Common Errors on the DAS 140 and How to Avoid Them

When it comes to securing apprenticeship opportunities in California, few documents are as important as the DAS 140 form. Designed to notify approved apprenticeship committees of a contractor’s intent to hire apprentices, the das 140 plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with state labor laws and supporting workforce development.

However, despite its significance, many contractors and employers make errors that can cause delays, result in non-compliance penalties, or even limit access to skilled labor. The good news? Most of these mistakes are completely avoidable with the right knowledge and attention to detail.

In this article, we’ll break down the most common errors made on the DAS 140, explain why they happen, and provide actionable tips to help you submit a flawless form every time.

Understanding the Purpose of the DAS 140

Before diving into the mistakes, it’s important to understand what the DAS 140 is designed to do. This form, issued by the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS), serves as official notice to apprenticeship programs that a contractor has been awarded a public works project and may need to hire apprentices.

It’s not just paperwork — it’s a compliance requirement. California law mandates that contractors working on public works projects valued at $30,000 or more must submit the DAS 140 within 10 days of contract award.

Failing to do so could lead to:

• Fines and penalties from the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR)
• Loss of good standing with apprenticeship committees
• Delays in staffing projects with qualified apprentices

Common Errors on the DAS 140 and How to Avoid Them

1. Missing the Submission Deadline

The error: One of the most frequent mistakes contractors make is submitting the DAS 140 late — or not at all. Since the form must be filed within 10 days of contract award, missing the deadline can immediately put you in violation.

Why it happens:

• Lack of awareness about the 10-day requirement
• Internal delays in receiving contract award notifications
• Miscommunication between project managers and administrative staff

How to avoid it:

• Establish an internal compliance checklist for public works projects
• Assign a dedicated compliance officer or administrative lead
• Automate reminders using project management software

2. Incomplete or Inaccurate Contractor Information

The error: Some contractors submit the DAS 140 with incomplete fields, outdated license numbers, or incorrect contact information.

Why it happens:

• Using old templates without updating company details
• Simple data entry mistakes
• Rushing to meet deadlines without reviewing the form

How to avoid it:

• Always verify your license number with the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) before submission
• Cross-check company name, address, and phone number with official records
• Review the form line-by-line before sending

3. Not Selecting the Correct Apprenticeship Program

The error: The DAS 140 requires contractors to send notification to approved apprenticeship committees in the project’s geographic area and trade. Selecting the wrong program — or failing to send the form to all applicable programs — is a major compliance issue.

Why it happens:

• Misunderstanding which programs apply to the specific trade
• Not researching all applicable committees in the county or region
• Confusing the DAS 140 with the DAS 142 (request for dispatch)

How to avoid it:

• Use the DIR’s list of approved apprenticeship programs by trade and county
• If unsure, contact the Division of Apprenticeship Standards for clarification
• Keep a database of frequently used apprenticeship committees for quick reference

4. Confusing the DAS 140 with the DAS 142

The error: Some contractors mistakenly think that submitting the DAS 142 (which requests dispatch of apprentices) fulfills the DAS 140 requirement.

Why it happens:

• Lack of training on the difference between forms
• Overlapping timelines in project start dates

How to avoid it:

• Remember: DAS 140 = Notification of intent; DAS 142 = Request for apprentices
• Submit the DAS 140 first, then follow up with the DAS 142 as needed
• Create separate internal templates for each form

5. Not Keeping Proof of Submission

The error: Even if you send the DAS 140 on time, failing to keep documentation can cause problems if your compliance is ever questioned.

Why it happens:

• Relying solely on email or fax without saving confirmation receipts
• Misplacing hard copies of submissions

How to avoid it:

• Always keep a digital copy and confirmation receipt for every DAS 140 sent
• Organize records in a central compliance folder accessible to your team
• Retain records for at least 3 years in case of audits

6. Leaving Out Project-Specific Details

The error: Missing key information like the awarding body, project name, or estimated start date can render the form incomplete.

Why it happens:

• Not having all project details at the time of submission
• Miscommunication between the project manager and compliance team

How to avoid it:

• Gather all project data before filling out the form
• Verify details with the awarding agency or project owner
• Use a pre-submission checklist to ensure nothing is missed

7. Sending to the Wrong Address or Contact

The error: Apprenticeship committees have designated mailing addresses, fax numbers, or email contacts for DAS 140 submissions. Sending it to the wrong person can mean it’s never officially received.

Why it happens:

• Using outdated contact lists
• Not confirming submission requirements with each committee

How to avoid it:

• Check the latest contact information for each apprenticeship program before sending
• Maintain an updated database of committee contacts
• Confirm receipt after submission via email or phone call

Best Practices for a Flawless DAS 140 Submission

Create a Compliance Calendar

Map out all compliance deadlines for each project, including DAS 140 and DAS 142 submissions.

Train Your Team

Provide ongoing training for your administrative and project management teams on DAS requirements.

Use Technology Wisely

Leverage project management software to set alerts, store templates, and track submissions.

Maintain Strong Relationships with Apprenticeship Committees

Regular communication with local apprenticeship programs can make the process smoother and faster.

Why Accuracy on the DAS 140 Matters

Submitting an accurate, timely DAS 140 isn’t just about avoiding penalties — it’s about showing professionalism, supporting the development of skilled workers, and maintaining your reputation in the construction industry. Errors on this form can lead to administrative headaches, delayed staffing, and even jeopardize your eligibility for future public works projects.

By understanding the common mistakes and following the preventative steps outlined above, you can ensure every DAS 140 submission strengthens rather than hinders your operations.

Conclusion

The DAS 140 is more than just a bureaucratic requirement — it’s a cornerstone of compliance for contractors on public works projects in California. Missing deadlines, providing incomplete information, or failing to notify the right apprenticeship committees can have serious consequences.

By proactively training your team, keeping accurate records, using updated contact lists, and implementing a clear compliance process, you can avoid costly mistakes and maintain good standing with the Division of Apprenticeship Standards. In the long run, taking the time to perfect your DAS 140 process not only protects your business but also contributes to the growth of a skilled and capable workforce — a win for your company, your apprentices, and the industry as a whole.