State Blind Services Directory

State Blindness Services

Find your state commission for the blind. Directory of vocational rehab, orientation and mobility training, and assistive tech programs.

Every US state has a designated agency providing free services to people who are blind or visually impaired. These agencies offer vocational rehabilitation, assistive technology training, orientation & mobility instruction, and independent living skills — typically at no cost to eligible individuals.

Who is eligible? Generally, anyone with a visual impairment that creates a barrier to employment or independent living. You do NOT need to be legally blind — many services are available for people with partial vision loss from IRDs.

How to apply: Contact your state agency by phone or visit their website. Most require a referral from an eye care professional (your ophthalmologist can provide this). Initial assessments are typically scheduled within 2-4 weeks.

Cost: Most services are provided at no cost. Some states have an order of selection (waiting list) during budget constraints — apply early, even if your vision loss is still mild.

Showing of state agencies

What to Expect When You Apply

Initial Contact

Call or submit an online application. You'll be assigned a VR counselor who specializes in visual impairments. Have your eye doctor's contact information ready.

Eligibility Determination

Your counselor reviews medical documentation (your ophthalmologist provides this). Most IRD diagnoses qualify. The agency determines if your vision loss creates a barrier to employment or independent living.

Comprehensive Assessment

An evaluation of your current skills, vision, goals, and needs. May include assistive technology assessment, functional vision evaluation, and orientation & mobility screening.

Individualized Plan

You and your counselor develop an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) or Independent Living Plan. This outlines specific services, goals, timelines, and responsibilities.

Service Delivery

Services begin: assistive technology training, orientation & mobility lessons, job placement support, adjustment counseling, or other identified needs. Duration varies by plan.

Common Services Available

Assistive Technology Training

Learn screen readers (JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver), magnification software (ZoomText), and adaptive devices. Equipment may be provided at no cost.

Orientation & Mobility

White cane training, safe travel techniques, public transportation navigation, and environmental awareness from certified O&M specialists.

Vocational Rehabilitation

Job placement, resume assistance, interview coaching, workplace accommodations, and employer education about visual impairments.

Independent Living Skills

Cooking, cleaning, personal organization, money management, and other daily tasks adapted for vision loss.

Adjustment Counseling

Emotional support and coping strategies for adapting to vision loss. Individual and group counseling available.

Business Enterprise Program

Training and support to operate vending facilities, snack bars, or cafeterias in government buildings (Randolph-Sheppard Act).

Transition Services (Youth)

For students 14-24: pre-employment skills, college preparation, summer programs, and mentoring with blind professionals.

Assistive Technology Loan Programs

Many states offer equipment loans for evaluation, or low-interest financing for purchasing assistive technology.

Need Help Getting Started?

If you're unsure which services you need or how to apply, start with our assistive technology guides or connect with a specialist who can help coordinate your care.

Low Vision Resources

Practical strategies and tools for daily living with reduced vision.

Assistive Technology

Setup guides for screen readers, magnifiers, and other assistive devices.

Find a Specialist

Connect with rehabilitation specialists and low vision centers.