When should the Transfer of Rights notification be initiated?

• A. Not later than the student's 17th birthday
• B. Not later than one year before the student turns 18
• C. Not later than the student turns 18
• D. At birth

Answer: (B)

Transferring rights happens when a student with a disability reaches the age at which they gain decision-making authority—typically 18 years old. To prepare for that shift, the required notice to parents (and, when appropriate, to the student) is given no later than one year before the student turns 18. This timing ensures families and the student have time to understand the rights that will transfer, participate in planning, and gradually take on more responsibility for decisions about services and supports in the IEP process.

Other timings don’t fit the rule. Notifying at birth would be far too early; notifying at the 17th birthday is still before the one-year window; and notifying exactly when the student turns 18 is too late to ensure proper planning and participation.