About This Calculator

This calculator helps determine the appropriate wage determination dates for federal and state construction projects. Understanding these dates is crucial for compliance with prevailing wage requirements.

Federal Wage Determination: Based on the bid opening date, this calculates the wage determination that was in effect 10 days prior to bid opening.

State Wage Determination: Based on the advertisement/solicitation date, this determines which state wage determination period applies, following the biannual schedule (February 22 and August 22 effective dates).

Federal Wage Determinations

Federal wage determinations establish the minimum wages, fringe benefits, and work conditions that must be paid to workers on federally funded projects. These rates are set by the U.S. Department of Labor based on the prevailing wages for specific labor classifications in defined geographic areas.

Resource: Federal Wage Determinations (SAM.gov)

California State Wage Determinations

For California public works projects, workers must be paid the prevailing wage as determined by the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR). These rates vary by craft, classification, and project location and are typically aligned with collective bargaining agreements.

Resource: State Wage Determinations (DIR.ca.gov)

Federal Wage Determination

State Wage Determination

Project Information

Helpful Resources

Federal and State Guidelines

Local Assistance Procedures Manual – Exhibit 12-G View PDF
Caltrans Labor Compliance dot.ca.gov
Caltrans LAPM View Manual

Compliance Agencies & Checklists

U.S. Department of Labor dol.gov
LCP Enforcement Forms & Resources dir.ca.gov
Caltrans Pre-Job Checklist (LCPtracker) View Checklist