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OT Driving Assessments: Here’s What You Need To Know

Person in a pink floral top sits in the driver's seat of a car, smiling, with one hand on the steering wheel and the other resting on the door, ready for her OT driving assessment.

All of us deserve the independence of driving ourselves around. Unfortunately, changes in our mental and physical state can impact our driving. An Occupational Therapy (OT) driving assessment is a driving evaluation that checks if someone can drive safely and legally while ensuring the safety of others on the road.

If you have a disability, are an NDIS participant, or face medical challenges, this guide explains OT driving assessments, who needs them, and how they work.

A person sits in the car, gripping the steering wheel, while another beside them holds a notebook for an OT driving assessment.

Who needs an OT driving assessment?

You may need an Occupational Therapy (OT) driving assessment if:

  • You have a disability – Conditions affecting mobility, thinking, or senses may require car modifications to drive safely.
  • You have a medical condition – Conditions like stroke, epilepsy, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or dementia can impact driving.
  • You’re an older driver – Changes in vision, reaction time, or strength may require an assessment, even though age alone is not a condition.
  • You’re an NDIS participant – If you need car modifications or special driving lessons, an assessment helps access funding.
  • You’re recovering from injury or surgery – If your physical or thinking abilities have changed, an assessment may be needed before you drive again.
  • A doctor requests it – GPs or specialists may refer you if they believe your ability to drive is affected.

What is an OT driving assessment?

An OT driving assessment is done by an occupational therapist trained in driver safety. It checks your fitness to drive safely if you have a medical condition or disability. The driving evaluation looks at physical, mental, and vision skills and suggests any needed car modifications.

Conditions that will require OT driving assessments

There are many condition that may prompt the need for an occupational therapy driving assessment. Some of the most common include:

  • Neurological conditions – Stroke, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, epilepsy
  • Physical disabilities – Cerebral palsy, spinal injuries, amputations
  • Vision impairments – Glaucoma, macular degeneration
  • Cognitive or mental health conditions – Dementia, Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia, anxiety
  • Muscle and joint issues – Arthritis, limb weakness, post-surgery recovery
  • Complex medical cases – Chronic conditions like diabetes with nerve damage, long hospital stays

The process

Understanding how the process works will help you prepare and feel more relaxed about what to expect. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the typical process.

Pre-assessment preparation

  • Referral and medical info: The process often starts with a referral, typically from a GP, specialist, or healthcare provider. You’ll need to provide medical documentation detailing your condition and any treatments you’re undergoing.
  • Consultation with an occupational therapist: The OT service does a pre-assessment consultation to talk about your concerns, medical and driving history, or challenges you’re anticipating.
  • Licence check: Your licence is checked by the OT service to make that there are no suspensions or cancellations pending. As the assessment involves an on-road driving component, your licence must be current and active.

Step 1: Off-road assessment

The first part of an OT driving assessment happens off-road, usually at your home. The occupational therapist checks the following skills and abilities:

  • Cognitive function: Can you process information, follow directions, and make decisions quickly? This includes memory, attention, spatial awareness, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Physical abilities: Your strength, coordination, range of motion, and reaction time will be looked at to make sure you can physically control a vehicle to legal standards.
  • Visual and perceptual abilities: Vision tests may look at depth perception, peripheral vision, night vision, and the ability to recognise road signs or objects.
  • Medical impacts: The therapist evaluates how your specific medical condition affects your overall ability to drive.

This step may involve discussions, tests, and physical checks.

Step 2 – On-road assessment

After the off-road driving evaluation, most drivers go for an on-road assessment. This is where the occupational therapist observes your driving in a real-world setting.

Typically, your drive a dual-controlled car with an OT and a driving instructor. The on-road assessment looks at:

  • Your ability to follow road rules and respond to traffic conditions.
  • Safe operation of the vehicle, including steering, braking, and using mirrors.
  • Decision-making under normal and complex traffic situations.
  • The need for vehicle modifications (such as hand controls or steering aids) for people with physical limitations

Step 3 – Report and recommendations

After the OT driving assessment, the occupational therapist will provide a detailed report outlining their findings. If necessary, they will also offer recommendations. These might include:

  • Approval to keep driving.
  • Training recommendations for improving skills.
  • Car modifications if needed.
  • Driving restrictions (e.g., no night driving).
  • A referral for further medical tests if necessary.
  • Alternative transport options if driving is unsafe

NDIS support and funding

If you’re an NDIS participant, funding may cover the assessment, special driving lessons, and vehicle modifications.

Why should you get an OT driving assessment?

  1. Safety – It protect yourself and others.
  2. Independence – Stay on the road with proper support.
  3. Legal compliance – Meet licensing rules.
  4. NDIS access – Get support for modifications or training.
  5. Peace of mind – Know you are driving safely.

FAQ

Do I need to bring anything to the OT driving assessment?

What should I bring to the assessment?

  • A valid driver’s licence or learner’s permit.
  • Medical documents.
  • Any assistive equipment (e.g., glasses, prosthetics).

How long does the OT driving assessment take?
About two hours, including both off-road and on-road tests.

Will this affect my licence?
The OT’s report goes to the licensing authority, which makes the final decision on your licence.

Can I request a reassessment?
Yes. If your condition improves, you can ask for a new driving evaluation after speaking with your doctor.

Insurance for your modified vehicle

Depending on the disability you’re living with, you may need to adapt your car or get one that allows a wheelchair. Blue Badge Insurance is a specialised provider of disability converted cars, wheelchair accessible vehicle insurance and mobility equipment insurance. We also insure assistance dogs and companion animals.

Choosing Blue Badge Insurance means choosing a provider that understands your needs. PLUS Disability parking permit holders get up to 25% off their comprehensive car insurance premium. Get a quote below.

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