Occupational Therapy Driving Evaluation Process

April is OT Appreciation Month. And, I am SO proud to be a part of the OT community. This vocational calling is a huge privilege.

As I do this work, I often get asked what the evaluation process looks like for someone who wants to drive again. It feels scary and intimidating and, frankly, the client is often trying to self-determine if they will pass or fail the test. And many times patients are afraid to ask because they fear they will be judged. 

I always want the client to feel comfortable and at ease with me, so I help them understand the evaluation process thoroughly.

There are three parts to my driving evaluation:

Step 1: Clinical testing of sensation, vision, movement, & thinking.

Step 2: A behind-the-wheel assessment in a driving rehab vehicle.

Step 3: Discussion of outcomes.

The evaluation isn’t scary. It’s an honest, objective assessment of where a driver has strengths and weaknesses. When we know these things, we can rehab them properly!