Comprehensive Driving Evaluations

Occupational Therapists Do the Work

Occupational therapists are uniquely qualified to conduct comprehensive driving evaluations. Specially trained occupational therapists are qualified to evaluate your driving and involve the team of professionals required to address your needs.

Why An Occupational Therapist?

Because occupational therapists are trained to conduct comprehensive driving evaluations, they’re uniquely qualified to work with you to develop a plan to continue driving – or prepare you to transition from driver to passenger when the time comes.

Specifically, occupational therapists:

• Have the education and training in driving rehabilitation necessary to perform a full evaluation.
• Recognize the impact of your aging, overall health, disabilities or risk factors on the ability to drive.
• Are qualified to make clinical assessments of vision, cognition, motor performance, reaction time, and knowledge of traffic rules, as well as provide a behind-the-wheel assessment of your driving skills.
• Can recommend vehicle modifications and provide driver retraining.
• Can refer you to other professionals for additional training, such as a licensed driving instructor.
• Are trained to recommend a certified installer to address your vehicle modification needs.
• Are qualified to interpret the results of your tests.
• Have additional training and expertise in driving rehabilitation; they have obtained the credentials required to offer driving evaluations in your state; and most are certified by the Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (ADED) or the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).

How Will I Know Which Occupational Therapist Is Right for Me?

Before you make an appointment, talk with the occupational therapist. Ask every question that’s on your mind, such as:

• What testing is done and how is it done?
• What experience does the occupational therapist have with driving evaluations?
• Does he or she have any special training or credentials in driving evaluation?
• What does the evaluation cost?

For a list of questions to ask when selecting an evaluation program, view our printable checklist.

To find an occupational therapist in your area, go to the American Occupational Therapy Association's website.

To read more about

• Are Your Driving Skills as Good As They Could Be?
• What Happens During a Driving Evaluation?

For more information about comprehensive driving evaluations, download or order your free copy of Your Road Ahead: A Guide to Comprehensive Driving Evaluations.