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Modified Driving Solutions is at the forefront of Occupational Therapy (OT) assessments related to driving in Sydney. We have been helping people under the NDIS to attain their driver’s licence for almost 10 years. Our staff are highly specialised and experience in this area, as well as offering a friendly, professional and considerate service. We understand that manoeuvring the NDIS, RMS Fitness to drive medical form and the legal considerations of learning to drive may be overwhelming and confusing for participants and their families, so we take special care to be as accommodating, fair and transparent as possible.
Understanding Intellectual Disability and Driving
Driving is a powerful symbol of independence and freedom. For people with intellectual disabilities, the journey to obtaining a driver’s license can be more intricate. Since 2017, Modified Driving Solutions has been supporting NDIS participants with intellectual disabilities learn to drive and achieve their driving goals.
Intellectual disability is defined by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviours, often affecting many everyday practical and social skills. These challenges usually appear in childhood and may impact an individual’s ability to learn, communicate, and navigate daily life. Despite these difficulties, many individuals with intellectual disabilities can drive with the appropriate support and modifications.
Modified Driving Solutions can help you!
While learning to drive with an intellectual disability may involve additional struggles, Modified Driving Solutions is committed to helping you with a personal and specialised approach to collaboration.
We offer the following services:
Driving Assessments and Driving Lessons
OT driving assessments are a pivotal part of the process when determining whether an individual has the necessary skills and abilities to drive safely. These assessments are required by the NDIS if a participant is wishing to apply for funding for driving lessons or vehicle modifications. The assessment process includes:
- Off-road assessments: Evaluating cognitive, visual, and physical abilities that could affect driving.
- On-road assessments: Practical driving tests in a dual-controlled vehicle to assess driving skills in a real-world environment.
The outcomes of these assessments inform the development of a customized driving plan. For people with intellectual disabilities, obtaining NDIS-funded driving lessons is often the main purpose of undertaking an OT driving assessment.
Following the assessment, the OT recommends a specific amount of driving lessons with a bespoke lesson plan. For example, they may recommend 20 hours of specialised driver training. Once the funding is approved by NDIS, a specialised driving instructor then works with the participant to work through the driving goals set. These cordial and helpful driving instructors have experience working with neurodiverse learners, ensuring they can conduct lessons that cater to the individual’s unique learning needs. This may involve a slower pace, increased repetition, and alternative teaching methods to ensure comprehension and retention of driving skills.
Vehicle Modifications
Some people with intellectual disabilities may also have accompanying physical issues that may impact on driving capacity. Vehicle modifications may be required to able individuals with physical disabilities to drive safely and to RMS standards. The NDIS can fund a variety of modifications to ensure that vehicles are accessible and suited to the driver’s needs. Common modifications include:
- Hand controls: For those who cannot operate foot pedals.
- Steering wheel adaptations: To assist individuals who have difficulty gripping or turning the wheel with both hands.
- Seating and transfer aids: To facilitate getting in and out of the vehicle. This may also include wheelchair loaders or toppers.
These modifications are tailored to the specific requirements of the individual, ensuring that the vehicle is both safe and practical for their use.
Mobility Redefined: What our satisfied clients say
Our team is incredibly proud to have promoted the driving safety and independence of thousands of NDIS participants. Some of these happy clients and their families share their experiences below:
Sandra, parent
“My son has always wanted to drive but we weren’t sure how to go about it. Matthew was very helpful and informative about the process, not just with the NDIS but also Service NSW and the medical side of his licence. He is now working towards getting his P’s”.
Noah, 25 years old
“Having cerebral palsy and in a wheelchair, I thought maybe driving was not possible for me. The staff not only went through the process very clearly, but also gave me the confidence and encouragement to continue with lessons. I now have by P’s licence in sight!”
Deborah, 58 years old
“I’ve driven since my teens with an intellectual disability but recently had a fall, and my doctor wanted an OT assessment before clearing me to drive again. I was so worried as I haven’t had a driving test in so long, but Matthew made it a positive and smooth experience.”
