Why might I be referred?
A GP, specialist, insurer or Transport for NSW may request an OT driver assessment when a medical condition, injury or disability could affect driving. People also seek guidance when returning to driving after a motor vehicle accident, neurological condition, surgery or a significant change in function.
The assessment is not designed to punish or surprise the driver. Its purpose is to understand current abilities, identify manageable risks and recommend the safest practical next step.
For a CTP or WorkCover referral, view COH Rehab’s OT driving assessment service.
Documents to organise before the appointment
- current driver licence and contact details
- GP or specialist referral and relevant medical information
- Transport for NSW letters or forms
- glasses, hearing aids or other aids normally used for driving
- details of existing vehicle modifications or adaptive equipment
- claim number and written insurer approval for funded referrals
Requirements vary. Confirm the documents needed for your specific referral before attending.
The off-road assessment
The off-road component explores abilities relevant to driving. Depending on the referral question, the occupational therapist may consider vision, movement, strength, coordination, cognition, perception, attention, judgement, reaction time, road-law knowledge, driving history and insight into limitations.
The on-road assessment
When an on-road component is required, the person drives in a suitable dual-control vehicle. A driver-trained occupational therapist observes how the injury or health condition affects practical performance, while an accredited driving instructor provides the vehicle and driving-instructor support.
Debrief, report and possible outcomes
The OT explains the findings and prepares a report addressing the referral question. Recommendations may include return to driving, conditions, lessons, driving rehabilitation, vehicle modifications, further medical review, reassessment or alternative transport. Transport for NSW makes the final licensing decision.
Check the official NSW driving-assessment guidance
Preparing for an insurer-funded assessment
For a CTP or WorkCover referral, have the claim number, insurer contact, referral question and written funding approval available. Check which assessment components and costs have been approved. For referral and funding enquiries, see COH Rehab’s OT driving assessment service.
Start an OT driving assessment referral
See how this assessment fits into your rehabilitation plan.
Frequently asked questions
Is an OT driving assessment the same as a driving test?
No. An OT driving assessment focuses on how an injury, disability or medical condition affects safe driving. Transport for NSW is responsible for licensing decisions and any required driving test.
Do I need medical clearance before the on-road component?
Medical clearance or other documentation may be required depending on the health condition, licence status and Transport for NSW requirements. Confirm the required documents before the appointment.
Does every assessment include an on-road drive?
No. The pathway depends on the referral question and the person’s circumstances. When an on-road component is required, it is completed with a driver-trained occupational therapist and an accredited driving instructor in a suitable dual-control vehicle.
What is assessed off road?
The OT may consider driving and medical history, vision, movement, strength, coordination, cognition, perception, attention, judgement, reaction time, road-law knowledge and insight.
What happens after the assessment?
The OT discusses the findings and prepares a report. Recommendations may include return to driving, lessons, rehabilitation, vehicle modifications, conditions, further medical review, reassessment or alternative transport.
Who makes the final licence decision?
Transport for NSW makes licensing decisions. The occupational therapist provides assessment findings and recommendations relevant to fitness to drive.