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Specialist occupational therapy

OT driving assessments for a safe, informed return to the road.

A comprehensive assessment of how injury or a health condition may affect driving, completed by a driver-trained occupational therapist and—where an on-road assessment is required—an accredited driving instructor.

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At a glance

The assessment commonly includes an off-road clinical component and an on-road practical component in a dual-control vehicle.

What is an OT driving assessment?

Driving is a complex everyday activity that relies on physical, visual, cognitive and self-monitoring skills. An OT driving assessment examines how a person’s injury or health condition affects those skills and their practical driving performance.

The aim is to provide clear, evidence-informed recommendations about safe driving, rehabilitation, vehicle modifications or alternative transport options. Transport for NSW retains responsibility for licensing decisions.

Who may benefit?

  • People preparing to return to driving after a motor vehicle accident
  • Drivers whose physical, cognitive, visual or sensory abilities have changed
  • People who may need vehicle modifications or adaptive driving equipment
  • Drivers requiring practical assessment, retraining or confidence-building
Assessment debrief

What the process involves.

The exact pathway is tailored to the person and the referral question. Medical clearance and other documentation may be required before an on-road assessment.

01

Referral & preparation

We review the referral, driving history, medical information and any Transport for NSW requirements, then confirm what documentation is needed.

02

Off-road assessment

An interview and clinical assessment may consider vision, physical abilities, cognition, judgement, reaction time, road-law knowledge and insight.

03

On-road assessment

Where required, the person drives in a dual-control vehicle with an accredited driving instructor and a driver-trained OT observing practical performance.

04

Debrief & recommendations

The OT explains the findings and may recommend unrestricted driving, conditions, lessons, rehabilitation, vehicle modifications, reassessment or alternative transport.

05

Report & next steps

A written report addresses the referral question and outlines practical next steps for the person, referrer and relevant authority.

OT driving assessment

Discuss a referral with COH Rehab.

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