A program to support autistic people or those with a mild Intellectual Disability (ID) to identify their capacity to drive and obtain their driver’s licence. 

Learner Driver Program (LDP) – What is it?

​A program to support autistic people or those with a mild Intellectual Disability (ID) to identify their capacity to drive and obtain their driver’s license.

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The LDP program identifies the young person’s strengths in relation to the complex task of driving a car, and the areas in which tailored interventions are needed to build capacity to drive.

 

Autism (ASD), Intellectual disability (ID) and driving

​Autistic people and those with an ID process information in a different way to neurotypical people. 

Prioritising visual information, visuo-motor coordination and planning ahead for example, are all skills that can be impacted by ASD and ID but are very necessary for driving.  Anxiety can also be a major inhibiting factor when learning to drive.

Our specifically trained OT Driver Assessors offer a neuro-affirming approach to assessment and capacity building for our autistic clients, and those with an ID as they learn to drive.

 

NDIS Funding

OT Driver Assessments are funded through the ‘Improved Daily Living’ budget.

We can also assist with applying for driving lessons with a Specialised Driving Instructor (DI).  Funded for lessons must be inserted as a quoted item within the ‘Capital’ budget, and can only be approved by NDIS following OTDA assessment.

 

Active One OT Driver Assessors:

• Are registered with VicRoads.

• Are specially trained to identify and work with a person’s individual needs in relation to learning to drive.

• Monitor progress in specialised driving lessons.

 

The process – 4 stages:

1 - Initial screening interview

2 - Off Road assessment (clinic-based)

            Medical and driving history.

            Physical, cognitive & visual assessments.

            Road law knowledge.

3 - Off Road assessment (car-based)

            Passenger activities.

4 - On Road assessment

            Evaluation of driving skills in a dual controlled vehicle.

            With both a Driving Instructor and OT Driver Assessor.

            Completed on a separate day.

5 - Reporting to VicRoads, OT Driver Assessor to seek NDIS funding for lessons if indicated.

 

Our OT Driver Assessors will then monitor progress in lessons and facilitate an On Road re-assessment for attainment of a probationary licence.