Chermside West Occupational Therapy Driving Assessment Industry Leaders
Helping Australians get back on the road safely
An Occupational Therapy Driving Assessment helps determine whether a person can drive safely following a medical condition, injury or change in mobility. When driving has started to feel uncertain, this assessment can help bring clarity for you and your family so day-to-day plans feel easier to manage.
At Physio Inq, our registered Occupational Therapists provide in-home and on-road driving assessments for people across Australia.
We understand that driving represents independence and connection. Our goal is to support each person to drive safely and confidently wherever possible or explore suitable alternatives when driving is no longer recommended.
How an Occupational Therapy Driving Assessment Works
An OT driving assessment looks at both the medical and functional aspects of driving. The process is designed to meet the requirements set by state and territory driver licensing authorities while focusing on the individual’s needs and goals. Rest assured that you’re supported through each stage with time to ask questions and understand what the results may mean for your routines.
Step 1: In-Home Clinical Assessment
Your OT visits you at home to review your medical history, mobility, vision, reaction time, cognition, and overall physical function. They’ll also discuss your driving history, usual routes, and vehicle setup.
If you have recent letters, test results, a medication list, or information from your treating doctor, having it nearby can make the conversation easier. You can also consider inviting a family member or support person to participate in the discussion to ensure you don't overlook any crucial details.
Step 2: On-Road Assessment
Wherever you are in Australia, your OT will conduct an on-road assessment with a qualified driving instructor in a dual-controlled vehicle. Together, they evaluate how your condition affects driving skills, such as steering, braking, lane changes, hazard response and decision-making.
The route is chosen to reflect real driving demands and the assessor can explain what is being observed in a way that’s simple to understand. Should you need a moment to pause or take a break, that can be discussed on the day.
Step 3: Recommendations and Reporting
After your assessment, your OT prepares a clear, detailed report for your GP and the relevant licensing authority. You’ll also receive practical recommendations that help you understand your options moving forward.
Depending on your results, your OT may support you with:
- Guidance on returning to driving safely, including whether vehicle modifications may improve comfort and control
- Recommendations for additional lessons or therapy to strengthen driving-related skills
- Support exploring alternative transport options that help you be more independent and connected to your community if driving isn’t suitable
Who Needs an OT Driving Assessment
You may benefit from an occupational therapy driving assessment if changes to your health, mobility or thinking skills have made driving more challenging or uncertain. Physio Inq network can provide this support through convenient in-home assessments.
- A neurological event such as stroke, brain injury or multiple sclerosis
- Physical changes due to amputation, arthritis or spinal injury
- Cognitive or perceptual changes such as dementia or intellectual disability
- Mental health conditions or medication that may affect driving
- Vision changes or other sensory impairments
Assessments are often requested by a GP, medical practitioner, insurer or licensing authority when a medical condition could affect driving safety. These assessments help support your safety and the safety of others on the road while providing clear guidance about your ability to continue driving.
How can an Occupational Therapist (OT) help?
Through your driving assessment and follow-up support, your Occupational Therapist helps you build safer driving skills, adapt to physical changes and work through licensing requirements with confidence. They can provide:
- A paced rehabilitation program that builds strength, coordination and driving-related skills in a way that suits your needs and daily routine
- Practical driving strategies and education that support awareness and safer decision-making on the road
- Guidance on vehicle modifications and equipment that may make driving more comfortable and easier to manage
- Access to a modified vehicle and direct support to attend a Roads and Maritime Service Disability Test
- Access to trial a range of vehicle modifications such as left-foot accelerator, hand controls, electronic brakes and accelerators, spinner knobs and satellite accelerators
- Step-by-step support with licensing requirements, including what paperwork is needed and what happens next
- Support communicating with insurers and funding bodies, including compensable third-party payers, to help reduce stress and paperwork
Occupational Therapy Driver Assessors assist in identifying when your abilities required to drive are impaired.
In-Home and Mobile Assessments Across Australia
If you’re looking for an occupational therapist, you can have a professional come straight to you.
In-home assessments are available in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, Tasmania and Western Australia. Our team coordinates with local driver-trained instructors for the on-road component. This makes the process easier for clients living in metropolitan, regional or rural areas.
We also offer telehealth consultations before or after the assessment where appropriate, helping participants, families and referrers stay informed and supported. This online setup is often used for questions, planning, and follow-up conversations when an on-road component is not required.
Research has shown that performing an Occupational Driver Assessment (OTDA) is the Gold Standard in assessing a person’s ability to drive.
An OTDAs has not only completed a degree in Occupational Therapy but also postgraduate studies in Driver Assessment.
If you would benefit from an Occupational Therapy Driving Assessment or have been informed you require one, Physio Inq can assist. Contact our Client Services Representatives today to discuss about booking an appointment.
NDIS and Funding Options
If you’re an NDIS participant, your occupational therapy driving assessment may be funded under your plan, particularly when driving supports independence or community access goals. In case funding is involved, we can clarify what information is usually needed and what documentation is provided after the assessment.
Physio Inq is a registered NDIS provider that caters to various areas in Australia.
We support participants, families and support coordinators through clear communication, quality reporting and timely service delivery. This can help reduce back-and-forth so you are not chasing updates across several parties. Assessments can also be arranged privately or through insurance schemes, DVA, or other funding bodies.
For advice on funding options or referral requirements, contact our team and we’ll guide you through the process.
Other Occupational Therapy services that Physio Inq is able to offer
- In-Home Occupational Therapy
- NDIS Occupational Therapy
- Paediatric Occupational Therapy
- Aged Care Physiotherapy
FAQs
1. Who can refer someone for a driving assessment?
Referrals can come from a GP, insurer, or directly from the individual. Most states require a doctor’s medical clearance before the assessment can take place. If you are unsure which referral pathway applies, our team can talk you through what is usually needed before you book.
2. How long does an OT driving assessment take?
Typically, around two to three hours in total, including both the clinical and on-road components. Complex cases may take longer, whether you’re being assessed by an OT Parramatta presents or an OT Maitland vouches for. When extra time is likely, this is usually discussed early so you can plan transport and other commitments.
3. Is the driving assessment covered by the NDIS?
Yes, in many cases. If driving relates to your NDIS goals or supports daily living, it may be covered under capacity building supports.
4. What happens if I don’t pass the assessment?
If driving is not considered safe, your OT will explain the reasons and discuss other transport options. Support can also be provided for rehabilitation or retraining.
5. Do you provide services outside major cities?
Yes. Physio Inq operates nationally, offering in-home and mobile assessments in metro, regional and rural areas. If these services are not available in your area, telehealth may be used for pre-assessment questions or follow-up discussions where appropriate.
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About Physio Inq's Care
- Strong history in home based care
- Over 200 clinical experts for occupational therapy
- A commitment to expediting referrals based on clinical needs
- Dedicated contact person for your business
- Access to multiple disciplines and services under one roof
- Large geographical coverage
- High quality reporting
- Experienced clinical staff
We are committed to providing our service In-Home wherever possible. From time to time, circumstances such as staffing, demand and availability may prevent this from occurring. In those instances, we will assist in arranging alternative service methods such as telehealth for Occupational Therapy.
At Physio Inq we can deliver high-quality and timely in-home and online Allied Health Services. Our Occupational Therapy Driving Assessment services are available in Chermside West and the surrounding areas:
- Acacia Ridge
- Albion
- Albion
- Alderley
- Algester
- Annerley
- Anstead
- Archerfield
- Ascot
- Ashgrove
