Tempe 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. 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.
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.
Step 2: On-Road Assessment
The OT conducts 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.
Step 3: Recommendations and Reporting
After the assessment, your OT provides a detailed report for your GP and the relevant licensing authority. This may include:
- Recommendations to resume driving with or without vehicle modifications
- Suggestions for additional lessons or therapy to improve driving capacity
- Advice on alternative transport options if driving isn’t suitable
Who Needs an OT Driving Assessment
An occupational therapy driving assessment may be required if you have experienced:
- 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 GPs, specialists, or licensing authorities when medical conditions could impact driving safety.
How can an Occupational Therapist (OT) help?
Through a driving assessment or rehabilitation program, and OT can provide:
- Graded rehabilitation programs tailored to suit all ages
- Defensive driving techniques and driver education
- Advice on vehicle modification and equipment installation
- 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
- Licensing support
- Advocacy and support with insurance schemes or compensable third-party payers
Occupational Therapy Driver Assessors assist in identifying when your abilities required to drive are impaired.
In-Home and Mobile Assessments Across Australia
Our Occupational Therapists come to you, wherever you live. In-home assessments are available nationwide, and 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.
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.
Physio Inq is a registered NDIS provider. We support participants, families and support coordinators through clear communication, quality reporting and timely service delivery. 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, specialist, insurer, or directly from the individual. Most states require a doctor’s medical clearance before the assessment can take place.
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.
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.
Make a Referral
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 Tempe and the surrounding areas:
- Ashbury
- Ashfield
- Balmain
- Balmain East
- Birchgrove
- Camperdown
- Croydon
- Dulwich Hill
- Enmore
- Haberfield
