Medical Driving Assessments
What is a Medical Driving Assessment?
Our Occupational Therapists look at the impact of disability, illness or ageing on a person’s medical fitness to drive – making recommendations about if and when they can resume driving, as well as any conditions that might be placed on their licence to ensure their safety on the road.
It is not a driving licence test. It is confirmation of your driving ability. It is peace of mind.
Who should have one?
People are referred for any number of reasons. Common examples include:
Ageing
Head injury
Stroke
Dementia or Alzheimer diagnosis
Parkinson’s Disease
Staff needing clearance to Return to Work Driving
Anyone requiring a Commercial Driving Assessment - Heavy Vehicles
What is the difference between a medical driving assessment and a standard driving assessment?
This is a common question when people compare the cost of a medical driving assessment versus a standard driving assessment offered by driving schools.
The standard driving assessment is about improving your driving: if it’s been a while since you passed your test, if there have been rule changes, etc. It takes about 60 minutes and a driving instructor will make you aware of areas you need to improve on and help you with risk reduction strategies.
A medical driving assessment looks at the impact of an injury, disability or the ageing process on your ability to drive and your safety on the road. It is conducted by a specialist occupational therapist (OT), with some input from a driving instructor. The process involves an off-road assessment to check your physical, thinking and decision-making abilities and an on-road assessment checking your medical fitness to drive. The assessment takes 2-3 hours.
Essentials Checklist
What will I need?
A car - use your own, provided it is insured and roadworthy, or use the driving instructor’s car (for an additional fee)
Current licence
Relevant letters from your Doctor or the NZTA
Glasses, if required for driving
A list of any medication you are currently taking
