The Freedom and Mobility staff understands the opportunities that are opened for an independent driver.   Teens with disabilities have the same desire to become independent and “get the keys” as their non-disabled peers.  (Some of our new drivers are not teens but as first time drivers have many of the same issues.) There are many special considerations with this population and our staff will assist teens and their parents through the process of determining if independent driving is a practical goal.  This includes assessing their level of disability, knowledge of the driving task and ability to take instruction, judgment and readiness (maturity).  Depending on the disability, there may be physical, visual or perceptual deficits that prevent the teen obtaining their goal.  Our Potential to Drive evaluation is geared towards identifying and differentiating problems that can be overcome from those that cannot.   Safety is our primary concern both for the teen and for the driving public.

If training to licensure is recommended our trainers will work one-on-one with the new driver presenting the material at a pace that meets their abilities.  Parents are asked to assist with practice when and where appropriate and guidance is given so that the same types of cues and techniques are carried over no matter who is supervising the practice.  Training includes specific preparation for the state road test such as parallel parking.

If on- road training is not recommended the family may still be given skills to practice to improve the new driver’s chances of pursuing a license in the future.

For those clients who need special equipment it is possible for the Freedom and Mobility staff to provide a modified vehicle for use at their state road test if they have not yet modified a vehicle for their use. 

A learner’s permit is not required for the evaluation but is required for training.  Our staff understands that in some cases the family does not wish to pursue a permit unless there is a good chance that the teen can eventually obtain a license.  The permit is required for training in part because it requires the teen to learn at least the basic information regarding road rules and signs and shows a commitment on their part. 

An on-line driver education course is available to satisfy Joshua’s Law. (see Training)

Licensure cannot be guaranteed by any school but if the goal is realistic; our staff will assist in any way to make it a reality.