The following is a list of the minimum requirements that must be met prior to being able to book in for an occupational therapy driving assessment:
1. License: You must have a current and valid driver’s license from the state in which you live. This may include a Class-C (car) license OR a valid learner’s permit. Licenses which have expired, or been cancelled or suspended are NOT valid. If you are unsure if your license remains current and valid, please contact the transport authority in your state.
2. Transport Authority Medical Forms:
QLD: If you live in QLD, the Dept. of Transport & Main Roads may require your doctor to fill out the ‘Medical Certificate for Motor Vehicle Driver’ form. Completion of this form is advised for any driver who have any medical condition which affects any aspect of their visual, physical, cognitive/executive, or psychological function.
You can obtain this form in person from a service centre, or by clicking HERE. You must take this form to your GP (or specialist in some situations) for completion. For those being referred for an occupational therapy driver assessment, there is a special condition on page 6 that restricts driving to only during the assessment or lessons.
**Please note: If you are unsure about whether you have to complete the ‘Medical Certificate for Motor Vehicle Driver’ form, contact the QLD Dept. of Transport & Main Roads, or contact us, for further advice.
NSW: If you live in NSW, when you notify the RMS of your medical condition, they may require your GP or specialist to complete the RMS ‘Medical Fitness to Drive Assessment’ Form. The RMS may post you this form, or you can pick one up in person from a Service NSW Centre. Your GP can also complete this form online. Once this form is completed you must return it to a Service NSW Centre.
3. Doctor’s Referral: A doctor’s referral letter is required to book an OT driver assessment, noting your medical history, medications, and any clinical concerns your doctor has about your driving. Your doctor can fax this directly to us on 07 5677 0269. In some specific cases, for example, if you are seeking an assessment to assist with pain management or ergonomics, we may not require a referral from your doctor. Give us a call to discuss.
4. Vision Assessment: IF you have a vision condition OR have had visual changes associated with your medical condition, you must obtain clearance from your vision specialist for driving. If you have not had changes to your vision a basic test with your GP is usually sufficient.
Please be aware that you will not be booked in for an OT driving assessment until these requirements have been met. Please give us a call for more information if needed.