New Drivers

New Drivers: Frequently Asked Questions

• Who benefits from this program?
  • Our program is designed to assist individuals with a variety of ability levels. Common diagnoses we see include autism, ADHD, anxiety, cerebral palsy, learning differences, brain injury, CVA, paraplegia, quadriplegia, and many more.
     
• How do I know if I/my child is ready for driving?
  • Daily living skills tend to translate to skills required to be successful drivers. Managing schedules, making own appointments, completing daily routines, and having success in job or student roles are good indicators of driving readiness. Check out the Readiness to Drive document. Motivation is key! If a parent/caregiver is the main source of motivation, driving success is less likely.
     
• What is the process like?
  • We begin with a driving evaluation which allows our practitioners to get to know the client’s strengths/weaknesses in order to better assist with treatment planning. Evaluations occur in our office located in Evansville, IN. They take approximately 2 hours to complete.
  • Training takes 20-30 hours on average to complete. Once training begins, it will typically occur on a recurring weekly schedule (for example, Tuesdays at 10 AM) each week until either licensing is achieved, or progress slows, and it is determined that driving is not recommended at this time. Training occurs in our vehicles for safety and usually occurs in the hometown of the client.
  • Generally, driver’s training is progressive in nature, meaning we begin in a low-traffic training area such as a parking lot or neighborhood, and increase in difficulty and skill as each individual masters the foundational aspects of driving. 
     
• What can I do to prepare?
  • Increase independence with daily tasks. Complete narrative driving. Become familiar with road signs. Review our New Driver Packet for other suggestions.
     
• What is the cost?
  • Completing our program for driving independence is a significant investment that is not commonly covered with insurance. State Vocational Rehabilitation Services is the most common funding source for individuals who qualify.