What is an OT Driving Assessment and Why is it Needed?

An Occupational Therapy (OT) Driving Assessment is a comprehensive evaluation designed to determine a person's ability to drive safely and independently. Conducted by a qualified occupational therapist with specialised training in driver assessment and rehabilitation, this assessment considers a person’s physical, cognitive, visual, and psychosocial abilities in the context of driving.

OT driving assessments are often recommended for individuals who have experienced a medical condition, injury, disability, or age-related changes that may impact their driving skills. This includes conditions such as stroke, dementia, brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, vision loss, or anxiety.

The assessment typically includes:

• A clinical off-road assessment (covering vision, cognition, reaction time, motor skills, and more)

• A practical on-road assessment with a qualified driving instructor

Why is it important?

Driving is a complex task that requires quick decision-making, physical coordination, and full awareness of one’s environment. An OT driving assessment helps:

• Ensure road safety for the driver and others

• Support medical fitness-to-drive decisions

• Identify any modifications, retraining, or supports that can assist someone to return to or continue driving safely

If you're unsure about your own or a loved one’s driving ability due to health changes, an OT driving assessment provides a clear, evidence-based recommendation and peace of mind.

What is the cost?

The cost for an OT Driving Assessment is:

• NDIS Participants: The assessment is billed at 10 hours under your plan, at the standard OT rate.

• Private Clients: A flat rate of $1,500 applies. Please note that Medicare and private health rebates are not available for this service.

The use of a disability-trained Driving Instructor and Test Vehicle is a separate business to Mind Life Clinic and a requirement of the OT Driving Assessment. This attracts an additional fee of approximately $320.

How do I book?

Before we can proceed, VicRoads requires a recent medical review by your General Practitioner (GP) or specialist to determine if a driving assessment is appropriate. Please book a long consultation with your GP or specialist and request they complete the VicRoads Medical Report for Driver Assessment.

Your GP will submit this report to VicRoads for review. Once received, VicRoads may take 2–4 weeks to review the medical report and issue written approval for the OT assessment to proceed.

If you have received the VicRoads "Request for occupational therapy driving assessment" letter, you can proceed to request an assessment by completing the details on the below form.

Need further information?

See below fact sheets prepared by VicRoads / Transport Victoria for further information on the processes involved. A link to the website is also provided.