Many Autistic people can and do obtain their driver’s licenses and drive safely. According to research conducted at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), two-thirds of 15- to 18-year-old Autistic adolescents without intellectual disability are currently driving or planning to drive. Here are some points to consider before beginning a driver’s education program:
Are they ready? Think about and evaluate communication skills, ability to follow directions, stress management, motor skills, memory, attention, and reaction time.
- Individualized training: Specialized driving instructors with experience working with Autistic individuals can provide tailored guidance.
- Sensory-Friendly environment: Create a sensory-friendly learning environment by practicing in a quiet, controlled space initially. Introduce driving gradually, starting with parking lots and quiet streets.
- Utilize state-level services for financial support, such as DVR for drivers who require additional assistance, time, or specialized instruction.
For more information on specialized driver’s instruction, contact the following from Autism United’s Resource Directory:
United Driving School (414) 881-0010
3055 N Brookfield Rd Brookfield, WI 53045
Dedicated to providing an exceptional learning experience for both new and experienced drivers. With a focus on building confidence and ensuring success, the school’s instructors, particularly Jeet, have received rave reviews for their patience, professionalism, and expertise. Students appreciate Jeet’s ability to simplify complex driving maneuvers and offer practical tips, making the learning process enjoyable and effective.
Key Highlights:
- Highly knowledgeable and patient instructors.
- Personalized lesson plans tailored to individual needs.
- Successful first-time passing rates on driving tests.
- Flexible scheduling and convenient pick-up options.
- Supportive environment that fosters confidence in learners.
Adaptive Driving Specialists, Inc (414) 721-8636
7947 S 61st St Franklin, WI 53132
Brian and Laurie Misslich
adaptivedrivingllc@gmail.com
Adaptive Driving is currently the only driving school owned by an Occupational Therapist that specializes in working with clients that have disabilities in Wisconsin. They work with many clients that are supported by the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation in WI. If the consumer qualifies, the DVR can help to financially support people learning how to drive so that they can get a job.
Services offered include:
- Evaluation of driving abilities after a media event or change in mental status
- Training in use of adaptive equipment
- Instructing new drivers/refreshing driving skills
- Preparing for DMV Road Test
Adolescent Autonomy/Skills Checklist: Adolescent Autonomy Checklist revised.docx
Reach out to Adaptive Driving Specialists or Autism United for pamphlets/more tips on ADHD/ADD and driving, reducing driver anxiety or teaching someone to drive
Employment Resources, Inc (ERI) (855) 401-8549 or (608) 246-3444 (main)
2701 International Lane, Suite 201, Madison WI 53704
Sarah Schroeder, Driving Services Specialist
Ages 15+
The ERI offers pre-driving assessments at their office on the east side of Madison. They work with individuals with a range of different driving experiences, including no experience at all. It is not necessary to have taken a driver’s education course to complete this assessment.
The pre-driving assessment is a single appointment that uses a simulator made up of a computer with three screens and a “dashboard” set up to give a car-like experience. The assessment itself starts with very basic lessons (getting in and out of a vehicle safely, buckling a seatbelt, etc.) and slowly moves into more “advanced” lessons – starting the engine, using the pedals, shifting gears, safely moving off onto the road, etc. These are all done through brief computer program lessons. The assessment measures things such as reaction times, concentration, memory, etc. This produces data that can be used to see if an individual is within the “expected” ranges.
After the assessment, they will put together a report that will be available within a few weeks after the scheduled assessment. They are not occupational therapists or driver’s education instructors, so the appointment does not involve any specific driving training or recommendations about someone’s readiness to drive. They provide a written report of the data, which will serve as a supportive tool to determine the next steps in driving.
ERI works with a variety of funding services. The cost of the assessment is approximately $650 (CCS is different). Must have an authorization and fiscal agent details to provide services.
Some of the funding sources include:
- Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)
- Children Long Term Support (CLTS in all Wisconsin counties)
- Long Term Care (IRIS, My Choice, and others)
- Comprehensive Community Services (CCS in Dane County)
- Private pay
There is a short waiting list. Currently scheduling pre-driving assessments for October.
If you are interested, please contact ERI and get on the waiting list. If using any of the programs or funders mentioned above, ERI will need to coordinate with them directly to complete the referral process.
Other statewide resources:
Community Mobility and Predriving Assessments | Aurora Health Care
Wisconsin DMV Official Government Site – Teen drivers how to apply
Class D Instruction | Find A Driver Training School
Adaptive Driving Instruction | The Master’s Driving School
Here is a grant opportunity for all teens in WI who may qualify. Apply early as these grants go fast!
