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    Vehicle Modifications

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    Get the NDIS Support for Learning to Drive

    Learning to drive marks a significant step towards independence for many individuals. You're in the right place if you wonder...
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    2023 Revised Edition of the Complete Guide to Driving with Disability

    Total Ability has recently launched the 2023 edition of its comprehensive guide, "Complete Guide to Driving with Disability," aiming to...
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    Complete NDIS Guide to Vehicle Modifications

    The NDIS does not provide funding for motor vehicles as they are not considered disability-related support.
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    The Ultimate Guide to Driving with Disability

    Driving with disability can be more challenging than the regular way. However, with the right resources and guidance, it's entirely...
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    Have The Nerve – YouTube Playlist

    If you aren't able to access our podcast, Have The Nerve, on a streaming service, access our podcast on our...
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    Assessing the NSW Fitness to Drive Medical Assessment

    The NSW Fitness to Drive Medical Assessment is anyone who drives and has a medical condition, illness or injury that...
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    Tips for Accessible Vehicle Modifications

    Advice from SCIA on what is involved in getting your vehicle modified, funding options and the steps to getting your...
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    Car modifications with Dan

    Watch Dan showcase his modified car and find out about the decisions he had to make
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    Learning to drive marks a significant step towards independence for many individuals. We will guide you through the process of obtaining NDIS support to help you hit the road with confidence.

    Is NDIS Support Available for Learning to Drive?

    Yes. Similar to other NDIS-funded services, you must demonstrate that learning to drive is reasonable and necessary for achieving your goals. Ensure that your NDIS plan includes a related goal about learning to drive.

    Getting a Learner’s License

    Before embarking on your driving journey, you’ll need to pass a driver knowledge test to obtain a learner driver’s license. You can access practice materials for your state, including:

    If you require assistance with practising or taking the test, getting your NDIS plan approved first is advisable. This will allow you to hire someone to support your learning process.

    Medical Fitness to Drive Assessment

    Once you’ve contacted an Occupational Therapist (OT) for further guidance, you may need to provide a medical assessment completed by your general practitioner or specialist. This assessment will also be submitted to the relevant governmental transport department, disclosing any medical conditions or disabilities that could affect your ability to drive safely.

    Based on different states, the information about medical fitness to drive assessment is available below:

    get the ndis support for learning to drive

    Occupational Therapy (OT) Driving Assessment

    Following your medical assessment, you might be recommended to undergo an off-road and on-road occupational therapist driver assessment.

    The off-road assessment involves a review of your medical and driving history and an evaluation of your physical and cognitive abilities for driving.

    The on-road assessment requires you to take the wheel under the supervision of your OT and a qualified rehabilitation driving instructor. During this evaluation, they will assess:

    • The necessity for specialised equipment or vehicle modifications.
    • Your usage of existing vehicle modifications, such as hand controls or other assistive devices.
    • Your vehicle control skills, physical capabilities, reaction time, situational awareness, and self-monitoring abilities.
    • Your knowledge of road rules.

    Based on both off-road and on-road assessments, your OT will provide recommendations, which may include:

    • Vehicle modifications or assistive technology.
    • Participation in a rehabilitation program before attempting your driving or riding test.
    • Specific driving lessons based on your unique requirements.

    NDIS and Driving Lessons

    The assessment results will outline the specific driving lessons you must undertake if deemed necessary. Like all NDIS supports, these driving lessons must be “reasonable and necessary” to achieve your goals. Therefore, your NDIS plan should include a goal related to learning to drive. Once your plan is approved, you’ll receive funding to cover OT driving assessments, vehicle modifications, lessons from a reputable driving school, and other essential steps to obtain your P-plate.

    Additionally, the embedded video below demonstrates the NDIS updates related to vehicle modifications and driving support, providing you with further information on the topic.

    Seek Assistance from Our NDIS Support Coordinators

    Our NDIS support coordination team is committed to providing a person-centred approach to assist our clients. If you have questions about finding a suitable occupational therapist, creating a realistic plan, or any other aspect of the process, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.

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