My DD will be 16 in a few weeks and is eligible for a Learner’s Permit. She has been in sensory OT the last few months and I’ve seen an improvement in getting overwhelmed by too much sensory input which is great. She’s always been concerned about whether her slow processing speed might impact her as a driver, though.

The other day a friend told me about an autism specific driver’s education program that involves an OT evaluation and work with “a driving rehab specialist” to look at how any deficits might affect judgement and reaction time in driving situations. Apparently the testing involves things like reaction time, peripheral vision, balance, strength, color recognition, etc. The rehab specialist then works on compensation strategies.

DD is NOT on the spectrum but has much crossover concerns (most notably sensory issues and slow processing speed) so I never know if these sort of programs are appropriate for her.

Anyone have a kid with processing issues get their driver’s license? Any special driver’s training utilized? Does this sound like something worth pursuing? It’s a few hundred dollars but I would consider it money well spent if it keeps her - and others - safer in the road. She is incredibly safety conscious but, of course, has no control over neurological deficits that cause problems...

Any and all input appreciated. TIA