Frequently Asked Questions

 

Are DriveABLE assessments administered by a computer?

No. A DriveABLE certified assessor guides the patient through each assessment tasks. Although the tests are presented on a computer, no computer experience is necessary to pass.  All tasks are explained thorougly before the assessment takes place and practice is given to ensure the patient understands what they are to do.  All that is required is simply to touch the screen or push a button in order to respond.  It is no more difficult than being asked to touch an "X" drawn on a piece of paper. Computer presentation enables precision measurement, objectivity & automated scoring.


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How long does the DriveABLE assessment take?

The office based assessment takes about 40 to 60 minutes, depending on how challenging the client finds the assessment tasks. For many clients this is all the assessment that will be required. You will be informed if an on-road evaluation is also necessary to further clarify driving competence.  On road evaluations require 45 - 60 minutes.

How long does it take to get the assessment results?

The report is generally available two working days after the assessment has been performed.  The report will be sent to the referring health professional.  Clients are advised to schedule an appointment to discuss the results of their assessment.


Who can administer the DriveABLE test?

The in office assessment may be performed by Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Speech Therapists, Nurses, Social Workers, OT Assistants, Psychometrists and other qualified professionals who are DriveABLE trained and certified.  All assessors are required to complete the DriveABLE training program, be supervised in administration of the assessment and pass a competency test before being accredited.  The on road evaluation is performed by experienced driver assessors who have received specialised training and certification through DriveABLE

Can patients be reassessed?

Yes.  The ability to reassess allows the healthcare professional to closely monitor the patient’s progress in a treatment program or monitor decline where there is a progressive illness.

Who can be assessed through DriveABLE?

Drivers of all ages who have cognitive decline due to medical conditions, medications or due to natural decline. For a description of such conditions see our red flag list.

Is a standard government entry-level road test appropriate to assess and identify a medically impaired driver?

No. The standard road test was not designed to evaluate medically impaired drivers. Safe drivers may be unfairly penalized and unsafe drivers may be missed.

Can I drive to my appointment?

No. We ask that you not drive yourself to the assessment. Please have someone drive you or use alternate transportation.

What do I need to bring?

Please bring your current drivers licence, hearing aid and glasses if necessary for reading or driving. If you do not have a current licence please contact us so that we can organise a temporary licence for you.

Will you take my license away?

No. Any final decisions about licensing will be made by the local government licensing authority.  The DriveABLE test will provide your doctor with a recommendation about continued driving based on your performance in comparison to healthy, competent drivers your own age.

Can I use my own vehicle for the assessment?

No. For insurance and safety the on-road assessment uses a car with an automatic transmission and dual brake.  Your evaluator will make sure that you are orientated to the vehicle before your road test.  Please feel free to ask them any questions that you might have before the test begins.

Can I take the assessment without a valid license?

No. If your license is invalid, a temporary permit will be required for testing purposes. Please contact your local DriveABLE™ provider for more information.

I am not used to city driving will that cause me to fail?

No. Your driving assessor will direct you through the road test.  Instructions and directions are clear and easy to understand. The DriveABLE On-Road Evaluation looks at skills that are used in both urban and rural situations. Research has shown that rural drivers and urban drivers both perform similarly on the evaluation.

Does age have any bearing on the assessment?

No. The assessment was designed so that age is not an issue.


How much does it cost?

Cost for the assessment can vary in different areas. In most areas fees are assumed by the patients. Click here for fee schedules