Driving is most certainly a necessity for many people, if not everyone. Public transportation is not available in many rural areas and being able to drive can give you the ability to get to where you need to go. But what if you are differently abled? Can you still get a driver’s license?
Although the rules vary from state to state, adaptive or assisted driving is available for those who need it. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) states that if someone with a disability is able to pass the driver’s license tests, they have to be given a license to drive.
What Are the Guidelines for Differently Abled People?
The ADA protects those who are differently abled from being discriminated against for public services like driving a motor vehicle.
Under the law, the motor vehicles department cannot deny anyone a driver’s license just because of a disability. Even though states can have their own sets of laws or rules, those with differing abilities should be issued a driver’s license if they can pass the test.
In most cases, a driver’s license will be issued with a restriction based on the individual’s limited:
- Mobility,
- Hearing, or
- Vision
The license may also state that certain controls or modifications must be used for the individual to drive. For example, a driver may need a set of hand controls if they are unable to use the brakes and accelerator pedals. Some other adjusted vehicle requirements could include:
- A lift to get in and out of the vehicle,
- Hand grips,
- Transfer board,
- Steering wheel spinner knobs,
- Easy shifting controls,
- Power steering,
- Power locks,
- Power seats, or
- Power windows.
Although not everyone with a disability can drive, those who want to should be given the chance to pass the test.
There are steps you may have to take to get your license if you are differently abled though.
Talk to Your Doctor
Your doctor is the best one to tell you if you can drive or not. In fact, you will likely have to provide a physician’s statement to be able to take the driver’s license test. The examinations you have to pass may include:
- Mental health,
- Ability to make decisions,
- Your reaction time,
- Vision,
- Range of motion,
- Flexibility,
- Dexterity,
- Coordination, and/or
- Muscle strength.
Any modifications to your vehicle will also have to pass a test with the driver’s license bureau in your state.
You will have to show that you understand how to and can physically use them properly. You can get help from your doctor or physical therapist to learn how to use these modifications.
The driver’s license bureau or your doctor may also provide you with a driver rehabilitation specialist
What is a Driver Rehabilitation Specialist?
A driver rehabilitation specialist is trained to help differently abled people learn how to operate a motor vehicle. They will know what support or special modifications you may need.
In fact, you may have to get written documentation that you have worked with a specialist before taking the driver’s license test. Some of the duties that the driver rehabilitation specialist may perform are:
- Talking to your doctor and therapists to determine if you are ready and able to drive,
- Making sure your vehicle matches your particular needs,
- Helping you determine what modifications may be needed, and
- Performing driving and verbal assessments.
What Steps You Have to Take to Get a License
Just like with the typical driver’s license tests, there are guidelines and rules you have to follow before taking the examinations. Certain driver’s license testing stations may have special trained testing officers to perform the examinations. Some of the guidelines are as follows:
You Have to Be at Least 16 Years Old
The minimum age to get a driver’s license is 16. However, those who have a disability living allowance may be able to start taking lessons at 15 years of age. Many states require you to take a certain number of driving classes before taking the driver’s license examination as well.
Your Vehicle Has to Accommodate Your Needs
The vehicle you are taking the test in has to be equipped with whatever modifications you are required to have. There are state and federal laws that have to be followed and the state laws vary depending on where you live.
However, the main thing is that the vehicle you are taking the test in has to be designed or adapted to your individual needs. Here are some of the requirements:
- A push-button ignition for those with limited hand mobility,
- A touch screen to control the wipers and signals, if needed,
- Hand controls for the gas and brakes, if needed,
- A transfer board for those in a wheelchair,
- A leg lifter if you need help getting your legs in the vehicle,
- Special hand grips inside your vehicle,
- Recessed seatbelts,
- A lift to get your wheelchair into the vehicle, and
- Your vehicle has to have the cargo capacity to carry the equipment you need such as a wheelchair.
You Have to Pass the Written Test
The written test is a multiple-choice questionnaire that usually has about 20 questions.
Depending on your disability, you will be offered a test that you are able to take. You may be given a verbal test if you have limited vision or you can use a computer if you have limited mobility of your hands.
To pass this test, you need to become familiar with all of the state’s driving laws. Each state has a book or information online that you can study.
There Are Three Special Laws to Know
Even though each state has its own laws, the federal government has a set of laws and regulations that each state has to follow. Some laws provide certain exceptions for those who are differently abled while others pertain to the vehicle equipment.
The Americans with Disabilities Act
The ADA was passed in 1990 to protect individuals who are differently abled against public service and employment discrimination. Some of the rules include:
- Handicapped parking must be available in public buildings,
- Wheelchair ramps must be provided in all public buildings, and
- Handicapped parking spaces must be at least eight feet in width with an eight-foot loading zone next to the space.
State Motor Vehicle Laws
Any driver who can pass the tests with reasonable accommodations cannot be denied a driver’s license no matter their disability. However, you must let the driver’s license office know of your disability before taking the examinations. For example, if you have limited vision or hearing, you have to notify the examiner before taking the tests.
Vehicle Modification Laws
Some states allow certain things that other states do not. For example, spinner knobs on the steering wheel are illegal in some states. The spinner can sometimes make driving more dangerous if it is not used correctly. It is also illegal to install hand controls on a vehicle with a manual transmission.
In addition, the modifications must be made by a certified vendor. You will have to follow whatever rules your state has set in place as long as they comply with federal laws.
Why Do You Need a Driver’s License?
While not everyone needs a driver’s license, it is important for everyone to be able to get around from place to place. This way you are not restricted from getting to work or to doctor’s appointments.
Because of the advancing technology, it is becoming easier for those who are differently abled to work in all types of jobs. Being able to drive is sometimes the only way you can get back and forth to those jobs.
Everyone should have the freedom of being able to get where they need to go.