About JRI's Driver Evaluation and Training Program

Combined with specialized training, the Driver Evaluation and Training Program at the JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute (JRI) in central New Jersey is designed to meet the unique needs of disabled individuals. The primary goal of the state-certified program is to help these individuals become more independent by teaching and equipping them to drive safely to work, school or social and recreational events.

Current research indicates that many physically challenged people can become competent, safe drivers when given the proper instruction. This instruction should include comprehensive evaluation by physicians and occupational therapists, as well as specialized training by instructors who are experts in teaching physically challenged drivers.

JRI's program includes pre-driver evaluation, on-the-road evaluation, on-the-road training, instruction in the use of adaptive equipment, and when appropriate, assistance in preparing for and taking the NJ state driver's license test.

Who Should Enter the Program

JRI's Driver Evaluation and Training Program serves clients who have acquired a disability through illness or injury including physical, visual, or cognitive impairments. These may include clients who have suffered a stroke, traumatic head or spinal cord injury, amputations or those with multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease or a hearing impairment. 

Our program also evaluates clients who have age-related changes to determine if they are able to maintain safe driving skills; adolescents with cerebral palsy or spina bifida who may require special equipment; and those with developmental or learning disabilities who require specialized training. 

The JRI Driver Evaluation and Training Program is led by an occupational therapist who is trained and certified in driver rehabilitation. Our therapist understands the critical demands of driving and how the ability to drive independently affects an individual's quality of life. 

To enter the program, a prescription from a physician and a valid driver's license or learner's permit are required. 

Pre-Driver Evaluation

All clients receive a pre-driver evaluation by a licensed occupational therapist.  The therapist assesses each client's visual, perceptual, cognitive, functional and physical skills, including reaction time. Recommendations regarding the need for adaptive equipment and additional skills training are based on the results of the evaluation.

On-the-Road Evaluation

When the pre-driver evaluation indicates a need for further assessment, a licensed driving rehabilitation specialist provides on-the-road evaluation of clients. This evaluation is used to assess safe driving skills in various traffic environments, as well as basic driving skills while using the appropriate adaptive driving equipment. Evaluations can range from one to five hours, depending on the diagnosis and level of impairment. A valid driver's license or permit is required.

On-the-Road Training

Based on the results of the pre-driver and on-the-road evaluations, the driving instructor will design and implement an individualized driver training plan suited to each client's specific needs. The duration of the training period varies according to each client's progress.

Acquiring Adaptive Equipment

Any client who requires adaptive equipment in order to operate a motor vehicle is required to complete a road test at the Motor Vehicle Commission once his or her training is complete. This will enable the client to obtain a license restriction certifying that he or she is able to safely control the vehicle with the equipment present.

Recommendations for adaptive equipment may include: 

• Hand-controlled gas and brake systems
• Spinner knobs for steering
• Left foot accelerator

For More Information

To register for JRI's Driver Evaluation and Training Program, refer a client, or receive more information, please call 732- 321-7056.