The Specialised Driving Instructor (SDI) is a Driving Instructor with the added experience of working with people with disability.
They have driving modifications fitted to their vehicle and can instruct you on how to use this equipment.
You may need to liaise with more than one instructor to find the one who has the equipment you want to drive with and the personality/ communication style that you feel comfortable with.
Driving instructors specialising in disability are available throughout the country (Australia and New Zealand) and have sedan type vehicles fitted with a range of hand controls, from standard spinner knobs to the Satellite Accelerator, Trigger Accelerator and Ergonomic Radial.
Instructors are trained to work with drivers that have ranging disabilities that may or may not require vehicle modification. We encourage trialling systems to ensure the correct equipment is fitted to your vehicle and the driving instructor forms an integral part to this assessment process in conjunction with a Driver Trained Occupational Therapist (DTOT).
Always consult a DTOT when driving modifications are required or when considering alternate systems.
Contact us for a list of Specialised Driving Instructors in your area and for information on when the High Level Assessment Van is available for you to be able to test equipment and drive from wheelchair. See information below about the wheelchair accessible vans (WAVs).