Driving With a Disability in Victoria: Adaptive Lessons and Licence Information

A physical disability or medical condition doesn’t automatically prevent you from getting a Victorian driver’s licence. Victoria has a well-established framework for adaptive driving assessments and modified vehicles — and thousands of people with disabilities drive safely and independently across Melbourne every day.

Can People With Disabilities Get a Driver’s Licence in Victoria?

Yes. VicRoads assesses each application on an individual basis. The focus is on whether the applicant can safely operate a motor vehicle — with or without adaptive equipment. Many conditions that affect one area of physical function are fully compatible with driving when appropriate vehicle modifications are in place.

Conditions That May Be Assessed

VicRoads may request a medical assessment for conditions including (but not limited to):

• Limb differences or amputations
• Spinal cord injuries or paralysis
• Multiple sclerosis
• Acquired brain injuries
• Vision impairment (if within certain thresholds)
• Epilepsy (subject to seizure-free periods)
• Diabetes (stable, medically managed)
• Chronic conditions affecting reaction time or concentration

The Driving Assessment Process for Medical Conditions

If VicRoads requires it, you will be referred to an Occupational Therapist Driving Assessor (OT-DA). This is a specialist OT with additional training in driving assessment and adaptive vehicle modifications. The OT-DA will:

1. Assess your physical function, cognition and perception
2. Recommend any adaptive equipment required (hand controls, spinner knobs, left-foot accelerators, etc.)
3. Conduct an on-road assessment in an appropriately modified vehicle
4. Provide a written report to VicRoads with their recommendation

Adaptive Vehicle Equipment

Common vehicle modifications used by drivers with disabilities in Victoria include:

• Hand controls — push/pull or push/rock systems for drivers who cannot use foot pedals
• Spinner knobs — attached to the steering wheel for one-hand steering
• Left-foot accelerators — for right-leg impairment
• Panoramic mirrors — for reduced head or neck rotation
• Raised or lowered seating — for height or lower limb differences

Your Licence and Its Conditions

Depending on the OT assessment outcome, your VicRoads licence may include conditions such as:

• “Automatic vehicle only”
• “Modified vehicle only — [specific modifications listed]”
• “Medical review required [date]”
• “Daylight hours only” (for certain vision conditions)

These conditions are printed on your licence card and must be complied with at all times while driving.

Where to Get an Adaptive Driving Assessment in Melbourne

Several Melbourne-based OT-DA providers offer adaptive driving assessments. Ask your GP for a referral to a recognised provider, or contact VicRoads directly for their current list of approved assessors. Assessment costs vary but are typically in the range of $300–$600 for the full assessment.

Note: Medicare does not generally cover OT driving assessments, but the NDIS may fund assessments and adaptive vehicle modifications for eligible participants.

Learning to Drive With a Disability

Professional driving lessons are highly recommended for drivers with medical conditions or disabilities — both to build skills efficiently and to demonstrate safe, competent driving to your OT-DA assessor. At Freshers Driving School, we welcome students with all abilities and are experienced in working with learners who have specific physical or medical needs.

If you have specific requirements, please call us on 0434 521 743 before booking so we can discuss the best approach for your situation.

Everyone deserves the independence that comes with a driver’s licence. Contact Freshers Driving School Melbourne to discuss your individual needs — we’re here to help.