Cognitive Fitness to Drive Evaluation
OT Driving Assessments Brisbane: Cognitive Fitness to Drive Risk Assessment
Clinic-based cognitive and functional screening for adults where memory, attention, judgement, neurological change or GP/TMR review raises concerns about driving safety.
Deciding if a loved one is safe to drive is stressful. When memory loss, Dementia, or neurological changes are involved, the “rules of the road” change. A standard driving test looks at skills, but it often fails to measure the hidden cognitive risksโlike split-second decision-making and impulse control.
You need a clinical answer, not a driving lesson. We answer this clearly through an OT driver assessment process that’s designed for drivers experiencing cognitive decline.
At Occupational Therapy Brisbane, our clinical focus is Cognitive Health. We go beyond basic checklists to answer the critical question facing families and GPs: “Do they have the cognitive reserve to drive safely?”
We utilise a proprietary cognitive evaluation model designed to map the specific brain functions required for the road. This rigorous assessment aligns with the Assessing Fitness to Drive (Austroads) guidelines, providing you with a detailed Clinical Risk Profile.
So, whether you’re a family member seeking peace of mind, or a GP requiring objective data for a medical licensing decision, we provide the specialised clarity you need.
What This OT Driving Assessment Brisbane Is โ And Is Not
A Cognitive Fitness to Drive Risk Assessment is a clinic-based cognitive and functional screen for adults where there are concerns about memory, attention, judgement, processing speed, neurological change or driving safety.
This service helps families, GPs and clients understand whether cognitive or functional changes may be contributing to driving risk, and whether further medical review, specialist input or formal on-road assessment may be required.
This service is suitable when there are concerns about:
- Memory change, mild cognitive impairment or dementia
- Parkinsonโs disease, stroke, brain injury or other neurological conditions
- Reduced attention, slower processing speed or judgement changes
- Family or personal concern about an older driverโs safety
- GP or medical review related to fitness to drive
This service is not:
- A driving lesson
- A road test
- A licence test
- A learner driver assessment
Instead, this assessment provides clinical information about cognitive and functional driving risk factors. The goal is to support clearer decision-making for the person, their family and their GP.
Phase 1: The Clinical Cognitive Screen: Helps Map Brain Skills to Driving Risk
Before a driver enters a vehicle, we must understand the “why” behind their driving behaviours. Putting a driver with significant cognitive impairment directly onto the road can be stressful and unsafe.
We utilise a proprietary Cognitive-Functional Evaluation to bridge the gap between medical diagnosis and on-road performance.
Unlike standard screenings, our model looks “under the hood” of the driver’s cognitive capacity. We integrate evidence-based tools, including the DriveSafe DriveAware (DSDA) and specific executive function tests, to measure:
- Impulse Control & Judgement: Can they predict a hazard before it happens?
- Processing Speed: Can the brain react fast enough for Brisbane traffic?
- Visuospatial Mapping: Can they accurately judge gaps and distances?
The Outcome: A Clinical Risk Profile This screen provides a predictive “Go/No-Go” indicator for the on-road drive.
For Families: It provides a dignified, objective answer on safety without the stress of a driving failure.
For GPs: It delivers the validated data required to support complex “Fitness to Drive” decisions, reducing clinical uncertainty.
This assessment does not replace a formal on-road driving assessment or licensing decision. It helps clarify cognitive and functional risk factors and whether further medical, specialist or on-road assessment may be required.
Ready to Schedule? Your Appointment Checklist
- Location & Access
35 Babarra St, Stafford 4053 (North Brisbane).
Our clinic is fully wheelchair accessible with free onsite parking at the door.
- Clinical Eligibility
Please Note: This service is strictly for Cognitive & Neurological driving concerns.
We do not currently assess drivers where the primary condition is acute mental health (e.g., Psychosis/Schizophrenia).
- Required Documentation
To comply with TMR reporting standards, we require a GP Referral or Medical Summary, Vision assessment and any recent hearing evaluation reports prior to the appointment.
GP Referral Download: OT Driver Screening Referral Form
- Availability & Booking
Specialist clinics are held twice weekly.
To secure an urgent appointment for a TMR deadline, please call our intake team on 1300 783 200.
- What to Expect:
Upon booking, you will receive a confirmation email and a “Pre-Appointment Guide” via SMS + Email. This ensures you arrive prepared and calm for the assessment.
- Fees & Rebates
Total Investment: $749.00
Includes the comprehensive Clinical Screen and the Medico-Legal Report for your GP/TMR.
Rebates may be available via Private Health Insurance (Occupational Therapy Extras).
Who Requires a Cognitive Driving Evaluation?
This assessment is not just for “older drivers.” It is a clinical necessity for any adult where a medical event or cognitive change has raised questions about road safety.
We specialise in defining the medical fitness to drive for:
- Memory & Cognition: Individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), early-stage Dementia, or Alzheimerโs, where family members are noticing lapses in judgement or memory.
- Neurological Recovery: Drivers returning to the road following a Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), or Parkinsonโs diagnosis who require clinical clearance.
- TMR & GP Requirements: Drivers who have been asked by the Department of Transport (TMR) or their GP to provide a specialist functional report to retain their license.
The Clinical Value: For GPs and Families, this process removes the guesswork. Instead of proceeding directly to a potentially stressful on-road failure, our proprietary screening model predicts the likelihood of safety. This saves time, preserves dignity, and provides the objective data required for the TMR Medical Certificate.
Clinical Note: This assessment is specialised for cognitive and neurological function. It is not currently suitable for patients where the primary barrier to driving is an active acute mental health condition (e.g., severe anxiety, psychosis).
Schedule Your OT Driving Assessment Brisbane
Start the Process – Our intake team will coordinate with you and your GP to ensure all TMR reporting requirements are met.
- For Families & Patients: Call 1300 783 200 to check availability.
- For Medical Referrers: Fax TMR Forms/Referrals to 1300 400 395 or call 1300 783 200.
Not ready to book a full assessment?
If you’re seeing “near misses” or confusion but aren’t sure if it’s time to act, start with our free clinical guide. — Download Guide Below —
Cognitive Health & Road Safety “Our focus is to provide you with the objective clinical data required to navigate complex licensing decisions. We help families move from ‘worrying’ to knowing.“
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can We Help You?
Please fill out the short form below and tell us how can we best help you? One of our team members will reach out when it comes through.
What is a driving assessment screening and who is it for?
A driving assessment screening is an occupational therapy evaluation that looks at how changes in memory, attention, vision, or movement may affect someoneโs ability to drive safely. Itโs often recommended after a neurological condition, illness, or injury. The screening helps identify whether further testing, retraining, or adjustments may be needed. For some, it provides reassurance; for others, it clarifies the next safe step. Contact our Brisbane team if youโre unsure whether this applies to your situation.
How is a driving assessment screening different from a full OT driving assessment?
A screening is an early, shorter process. It checks for key cognitive, physical, and visual skills linked to safe driving. If results are clear, you may not need a full on-road assessment. If areas of concern appear, we can guide you towards a comprehensive OT driving assessment in line with Queensland licensing requirements. Think of it as a compass - helping you know whether youโre on track or if more detailed guidance is needed.
What happens during the screening process?
The screening is clinic-based and usually takes around an hour. Youโll complete standardised tests that look at reaction time, attention, memory, and coordination. These are explained in plain English, and thereโs no need to โstudyโ beforehand. The goal isnโt to catch people out - itโs to provide clarity and confidence about driving safety. At the end, youโll receive feedback and recommendations for next steps.
What are the benefits of doing an OT driving assessment screening?
Many people find relief in having clear information rather than uncertainty. A screening can:
- Reassure you or your family about driving ability.
- Highlight skills that may need support before an on-road test.
- Provide evidence for GPs, specialists, or licensing authorities.
- Reduce stress by offering a clear plan.
Itโs about protecting independence while keeping safety at the centre. Contact us to learn whether a screening could help in your circumstances.
How much does an OT driving assessment Brisbane screening cost?
Starts from $749.00. Costs can vary depending on your situation and funding pathway. Some people access screening through NDIS, insurance, or health plans; others pay privately. Weโre transparent about fees and can outline costs before you book, including whether you may be eligible for rebates or support. Speak with our team to understand the best option for you.
Do I need a GP referral for a driving assessment screening?
A GP referral is not always required, but many clients are referred by their doctor, neurologist, or support coordinator. If youโre unsure, we can guide you through the referral process and explain what documents may be useful. Having your GP involved ensures your care stays connected and well-documented.
How do I book a driving assessment screening in Brisbane?
Booking is straightforward. You can contact Occupational Therapy Brisbane directly by phone or online. Our team will talk through your situation, explain what to expect, and arrange a time that suits you. If youโre a GP or support coordinator, we also accept direct referrals. Taking the first step is often the hardest, but it can bring peace of mind for both drivers and families.