California Autism Driving Resources

I was figuring there would be more driving schools due to the size of the state, but that was reserved for the non-school programs. This state certainly contains quite a bit for driver rehab services. I am hoping to find more driving schools in the near future. If you know any schools that are not on here, comment below or message me through my contact page. Thank you for using this resource and have a wonderful day!  
 
*August 17th 2023 Update: Added more programs*
 
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Driving Schools: 

Bond Driving School 

While autism is not mentioned, they do have cognitive disabilities where it is possibly grouped with that term. Located in Sacramento, they provide the usual driver education services like driver safety and on the road lessons. One of the more interesting programs they have is their ADHD program, where that course tackles executive functioning, using specific help to help with driving, medications, and information on decreasing risks of texting while driving. They also have a rehab program that covers disabilities and other conditions with adaptive tech and evaluations. 

 
Fearless Driver 

Located in San Francisco, this school has an adaptive program that covers services for those with disabilities and physical conditions.  
 
 
Apex Driving Schools 

They offer driving services for any student with a disability and autism is mentioned on their list. Their main instructor has over 30 years of experience and is certified as a driver rehab specialist by the ADED. Payment wise, they have a page that goes over the rates for using their services. 
 
 
 
Non-Driving Schools: 
 
Driver Rehab Specialists Inc 
Located in San Marcos, this program tackles the classic clinical assessments, on the road evaluation, and adaptive tech training. They also have an occupational therapy service for those who could use help on improving skills relating to driving.  
 
 
Capuchino Therapy Group 
While different than most providers I have seen, they have a service in regards with driver rehab. They do the evaluations, instructions and advising with the use of adaptive tech. Their staff are trained OT with a background in driver rehab. Autism is mentioned in one of the groups they work with on their website. Payment wise, they accept most insurances, and their page goes over their policies.  
 
 
John Muir Health 

Located in Pleasant Hill, their adaptive program helps interested autistic individuals explore driving and see if it is a good fit for them. The program covers clinical and behind the wheel evaluations, and training to improve driving skills. Payment-wise, most insurance plans would not cover this, except clients within the state’s department of rehabilitation and worker compensation. 
 
 
DriveABLE 

Over in the San Francisco area, this is one of the first driving assessment center around. They help drivers with assessing their driving abilities with their DriveABLE On Road Evaluation.  
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L.A. County Health Services 

They have a variety of services from clinical assessments, simulator training, driver education, prepping for DMV test, and exploring alternative transportation options. Developmental disabilities and other conditions are mentioned on their website of populations they work with. The provider does a driver support group for select Tuesdays for each month. 

 
The Casa Colina Adaptive Driving Program 
Over at Casa Colina, this program helps those wanting to learn driving and those returning as well. Autism is mentioned on their website, and they work with other disabilities too. They help with clinical assessments and evaluations on the road with their specialty van that contains assistive tech. For those not ready for being on the road, they have a Pre-Driver Training Program that reviews all the skills needed for driving.  
 

CA Department of Rehabilitation's Mobility Evaluation Program
Their evaluation program reviews adaptive driving equipment, car modifications, and training for any client within the department. They also review options for those who cannot drive. Staff is certified in driver rehabilitation, and they have an OT with driver rehab certification. 
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Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital
Their adaptive driver program helps those looking for driver and behind the wheel evaluations. To be part of their program, a physician’s referral and permit from the DMV is required. 


Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center
They serve individuals of all ages and with developmental disabilities. They provide pre-driver screenings, behind the wheel evaluations, simulator training, and driver education for new drivers. Staff tend to be OTS, driver rehab specialists, and instructors. Payment wise, health insurance does not cover evaluations and sessions. 


Smith OT & Driving Rehabilitation​ Services
Located at the North Bay, they work with autism and other disability populations. They provide driver evaluations, driver strategies, training, adaptive tech recommendations, and other recommendations. Staff are certified as driver rehab specialists. No word on any payment amount, so call ahead to get more information on it. 
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Initiative/Other Resources 
 
CA’s People with Disabilities Page 
The state government website has selected services people can use that relate to the DMV.  

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