Massachusetts Autism Driving Resources

Here is the state of Massachusetts, home of many disability organizations like HMEA, AANE, and Pathlight/Autism Connections. Unlike Connecticut, this state offers more driving schools and more providers with assessments. Like any state, these resources may be far or close to you. Up to you on what resource suits you the best. Do let me know in the comments section if there is a resource that should be added. 
 
​*July 30th Update: Added a new service here* 
​*April 21st Update: Added the Blue Envelope Program*
​*May 5th Update: Addedthe Dave Driving School*
​*October 2024 Update: Added Drive Rx and took out Traid Driving Academy*



Driving Schools:

CMSC Driving School 

Located in Central Massachusetts, they have adaptive services for those with physical and mental disabilities/conditions. They have over 30 years of experience working with unconventional students and part of numerous public schools in the state. The first step for this program is the pre-driving assessment that covers an individual’s driving abilities. The second step is the driving assessment where a certified driver rehab specialist conducts an evaluation inside a car. Finally, an adaptive driving strategy is created after both assessments are completed.  
If you want to check in before committing, they offer a free consultation to help you out.  
 
 
Hoffman Auto School 

Located in Merrimac, they are noted for their interest in helping autistic students learn driving skills. I met with the owner during a resource fair, hosted by Northeast Arc last October. They showed a strong willingness to engage with this population that they are added to this list. Another noteworthy aspect is that they offer a Kick Start course that helps those with anxiety on the wheel. 
 
DriveRx, LLC
Originally with Triad Driving Academy, DriveRx is an adaptive program tackles both clinical and behind the wheel assessments with an OT driver rehab specialist. They also do referrals and recommendations to help those go forward in their transportation journalizes. Current populations they tackle are autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and older drivers. 


 
Grand Prix Driving School  

Over at Cape Cod, they work with the learning disabilities, physical disabilities, and other disability populations on driving lessons. They offer in classroom accommodation based on students’ very own IEP and 504 plans.   They collaborate with Cape Abilities, LIFE program, and the Mass Rehab Commission to make sure students’ needs are met. 


Dave's Driving School, Inc.

Located over at Pittsfield, they tend to get clients from the College Internship Inc program in Lee. 

 

Non-Driving Programs: 
 
Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital 

In their Spaulding Outpatient Center Braintree branch, they offer a driver rehab program, which consists of assessments. OTs in their team conduct clinical and vehicle assessments to help individuals emulate their overall driving ability.  
 
 
Emerson Health 

This medical center provides driver assessments with an OT/rehab specialist. One noteworthy note is that they partnered with CMSC Driving School. 
 

 
HMEA’s Autism Resource Central 

Within their ASD Adult Training Series, they offer a Thinking about Driving Series. General topics touch on driver readiness and anxiety management. They have a separate training on taking public transport for those pursuing that option. 


Therapeutic Driving with Occupational Therapy

​Therapeutic Driving with Occupational Therapy, LLC is owned and operated by an occupational therapist who is a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist.   Services are most often provided at the client's home.  Commitment to individualized care is part of the planning for every client.  The process begins with a comprehensive clinical assessment and if appropriate continues with a behind the wheel evaluation.   All services are individualized to meet the needs of the client.

Southeast Center for Independent Living, Inc.

Located in the southeastern of Massachusetts, SCIL offers driver education learner's permit classes for those wanting to obtain their license. 


Blue Envelope Program
Similar to Connecticut's program, this program is an envelope that contains general information and guidelines about autism and what police officers can do in a situation where they are interacting with autistic individuals. Drivers can put their driving documents like registration and license incase if they are pulled over. This program was created by a partnership with Arc of Massachusetts, Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts, Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, and Massachusetts State Police.
 

Assistive Tech: 
Automotive Innovations offers assistive technology and specialized vans. 
Adaptive Dealer - Automotive Innovations 


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