Driving with Disabilities
Most cars can be converted to suit your disability. This can range from a simple hand control to the most technical ‘joystick’ controls. Grants may be available to assist with the conversions.

When to apply
You can apply for your provisional driving licence within three months of your 16th birthday, if you are receiving Disability Living Allowance at the higher rate. However, you can't use your licence until your 16th birthday.

The Test

• You will have to sit the same theory and practical tests as everyone else, however there are systems in place to assist you wherever they can.
• The practical driving test can be taken in either your own adapted car or a driving school car with the correct adaptations for you.
• There's more time allowed to enable the driving examiner to understand fully your disability and to allow you more time to enter and exit the vehicle. The actual test content will not be any different.

There are a number of organisations which can help you on the way to becoming a driver. There are only a few assessment centres in Britain and only one in Scotland at the Astley Ainslie Hospital, 133 Grange Loan, Edinburgh, EH9 2HL. Telephone 0131 537 9192.

'Motability' can assist with the cost of driving lessons (subject to agreements), for more information check out their website below:

Related Links:

• Disabled Drivers Association
• Disabled Drivers Motor Club
• Queen Elizabeth's Foundation
• Motability