Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Driver Rehab Services

What is the referral procedure?
Can I drive my own car for the behind the wheel evaluation?
Do you accept appointments, and where do I go for an appointment?
If I need adaptive equipment, do you direct me to a specific vehicle modifier for my modification?
What happens after program completion/discharge?
How are your fees billed/invoiced?
Who can benefit from your services?

What is the referral procedure?

To schedule services, a person should have a valid driver’s license, permit, or restricted instructional permit. This allows the behind-the-wheel evaluation to take place on public roadways. Otherwise the behind the wheel part of the evaluation is limited to parking lot evaluation only. Referral sources include but are not limited to:

Self-referral

Medical doctor

Eye care specialist

Vocational Rehabilitation counselor

Independent Living Program counselor

The State Division of Motor Vehicles

Worker’s Compensation case manager

Attorney

School Systems

Clients must be seizure-free for at least at least 6 months (If not seizure-free, they must have a doctor’s waiver). A referral form must be completed and submitted from the referral source.

Can I drive my own car for the behind the wheel evaluation?

Typically, the driving phase of the evaluation is conducted in the company's vehicle with dual controls, appropriate signage, and an extra rear view mirror. These are minimum requirements that are set for all driving schools that are licensed by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles. Exceptions are made on occasion if special circumstances apply.

Do you accept appointments, and where do I go for an appointment?

All appointments are made after receiving complete referral information and pre-approval of payment for services.

If I need adaptive equipment, do you direct me to a specific vehicle modifier for my modifications?

Driver Rehabilitation Services can provide a list of vehicle modifiers certified to install and service your adaptive equipment. If your needs are product specific and can only be met by a certain dealer or manufacturer, you will be informed of this. In every situation, the ideal customer is one who speaks to local vehicle modifiers, interviewing them for service availability, warranty coverages, after-hours emergency service, and length of time required to complete the vehicle modification. An informed choice of a vehicle modifier is usually the decision of the person/entity funding the modification.

What happens after program completion / discharge?

As a client nears completion of services assurance will be made that they have legal status to drive. This often means that the final stage of training will include going to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles for to demonstrate competency by passing a road test. This often means appropriate restrictions for equipment or other needs is endorsed on their license. Following all the necessary steps will result in a final outcome of independent driving priviledges.

How are your fees billed/invoiced?

Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Independent Living Program, Workers Compensation or private/self-pay are potential funding sources. If the client is private/self-pay, partial payment is collected to reserve an appointment time. Full payment is expected at the time the service is provided. Private insurance, Medicare and Medicaid do not reimburse driver evaluations.

Who can benefit from your services?

The program can help persons with a variety of disabilities including but not limited to: stroke, amputations or arms or legs, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, arthritis, visual impairments, neurological impairments, decreased function due to aging, cardiac conditions, diabetic conditions, congenital disabilities.