Learning To Drive With Various Learning Difficulties:
Learning difficulties present in various forms and are often hidden. Some have a diagnosis whereas as others are more difficult to detect. Some examples include, Asperger’s syndrome, dyslexia, autism, and dyspraxia.
The affects of a disability or condition differs for each person and for some people driving may not be an option. Some learn to drive with minimal difficulty and others experience various challenges. However, when learning to drive, it is these specific challenges that require evaluating, specific teaching and learning techniques.
Anyone with a medical condition that may affect their ability to drive safely. Contact your GP and comply with the Medical Fitness to Drive Guidelines. View/Download RSA ‘Sláinte agus Tiomáint’ >>(PDF format).
Before learning to drive you must be in possession of a learner permit. To apply for your learner permit visit Visit RSA Learner-Drivers >>.
Once you have acquired your learner permit you may then choose a Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor.
For anyone with a learning disability/difficulty, a tailored driving course may be necessary to suit an individuals learning style.
An evaluation is completed to establish a persons functional level and also helps to identify the person’s strengths and weaknesses.
Having developed this baseline, a specific structured training programme is put in place. This will include regular reviews to re-evaluate the learning style and teaching techniques to enable the driver acquire a confident, competent driving standard.
Additionally, a vehicle with automatic transmission may provide some people with a more suitable learning option.
