Wessex DriveAbility is a charitable organisation dedicated to assisting people with disabilities or medical conditions to drive independently. 
We also carry out Fitness to Drive Assessments for older persons.

FAQ's

If you have any questions that do not appear in the list below, please call or use our Contact form.

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A1 : A driving assessment is not a driving test. All assessments begin with a consultation with our assessment team (a Driving Instructor and an Occupational Therapist). They will discuss how you have been getting on with your driving and ask some general questions about your medical history, lifestyle, background and what you hope to achieve from your assessment. We have a selection of vehicles, equipment and adaptations for your assessment, you will then return to the centre to discuss the outcome and way forward with the assessment team.

A2 : Anyone can refer someone for an assessment. We also carry out assessments on behalf of DVLA, Motability, solicitors, insurance companies and occasionally via the Access to Work programme.

A3 : There are a number of ways you can apply for an assessment: You can call the centre on 023 8051 2222 for an application pack, which can be posted or emailed to you. You can complete the online application form and submit it to us with your payment either online or with a cheque in the post.

A4 : As a member of the Forum of Mobility Centres, we have to follow standard procedures to ensure that all of our assessments across the country are carried out in the safest possible way. It is therefore a strict policy that all clients must be taken out in a dual-controlled vehicle when being assessed for the health and safety of all those in the vehicle.

A5 : The centre is very busy with assessments during the week and unfortunately we simply do not have the time or resources to be able to offer a service outside of the centre.

A6 : If you don't have a current driving licence, or your licence has been revoked, please contact the DVLA.

A7 : You should always have somebody accompany you on an assessment. You are welcome to bring someone into your consultation with you, however, we are not insured to have them in the car during your assessment. They will be made to feel welcome and offered refreshsments including a small selection of snacks that are for sale. Alternatively there are numerous cafes within walking distance from the centre.

A8 : An assessment can take anything between 1.5 - 2 hours (this includes a consultation and feedback after the assessment).

A9 : When you return to the centre after the assessment, the assessors will give you feedback on your drive and will clearly explain what is to happen next and will provide you with details of any adaptations that might be needed etc. This is followed up with a detailed report which will be sent to you in the post, along with any relevant information sheets.

A10 : The assessment team will advise you after your assessment as to where you can find appropriate conversion and equipment specialists in your area.

A11 : At present we are only a Driving and Transfer assessment centre, however in the very near furture we will be selling small aids and equipment.

A12 : 'Drive from Wheelchair' vehicles are very specialist and unfortunately our centre does not have any of these vehicles available for assessments. However, the Forum of Mobility Centres has access to these vehicles through some of it's other centres. Please visit www.mobility-centres.org.uk for a full list of all of the centres.

A13 : You need to bring both parts of your driving licence, if you have one, and any spectacles (for driving and reading) if applicable. Also note that a small part of your assessment will take place outside, please ensure you have correct attire for the weather conditions of the day.

Driving Assessment to maintain your independence
Call 023 8051 2222 | E-mail enquiries@wessexdriveability.org.uk

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©2012 Wessex DriveAbility/Melgab All rights reserved
Registered Charity no. 1118653 | All photographs credit Becky Prowse