Sanford Health

Driver Evaluation & Training

The Occupational Therapy Department at Sanford USD Medical Center recognizes that independence and mobility are of key importance to quality of life. Sanford's Driver Evaluation and Training Program offers driving evaluation and skills training or retraining to provide older adults and those with disabilities the opportunity for independence through driving.

This program is also valuable for family members, physicians and other professionals to help determine an individual’s ability to drive by providing a measurable and objective evaluation.


Driver Evaluation:
Driver evaluation is designed to measure a person’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle in today’s complex environment. For an experienced driver who has become disabled, driving take on a new set of considerations. For a person with special needs, an evaluation program occurs in three phases and involves:

  • Evaluation of functional ability

  • Test of visual acuity, field of vision and depth perception

  • Testing of cognitive functioning as it relates to driving

  • Behind the wheel evaluation

  • Evaluation and recommendation for adaptive equipment or vehicle best suited to the individual’s needs

  • A summary and recommendation



Who Can Benefit:
Each of the assessments is conducted under a physician’s order. Evaluation results include whether or not an individual may safely operate a motor vehicle, as well as recommendations for adaptive equipment, further training or driving restrictions.

Further on the road training is available through Sanford's Driver Evaluation and Training Program or through the South Dakota Safety Council, if it is recommended.


Driver Training:
For individuals who have the potential to drive, behind-the-wheel instruction is geared to individual needs and abilities. Lessons emphasize defensive driving, city, freeway and rural driving and preparation for the state.


Who is Appropriate?
May include, but is not limited to people with:

  • Cerebral palsy, spina bifida or other congenital disabilities

  • Multiple sclerosis

  • Learning disabilities

  • People with arthritis

  • Orthopedic injuries

  • Neurologic impairments

  • Acquired immune deficiency syndrome

  • Back injuries

May also include:
  • Amputees

  • Stroke survivors

  • Seniors

  • Other types of impairments



For referrals and further information, contact:

Outpatient Rehabilitation & Therapy Services
1210 W. 18th St., Suite LL01
Sioux Falls, SD 57104
605-328-1860
1-800-258-3333