The Evaluation Process

The clinical driving evaluation is a two to three hour evaluation performed at Duke University Health Center at Lenox Baker. The evaluation focuses on a person’s physical strength and coordination, thinking skills, vision, and reaction times.

Participation in a behind-the-wheel evaluation will be determined based on the results of the clinical driving evaluation. The behind-the-wheel evaluation will be set up at the time of your clinical driving evaluation. If you are coming from outside the Triangle, North Carolina area (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill), the behind-the-wheel evaluation can be set up on the same day if you notify us at least one week prior to your appointment.

To participate in the clinical driving evaluation, a physician referral is required.

If the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has recommended this evaluation, you must have your physician write a referral. The results and recommendations will be faxed to your physician within five business days. If the DMV is requiring the evaluation, the results will be faxed directly to the DMV.

The clinical driving evaluation is billable to insurance. Most insurance carriers pay a percent of billed costs depending on the terms of your policy. The behind-the-wheel test is not billable to insurance. Payment by check or cash is expected at the time of this evaluation.

Please bring a list of your medications and eyeglasses to your clinical driving evaluation appointment.

Vehicle Modification and Training

Our goal is to enable clients to safely operate a motor vehicle. One may be in need of an adaptive driving setup due to physical limitations from an injury or illness. The Duke Driving Program will make recommendations for vehicle modifications to enable a person to safely operate a motor vehicle. 

An evaluation of current physical status and recommendations for adaptive equipment are discussed during the clinical driving evaluation. Recommendations for hand and steering controls, left foot accelerators, adapted secondary controls (turn indicators, windshield wipers) and seating are based on individuals needs. We work closely with a certified driving instructor, as well as local vehicle modification vendors, to identify the best setup to enable you to drive.

The behind-the-wheel training can be performed in an adapted car or van. Driver training is performed by a certified driving instructor with the recommended equipment. This training is required prior to installation of equipment in your own vehicle. Once the equipment is installed in your vehicle, you must participate in a North Carolina DMV road test.

To schedule an appointment, please call 919-684-2445.