For many teenagers, getting a driver’s license marks a major step toward adulthood. But for adolescents on the autism spectrum, the road to independence is often filled with additional questions, concerns, and uncertainties. A recent study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders reveals that clinicians play a vital role in supporting autistic teens through this complex process, particularly when it comes to driving with autism.
Fostering independence is a powerful and important goal for families and clinicians working with autistic adolescents. For many, the ability to drive can open doors to employment, education, social experiences, and overall improved quality of life. However, conversations about driving with autism are not always initiated early—or at all—leaving families unprepared to make informed decisions. This new research shows that healthcare providers are often the ones who introduce the topic, prompting broader discussions around autonomy and adulthood.
The Role of Clinicians in Driving Discussions
The study, led by Rachel Myers, PhD, associate director at the Center for Injury Research and Prevention (CIRP), included interviews with 15 healthcare providers from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Autism Centers of Excellence. These clinicians—each with five or more years of experience—described their challenges and perspectives when it comes to advising patients and caregivers about driving with autism.
Clinicians noted that many autistic adolescents were highly motivated to pursue a driver’s license. But despite this enthusiasm, providers often felt unprepared to offer the type of guidance families need. Some cited limited time during appointments; others expressed a lack of familiarity with community resources or formal training on how autism may affect driving readiness. Yet, they acknowledged that they serve as intermediaries—facilitating communication between teens and their caregivers on what can be a high-stakes subject.
One provider interviewed in the study shared: “If there are not appropriate resources and… if there’s not backup that clinicians can use to help families through this, then it’s a very tricky thing to be able to deal with in a quick clinic visit. And it’s potentially a very high-stakes thing to talk about.”
Unique Concerns Around Driving with Autism
The topic of driving with autism also brings unique concerns to the forefront. Some adolescents may experience heightened anxiety behind the wheel, struggle to interpret social cues on the road, or feel unsure about how to handle interactions with police officers. On a practical level, some families don’t have access to a vehicle or the financial means for professional driving instruction. These factors compound the complexity of the decision to pursue a license.
To address these concerns, the study’s authors recommend a care model that incorporates a multidisciplinary team. Rather than relying solely on primary care providers or behavioral health specialists, this approach brings together occupational therapists, autism specialists, driving educators, and community resource coordinators. This team-based support can help families assess readiness, plan next steps, and connect with services tailored to the needs of teens driving with autism.
The Value of a Warm Handoff and Resource Awareness
One especially impactful recommendation from the study was the idea of a “warm handoff.” In this model, clinicians don’t just suggest resources—they actively connect families to them. Whether that means referring an adolescent to an adaptive driving program or a local therapist who focuses on executive functioning skills, this handoff makes sure no one falls through the cracks.
Still, clinicians expressed a desire for more comprehensive knowledge of the programs available in their communities. They want to support patients and families more effectively but need stronger systems in place to do so. Building these bridges between clinical care and community support can be a game-changer for adolescents driving with autism.
Driving as a Milestone of Independence
At the heart of the issue is a deeper truth: conversations about driving with autism are rarely just about transportation. They represent a broader journey toward autonomy and confidence. When families feel supported and teens feel capable, driving becomes more than a goal—it becomes a milestone in living a fuller, more self-directed life.
Improving access to information, fostering collaboration across disciplines, and giving clinicians the time and tools they need can turn these high-stakes conversations into empowering opportunities. For adolescents driving with autism, the path forward might look different—but with the right support, they can move toward independence on their own terms.
Moving Forward
As we continue to refine care models and strengthen community-clinic partnerships, one thing is clear: when it comes to driving with autism, every step forward is a step toward a more inclusive and empowered future.
