Driving Evaluation FAQ
Answers to the questions families and physicians ask most often about driving evaluations in Spokane and Coeur d'Alene. Don't see your question? Email promo@ironwoodneuro.com.
What is a driving evaluation?
A driving evaluation is an objective assessment of the skills safe driving depends on: vision, thinking and memory, reaction time, and physical function. It is completed by a licensed occupational therapist and gives families and physicians clear information to guide decisions about driving, instead of relying on guesswork or a single office visit.
Who is a driving evaluation for?
Adults whose driving may be affected by a medical or age-related change, including memory loss or dementia, stroke, brain injury, Parkinson's disease, vision loss, or general concerns raised by family or a physician. Many families request an evaluation after a near miss, getting lost on a familiar route, or a new diagnosis.
What happens during the evaluation?
The clinical evaluation takes about two hours. It includes vision screening, cognitive testing focused on attention, memory, and decision-making, motor and reaction-time testing using computerized tools, and a conversation with the driver and family. You leave with a clear explanation of the results, and a written report follows for you and, with your permission, your physician.
Do you do behind-the-wheel (on-road) testing?
No. Our evaluations are clinic-based and do not include on-road testing. If the results suggest an on-road assessment would be helpful, we will explain why and point you to the right next step.
How much does it cost? Do you take insurance?
Ironwood Neuro is private pay:
- Clinical Driving Evaluation (about 2 hours): $425
- In-Home Evaluation (about 2.5 hours): $475
- Re-Evaluation (about 1.5 hours): $250
- Family Consultation (about 1 hour): $150
A superbill is available on request, which you can submit to your insurance plan. Coverage for driving evaluations varies by plan, so check with your insurer about reimbursement.
Do I need a referral from a doctor?
No. Families can request an evaluation directly. Physician referrals are welcome, and physicians can refer through our For Providers page.
Who receives the results?
You do. With your written permission, we also send the report to your physician. We explain at the start of the evaluation exactly who will receive a copy.
Can a driving evaluation take away a license?
No. Driver's licenses are issued and managed by the state: the Washington Department of Licensing and the Idaho Transportation Department. Our role is to provide objective findings and practical recommendations so drivers, families, and physicians can make an informed decision.
Where do evaluations take place?
Clinical evaluations take place in Spokane. In-home evaluations are available for families in the Spokane and Coeur d'Alene areas, including Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Mead, Post Falls, and Hayden.
What should we bring?
- Glasses, contact lenses, and hearing aids normally used while driving
- A current list of medications
- Recent eye exam results, if available
- Any notes from family about specific driving concerns
How do I talk with a parent about getting evaluated?
Start with specific observations rather than conclusions, and frame the evaluation as a way to get objective answers rather than a test to pass or fail. Many drivers are relieved to have a neutral professional involved. If you are not sure how to start the conversation, our Family Consultation is designed for exactly that.
How soon can we get an appointment?
Submit a request on our Appointments page and a member of our team will follow up within one business day to schedule.