Transition Transportation
Travel Training
Students who are unable to acquire a driver’s license may benefit from Travel Training. Travel training programs help young people gain familiarity and experience with various forms of Public Transportation available including buses, trains, and taxis.
With training, young people can find ways to safely access community and work environments with a high degree of independence. Post-secondary support agencies such as the MRC (Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commision) can often provide support and instruction related to these types of transportation needs.
Paratransit
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) requires that comparable paratransit service (e.g. Dial-A-Ride) be available to persons who, because of a disability, are unable to use accessible, public fixed-route service. Paratransit companies provide curb to curb transportation for passengers who meet ADA requirements.
For more information visit:
Individuals with disabilities can often face unique challenges when considering applying for their permit and driver’s license however there are resources available that can help them through the process.
Applying for a Learner’s Permit
Students are eligible to apply for a Learner’s Permit after their 16th birthday. Students operating a vehicle with a Learner’s Permit must be accompanied by a licensed adult. Students with disabilities who may have difficulty with the computerized permit exam may apply for exam accommodations. Accommodations include: Extended Time, Written Exam, or Oral Exam.
Applying for a Driver’s License
Students are eligible to apply for a Junior Operator’s License (JOL) when they are 16 1/2 years old. They must have held a Learner’s Permit for 6 months and completed a Driver’s Education Program and Supervised Behind-The-Wheel Driving hours. Students who are age 18 or older may apply directly for the standard Class D License as long as they hold a Learner’s Permit.
Driver’s Education for Youth with Disabilities
Transportation Resources through MRC and the Adaptive Driving Program can help provide driver training specifically for youth with disabilities. Youth can also consult with an Adaptive Driving Specialist who can provide advice and support with adaptive driving equipment.
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/mrc-transportation-resources
http://www.adaptivedrivingprogram.com/?page_id=21
Driving Assessments are available for individuals who may be unsure whether they can safely drive due to a disability. Driving Assessments assess factors such as vision, hearing, reaction time, motor skills, and cognitive abilities. For more information about driving evaluation programs and assessments, see the following RMV publication:
https://www.mass.gov/doc/your-health-and-driving-safely-0/download
RMV Medical Affairs Branch
The Medical Affairs branch of the Registry of Motor Vehicles issues Disabled Plates/Placards and sets policies and procedures regarding minimum physical qualifications to operate motor vehicles. For more information, visit the MA RMV Website: