Navigating the Challenges of Getting Your Class 5 Driver’s License in Quebec

My Background My name is Susan Sofer, director of ACT Inc. I am an occupational therapist with 40 years of experience, specializing in driver evaluation and rehabilitation for more than 30 years. I am recognized as the first clinician in Quebec to become a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist (CDR), a credential issued by the Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (ADED) ACT Inc. is the only authorized DriveABLE™ centre in Montreal, providing advanced cognitive screening and on-road assessments for driving safety. Why People Seek Driver Evaluation Typically, people are referred to me when they or those around them are questioning whether it is safe for them to continue driving. This uncertainty may be related to a recent illness, diagnosis, progression of a medical condition, or changes related to aging. Evaluations are requested by the SAAQ, medical professionals, family members, or the drivers themselves to determine if continued driving is safe. The Assessment Process For me, the assessment is the straightforward part. The real challenge is determining what to recommend when the outcome of the combined in-office and on-road test is unfavorable. My job is to peel away the layers and determine the underlying cause of errors-whether it’s nervousness, bad driving habits, weak perceptual-cognitive skills, or physical abilities. This is especially important for individuals who may have 40 to 60 years of driving experience. After a comprehensive in-office and on-road evaluation, I discuss the results and recommendations with the individual and their family. There are three possible outcomes: Safe performance: recommend maintaining a valid permit. Safety issues identified: retraining recommended and a repeat road test. Unsafe performance: recommend suspension of permit and retirement from driving. Retraining and Rehabilitation Few clinicians offer retraining beyond standard driving lessons. For individuals who do not demonstrate safe performance but show potential for rehabilitation, I design a customized retraining program to address concerns identified in the Functional Driving Evaluation. Recommendations may include improving prerequisite skills and/or specific driving maneuvers to increase road safety. Retraining often involves computerized exercises that can be performed at home. On-road driver retraining is always required for those learning to drive using adaptive controls, such as hand controls, left foot accelerator, or spinner knob. Vehicle Modification and Adaptive Equipment When vehicle modification or adaptive equipment is required, I assist with applications to the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) for financial assistance. My assessment determines the appropriate adaptive equipment needed to : Safely access a vehicle and accommodate mobility devices (e.g., wheelchair, scooter). Drive safely using the determined equipment. This process includes collaboration with companies specializing in vehicle modification and equipment installation to ensure all adaptations meet the client’s needs and are feasible for the desired vehicle. A Collaborative Approach There is no guarantee about the outcome, as recommendations are based on individual performance. However, when warranted, options to retrain skills and improve driving performance are provided. Success is a team effort involving myself, a driving instructor, and, most importantly, a cooperative and willing driver. What Sets Me Apart What sets me apart from other occupational therapists is not only my extensive knowledge and decades of experience, but also my dedication to ongoing research, collaboration with fellow professionals, and staying at the forefront of the latest equipment and retraining techniques. I blend the science of evidence-based assessment tools-which objectively measure cognitive and functional driving abilities-with the art of clinical judgment, drawing on years of nuanced observation and individualized care. By integrating standardized computerized testing and validated screening methods, I ensure each evaluation is rooted in scientific rigor, while my experience allows me to interpret results with empathy and insight. This unique combination of expertise, scientific precision, and the art of understanding each person’s story enables me to provide recommendations that are both comprehensive and personalized. My ultimate goal is to help individuals maintain their independence without compromising their safety or that of others on the road.