Can an Autistic Person Drive?

August 7, 2025

Yes, many autistic people can and do drive successfully. Like anyone else, the ability to drive depends on individual strengths, challenges, and comfort levels. Autism affects each person differently, so some may need more practice or support to feel confident behind the wheel.

Key factors that affect driving include sensory sensitivity, attention, motor coordination, and the ability to process social cues like reading other drivers’ behaviors. With proper support and training, many autistic individuals can learn to manage these challenges and become safe, independent drivers.


Some may benefit from driving assessments, specialized instruction, or occupational therapy focused on building driving-related skills. It’s also important to ensure the person feels emotionally ready to handle the unpredictability of the road.


At Blue Jay ABA, we help teens and young adults build life skills, including focus, self-regulation, and decision-making that can support long-term goals like driving.


Need help preparing your child or teen for independence?


Contact Blue Jay ABA today to learn how our personalized ABA therapy in North Carolina can support life skills and confidence.


SOURCES:


https://www.healthline.com/health/autism/can-autistic-people-drive#autism-and-driving


https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/can-autistic-people-drive/


https://teendriversource.research.chop.edu/learning-to-drive/driving-with-neurodevelopmental-differences/autism-and-driving


https://www.aspect.org.au/blog/autism-behind-the-wheel


https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/transport/driving

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