WHEATON, Ill. — A specialized driving rehabilitation program at Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital is helping teens and young adults on the autism spectrum learn safe driving skills and gain independence behind-the-wheel. Designed to address the unique learning styles, sensory needs and communication preferences often associated with autism spectrum disorders, the program provides comprehensive evaluation and one-on-one training to support individuals in preparing for the Illinois Road Test.
“There is no single pathway to becoming a driver, and meeting each learner where they are can make a tremendous difference,” said Monica Scalise, MS, OTR/L, CDRS, occupational therapist and certified driver rehabilitation specialist at Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital. “Our therapists already support individuals on the autism spectrum, but this program was designed to be even more specialized. By considering processing differences, sensory needs and even heightened anxiety, we create individualized plans that build confidence, independence and practical driving skills.”
A Structured, Tiered Approach
Led by certified driver rehabilitation specialists with advanced training, the Driver Rehabilitation for People with Austim program begins with in-depth assessments to determine readiness and identify sensory or other processing needs. Each participant is then matched to a tiered level of support designed to meet their individual goals.
Training may include classroom instruction, visual scanning and rules‑of‑the‑road education, structured passenger activities and behind‑the‑wheel lessons. Participants typically start in controlled environments, such as parking lots or Marianjoy’s campus roadways, before progressing, when appropriate, to community driving and more complex traffic situations.
Parents and caregivers are an essential part of the process, with instructors providing guidance for supervised driving practice and structured home training to reinforce skills outside of sessions.
“Consistency across environments is critical,” Scalise said. “Using familiar routines, language and vehicles helps reduce anxiety and supports carryover.”
Preparing for the Road Test
Participants in the program follow the same permit and licensing process as any driver in Illinois. As individuals work toward road testing, Marianjoy’s team also provides preparation focused on predictability, confidence and familiarity with the testing process. When appropriate, the program helps coordinate accommodations allowed by the Illinois Secretary of State, such as use of a familiar vehicle during the road test.
Christian Callaway of St. Charles, a 22‑year‑old on the autism spectrum, recently passed the Illinois road test after completing training with Marianjoy’s driver rehabilitation team. Callaway enrolled in the program after demonstrating a strong interest in cars from an early age.
“As a child, Christian learned everything he could about cars – from diffrent makes and models to their mechanics and maintenance – so having access to this program was exciting for our family,”said Peter Callaway, Christian’s father. “The structure of the program helped break the process into manageable steps. We always knew what the focus was and how to practice between sessions.”
“I just love it,” Christian added, referring to his interest in all things cars.
Scalise led Christian through a hybrid training approach through 18 sessions, working on everything from basic driving skills to navigating community roads and planning routes, with consistent involvement and encouragement from his family.
Ahead of of his road test, Christian felt confident and excited. “I was ready for it,” he said.
Driving as a Pathway to Independence
For many individuals on the autism spectrum, driving represents increased independence, access to employment, and greater participation in their community. Marianjoy’s program is designed to support those goals without placing unnecessary pressure on timelines.
“Many families don’t realize specialized driver rehabilitation programs exist,” Scalise said. “We want people to know there are options and that driving preparation can happen in a thoughtful, supportive way.”
About Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital
Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital is a nationally recognized leader in medical rehabilitation, providing comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services for adults and children. Marianjoy’s driver rehabilitation program offers clinical evaluations, structured training and adaptive solutions to promote safe, independent mobility.Marianjoy Hospital’s state‑certified Driver Rehabilitation Program provides highly regarded, comprehensive driving education for individuals with disabilities, delivered by Illinois‑certified driver rehabilitation specialists and instructors using a customizable fleet of adaptive vehicles to support driving independence.
