Driver's Education Classes

In the spring of 2019, Ann Arbor Academy hosted driver's education classes designed to help autistic high school students and young adults learn to drive in a supportive, safe environment. The classes were sponsored by the Ford Motor Company, and run through a study conducted by the University of Michigan to determine whether or not using a driving simulator would help prepare autistic drivers for the challenges of the road.

There has been a lot of interest in continuing these classes, but the University of Michigan has not been able to continue with its study. However, Ann Arbor Academy is working with the Ann Arbor Driving School, who taught the first round of classes, to bring specialized driver's ed classes to the school on a regular basis.

Classes are open to any individual who wishes to learn to drive, but the classes are geared toward meeting the needs of high school students and young adults with autism. They are smaller than average, meet for more sessions than usual, have more driving time built in, and take into account sensory needs. The instructors have experience with teaching students on the autism spectrum. There is no age limit. Students must be physically able to operate a car, and be able to communicate with instructors in class and during driving practice. 

Only Session 1 is offered at Ann Arbor Academy, and the current cost is $1,050. Session 2 classes can be scheduled directly through the Ann Arbor Driving School.

Click here to put your name on our interest list to be contacted when a new session is scheduled.