Parents and Caregivers of Autistic Teens and Adults
Each year, many families across the U.S. learn that their child is autistic. As autistic children grow into teens and adults, families often seek clearer information about education, employment, transportation, and independent or semi-independent living options.
Many parents are eager for practical, strengths-based guidance that can support their teen or adult child in pursuing college, vocational training, employment, and meaningful participation in their community—whether that includes living independently, with family, or with other supports in place.
Autistic Teens and Adults
Behind the Wheel with ASD is also written for autistic teens and adults themselves, including #ActuallyAutistic readers. Some autistic people are interested in driving, others are unsure, and some decide it isn’t the right choice for them—and all of these perspectives are valid.
For those who want to explore driving as a tool for increased mobility or independence, this book offers practical strategies, accommodations, and insights to help you decide whether driving fits your goals and, if so, how to approach it in a way that works for your learning style and sensory needs.
Driving Specialists and Healthcare Professionals
Behind the Wheel with Autism will appeal to vocational rehabilitation counselors and driving specialists with the Division of Rehabilitation Services, driving instructors at every high school and driving school in the country, pediatricians, occupational therapists, and other professionals who support autistic learners.
Many well-intentioned driver educators receive limited training in autism and neurodivergent learning styles. As a result, they may misinterpret autistic communication, sensory responses, or processing differences as lack of effort or motivation. This book provides context and tools to better understand autistic drivers and to teach in ways that are more effective, respectful, and accessible.
Communities and Resources
Autism identification has increased significantly over the past two decades, reflecting improved awareness, broader diagnostic criteria, and better access to evaluation—particularly in historically underserved communities. Current CDC data highlights the importance of building systems that support autistic people across the lifespan.
Access to transportation is a key equity issue. When autistic teens and adults have options—whether driving, public transit, or other supports—they are better positioned to access education, employment, healthcare, and community life. Supporting mobility is not about reducing a “burden,” but about expanding opportunity and inclusion.
This book is aimed at improving that access.
While fully autonomous vehicles may still be years away, (see my articles How Soon Will Fully Self-Driving Cars Actually Arrive? here and What Fully Self-Driving Cars Could Mean for Parents and Caregivers of Autistic Teens and Adults here.) transportation remains a reality for most families. Parents often rely on driving for work, school, errands, and social connection.
For neurodivergent individuals, limited transportation options can create additional planning challenges and costs. Whether someone chooses to drive or use alternative transportation, having accessible, realistic options can make a meaningful difference in attending classes, maintaining employment, and participating in social life.
Join me next time as I dig into Chapter 1. We’ll begin with the Driving Barrier Checklists (one from professionals such as researchers, driving instructors, and therapists, one from autistic teens and adults themselves, and one from their families) I include all three viewpoints for completeness.