The California DMV can require a cognitive evaluation when a driver’s safety is in question due to age-related changes, memory loss, or a medical condition. As a licensed occupational therapist in California, I provide remote MoCA cognitive screenings to help families and physicians determine if further DMV evaluation is needed — with results delivered within 24 hours.
Having changes in memory, processing, or vision are all reasons to be evaluated to drive.
If you’re the caregiver of an aging loved one, you may be wondering how to tell if they are experiencing changes in cognition. Or perhaps you are concerned about their memory loss and want to know whether it is normal, or if their symptoms warrant further investigation.
I screen for dementia and other forms of cognitive impairment to help you understand any possible changes in memory, executive functioning, language, vision, and more.
After completing a short 15-20 minute assessment, I can identify areas of concern to help determine if your safe to drive.
What does a cognition screening include?
- A short and comprehensive cognition screening
- An assessment for your physician or neurologist
- DMV report
- Recommendations to be able to drive
How Cognition testing can help?
Cognition testing can help you know if your loved one is safe to live alone or be on the road. It can be used to screen for dementia, as well as other cognitive impairments that affect decision-making. The results of this assessment are used to determine whether your loved one needs assistance with daily tasks like driving, finances, medication management, meal preparation, and more.
As a healthcare practitioner, I understand how stressful it is for caregivers who worry about their loved one’s ability to live independently—and I want to help relieve some of that stress by helping you identify potential issues early on so that your loved one can get the care they need before it becomes too late!
Cognition Testing in California
I am the premiere provider of cognition testing services in California. I offer screening services to help identify cognitive impairment and dementia in patients so you can make informed decisions about their care.
I do not contract or work with the DMV, but I can perform a simple assessment to help you determine if further evaluation is needed by the California DMV or by a driver rehab specialist.
How much does it cost?
The cost of the evaluation depends on how it’s performed. Below is a price list for each assessment.
What do I need to do?
After purchasing the assessment, I’ll email you to complete the assessment. I’ll either meet in person or over the phone. A caregiver or family member will need to be present.
I’ve had years of experience providing these services, and I’m happy to help you as you seek to care for your loved one. Contact me today for more information on this service or click the link below to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions — Cognitive Testing for California DMV
Can the California DMV require a cognitive test?
Yes — the California DMV can require a cognitive evaluation as part of a driver reexamination. This is triggered when a physician files a Report of a Medical Condition (form DS 326), when the DMV receives a report of unsafe driving, or when a driver is involved in an accident that raises safety concerns. The DMV may then require a behind-the-wheel test, vision test, or cognitive evaluation before allowing the driver to continue driving.
What cognitive test does the California DMV use?
The California DMV does not administer cognitive tests directly — they refer drivers to their physician or a specialist for evaluation. The MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment) is the most widely accepted screening tool used by healthcare providers to assess cognitive function for driving safety. A score below 26 out of 30 may indicate cognitive impairment that affects driving ability and warrants further evaluation.
Who can perform a cognitive assessment for DMV purposes in California?
Licensed occupational therapists, neuropsychologists, and physicians can perform cognitive assessments for DMV driving evaluation purposes in California. Occupational therapists are uniquely qualified because we evaluate how cognitive changes affect functional performance — including complex tasks like driving. A certified driver rehabilitation specialist (CDRS) can also perform comprehensive behind-the-wheel driving evaluations.
How long does a cognitive assessment take?
A standard MoCA cognitive screening takes 15-20 minutes to complete. The full assessment including history review, scoring, and report preparation typically takes about an hour. Results and recommendations are provided within 24 hours of completing the assessment. The assessment can be completed remotely via video call with a caregiver or family member present.
What happens if someone fails a cognitive driving test?
A low score on a cognitive screening does not automatically mean someone loses their license. It means further evaluation is recommended. Next steps typically include a referral to a neurologist for comprehensive evaluation, a behind-the-wheel assessment with a driver rehabilitation specialist, or DMV reexamination. In some cases adaptive equipment or driving restrictions (daylight only, local roads only) allow someone to continue driving safely.
Can I get a cognitive assessment done remotely in California?
Yes — cognitive screening assessments like the MoCA can be completed remotely via video call. This is especially helpful for families whose loved one cannot easily travel to a clinic. A caregiver or family member should be present during the remote assessment. The results, report, and DMV recommendations are provided within 24 hours of completing the assessment.
Does insurance cover cognitive testing for DMV evaluation?
Most insurance plans including Medicare do not cover cognitive assessments specifically requested for DMV driving evaluation purposes. The assessment is typically an out-of-pocket expense. However if the assessment is ordered by a physician as part of a medical evaluation for dementia or cognitive impairment, insurance may cover a portion of the cost. Contact your insurance provider to verify coverage before scheduling.
🧠 Book Your Remote Cognitive Assessment Today
Get a professional MoCA cognitive screening from a licensed occupational therapist — completed remotely via video call. Results and DMV report provided within 24 hours. A caregiver or family member should be present during the assessment.
Book Your Assessment Now