u/ImReellySmart

Is it worth mentioning I have autism if it doesn't interfere much?

I am 28 and currently learning automatic.

I am about to sit my second test this week.

My instructor mentioned recently that it may be worth casually mentioning at the beginning of my test that I have autism.

Upon meeting me it's not something you would quickly pick up on (or so I tell myself, lol!).

My instructors observation was that, during reversing/ 3 point turns, he knows by now that I know what I'm doing, but due to my autism I often tend to function quite one dimensionally which can mislead the tester into thinking I'm confused or unprepared. Although I am "ticking all the boxes" I sometimes don't appear fluid in my actions.

But I have a few thoughts on this.

I feel as though the blanket statement of "by the way I have autism" doesn't really benefit me as without context the tester wouldn't really know what to be mindful of, nor do I want to come across like I'm unconfident and want leniency.

So if I were to mention it, I was thinking it might be good to include context along the lines of "it doesn't interfere with my abilities behind the wheel, however my instructor noted that during my reversing/ 3 point turns, I can often look rigid/ one-dimensional although I know the procedure".

But then I'm thinking this could just sort of bring extra unwanted attention to my reversing/ 3 point turns, and again, may sound like I am seeking unjust leniency.

Yes, I may be overthinking it, but, well, I have autism lol. Welcome to my world.

Curious to hear others thoughts/ personal experiences on this.

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u/ImReellySmart — 4 days ago