How to Become a Certified Hand Control Installer

Hand controls are installed by mobility technicians for drivers with disabilities.

Hand controls allow people to drive a vehicle without using their feet. Mobility technicians adapt automobiles to the needs of disabled drivers and passengers; if certified, mobility technicians can install hand controls. Mobility technicians must have prior automotive, electrical or metal fabrication work experience. Training and certification for hand controls is given by the manufacturer of the products sold at a mobility adaption install shop.

Instructions

1. Apply for a job as a mobility technician at a company or dealership that adapts automobiles for use by drivers with disabilities. The mobility industry does not offer a technical school for training. The dealer will train you to be a technician on the job.

2. Attend the hand control installer certification course offered by the manufacturer whose product is sold by the dealer. Review training materials and practice the installation of hand controls at the manufacturer's site.

3. Pass any exams required to receive certification as a hand control installer.

Tips & Warnings

• Mobility technicians must be certified by the manufacturer to install each product offered by the dealer.

References

• Mobility Works
• National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association: Hand Controls for Disabled Drivers
• James Norris, General Manager, Adaptive Driving Access, December 9, 2010.

Resources

• Adaptive Driving Access
• National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association