Thursday 29 April 9.00-10.00pm BBC THREE

Most teenagers want to learn how to drive. It represents a coming of age, a new beginning and a sense of freedom, but it is a daunting and stressful experience for even the calmest of individuals – and much more so for those with autism.

For some young people on the autistic spectrum, learning to drive represents the independence they often find so difficult to achieve in the rest of their lives. Many autistic people cannot cope with noisy and unreliable public transport, crowds or even being looked at by strangers. Learning to drive is a crucial aspect in their transition into adulthood – but it’s not easy.

This new film follows a group of young people on the autistic spectrum all coping in different ways with their condition, and at different stages on their journey towards learning to drive.

From first lessons to taking theory and practical tests, the programme captures the highs and lows of their experiences, revealing how varied and surprising autism can be.

The programme introduces 22-year-old twins Lucy and Lizzy, who share everything in life, including their driving lessons. After three and a half years with their instructor, they are ready to take their tests.

Karting enthusiast Chris was diagnosed with semantic pragmatic disorder when he was very young, but is a super-confident driver. He is booked in for his practical test but has a tendency to drive too fast.

David and Laura are complete beginners but hope that learning to drive will help their career prospects and personal lives.

The programme also examines what life is like for people with autism who already have their driving licences. Sarah, 26, passed her test first time in 2004 – but she’s too scared to drive. Her Asperger syndrome means that she is full of anxiety and terrified of crashing, but she is desperate to get back behind the wheel.

Julia is the only driving instructor in the UK to have been diagnosed with Asperger syndrome. She’s studying for two degrees and is a member of Mensa. The programme discovers how a new student fares under her guidance.

Taking a driving test is something that everyone can relate to – but a rite of passage many people may take for granted.

This programme is part of a ground-breaking series of films about young people with autism. These warm and insightful programmes explore the complex lives of these young people as well as the challenges they face.