Simple Guide to the Motability Scheme
Helping You Stay Mobile with Confidence
🚗 What Is the Motability Scheme?
The Motability Scheme lets you use your mobility benefit to lease a car, scooter, powered wheelchair, or Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV). It’s designed to help people with disabilities travel more easily and independently.
🧾 Who Can Use the Scheme?
You may be eligible if you receive one of these benefits and have at least 12 months left on your award:
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Enhanced Rate Mobility Component
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
Higher Rate Mobility Component
War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS)
Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
Adult Disability Payment (Scotland)
Enhanced Rate Mobility- Child Disability Payment (Scotland)
Higher Rate Mobility
If you’re unsure, ask your OT or check your benefit letter.
📉 What Happens If Your Benefit Ends?
If your benefit stops, you’ll need to return the vehicle. Motability will help with this and may offer support payments or a refund of any advance payment.
👵 Eligibility After Retirement
There is no upper age limit for joining the Motability Scheme. However:
• You must already be receiving a qualifying mobility allowance (like PIP, DLA, WPMS, AFIP) before reaching state pension age.
• If you apply for benefits after retirement, you’ll likely be offered Attendance Allowance, which does not qualify for Motability.
If you are already on PIP or DLA when you retire, then you can continue using the scheme as long as your award remains valid.
📦 What’s Included in the Scheme?
When you lease a vehicle through Motability, the following are covered:
✅ Insurance – for up to 3 named drivers
✅ Servicing and MOTs
✅ Breakdown cover
✅ Road tax
✅ Adaptations – many are free
✅ Battery and tyre replacement (for scooters/powered wheelchairs)
You only need to pay for:
– Fuel
– Optional extras
– Any Advance Payment (if your chosen vehicle costs more than your allowance).
🚙 Types of Vehicles Available
The are lots of vehicles to choose from, including:
– Small cars – easy to park and drive.
– SUVs – higher seating and more internal space.
– Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) – travel while seated in your wheelchair
– Scooters and powered wheelchairs – for shorter journeys
Your OT or dealer can help you choose what suits your needs best.
🧠 Extra Support for People with Brain Injuries or Cognitive Challenges
Motability-accredited dealerships typically have Motability Specialists trained to support people with cognitive challenges. These specialists can:
• Offer extra time during appointments
• Use visual aids and simplified explanations
• Help with paperwork and adaptations
You can find a local dealer using the official Motability Dealer Finder.
When booking, ask if they have experience supporting clients with brain injuries or cognitive needs.
🚗 Vehicle Delivery Times
Delivery can vary greatly depending on the model and manufacturer. While some vehicles in stock may be delivered within a few weeks, factory orders or less common models can take several months or even up to a ye
ar due to supply chain issues and manufacturing delays.
Ask your dealer if the vehicle is in stock or a factory order, and request an estimated delivery time.
📝 How to Apply
1. Check your eligibility online: Am I eligible to join the Scheme? | Motability Scheme
2. Choose a vehicle – visit a dealer All Motability Scheme dealers | The Motability Scheme
3. Provide documents:
– Driving license or passport
– National Insurance number
– Benefit award letter
4. Place your order – the dealer will help with paperwork.
5. Wait for confirmation – usually takes about 2 weeks.
6. Vehicle delivery – can take several months or longer if the model is not in stock.
📞 Need Help?
Motability Customer Services: 0300 456 4566
Motability Foundation Resources: Professionals and Advisors
Your OT or support worker can help with applications and choosing the right vehicle.