For individuals across the UK living with a disability or a long-term health condition, accessing a new car, scooter, or wheelchair-accessible vehicle has been made more straightforward through the Motability Scheme.
This initiative, managed by Motability Operations, enables those receiving specific state benefits to use their mobility allowance to lease a new vehicle, covering a wide range of transport needs.
Which Benefits Qualify for the Scheme?
It is crucial to understand that not all benefits make you eligible. You must be receiving the enhanced or higher rate of the mobility component of certain allowances. Furthermore, you need to have at least 12 months remaining on your benefit award at the time you apply.
You can verify this by checking the award length on your official benefit award letter or by contacting your benefits provider directly.
The full list of qualifying benefits includes:
- Enhanced rate of the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Enhanced rate of the mobility component of Adult Disability Payment (Scotland-only)
- Higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
- War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement (WPMS)
- Higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment (Scotland-only)
Benefits That Do Not Qualify
Guidance from the Motability Scheme is clear that you will not be eligible if you only receive the standard or lower rate of the mobility allowance.
Additionally, receiving the following benefits alone does not grant eligibility for the scheme:
- Carer's Allowance
- Attendance Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
If you believe your circumstances might entitle you to a qualifying mobility allowance, the scheme advises you to speak directly to your benefits provider.
How to Apply for Your New Vehicle
If you meet the eligibility criteria, there are two primary ways to apply for the Motability Scheme.
Applying through a dealership is a popular option if you are looking for a car, scooter, or powered wheelchair. You can visit any participating car dealership, and their staff will assist you with the entire order process. For those needing a wheelchair-accessible vehicle or specific adaptations, suppliers can often come to your location to help complete the order.
When applying with a dealer, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- The applicant's National Insurance Number or Customer Reference Number
- A grant award letter, if applicable
- Driving licences for all nominated drivers and details of any claims history
- A driver declaration if the main driver is not present during the application
- The applicant's valid UK passport or driving licence for identification
Applying online offers more flexibility and time to decide on the perfect vehicle for your needs. This is done through your personal Motability Scheme account.
The online application requires:
- The applicant's UK passport or driving licence
- The applicant's National Insurance Number or Customer Reference Number
It is important to note that depending on the vehicle you select, an upfront payment may be required. A significant advantage of the scheme is that it typically includes insurance, servicing, maintenance, and breakdown cover, simplifying the overall cost of mobility.
