Mobility scooters and the Highway Code: Rules every user should know

The newfound freedom and independence you’ll experience when owning a mobility scooter is empowering.

Yet with the excitement comes a few things you should know about driving your new or used machine into town and around the shops.

While nothing to worry about, the Highway Code does have clear rules you must follow on using your mobility scooter or powered wheelchair in public areas – covering both pavement and road use.

So if you’ve ever wondered whether you need a driving licence to use a Class 3 mobility scooter, the speed limit for scooters on the road and pavement, or if mobility scooters are allowed on dual carriageways – this guide will make it all clear.

The three classes of mobility scooters and wheelchairs

Under UK law, wheelchairs and mobility scooters are split into three classes:

• Class 1: Manual wheelchairs are propelled by you or your helper. They don’t have a motor so don’t need charging, and as they’re not allowed on the road they just have to follow the rules covering normal pedestrian rights.
• Class 2: Powered wheelchairs and small mobility scooters have a maximum speed of 4 mph, and are designed to be used exclusively on pavements and in pedestrian areas.
• Class 3: Larger mobility scooters have a maximum speed of 8 mph on the road, but are limited to 4 mph on pavements. As they’re road legal they must be registered with the DVLA.

Do you need a driving licence?

No, you do not need a driving licence to ride a mobility scooter or powered wheelchair in the UK. These vehicles are exempt from normal driver licensing rules.

However, you do need to be old enough to drive the larger ones. While there is no minimum age requirement to ride a Class 2 scooter – Class 3 models require the driver to be at least 14 years old.

You should also be able to safely control your scooter, which means some people may benefit from a short training session before using their new machine.

Do you need insurance for a mobility scooter?

While you don’t legally need to have Insurance for your mobility scooter in the UK, here at TGA we strongly recommended it.

A comprehensive policy can cover you for theft, damage, and third-party liability if you injure someone or damage their property.

That’s why for complete peace of mind, the experts at TGA have partnered with Fish Insurance to offer you some of the best cover in the industry.

Using a mobility scooter on the pavement

The Highway Code says that pavements are safer than roads for mobility scooters, and you should stay on the pavement when available.

In this context, here are some rules to remember:

• A speed limit of 4 mph applies on pavements for Class 2 scooters, and when Class 3 scooters are switched to pavement mode.
• You should always give priority to pedestrians and take extra care around people with visual or hearing impairments.
• Avoid forcing pavement users into the road to get around you.
• If you need to go from the pavement onto the road, always check in all directions, use a dropped kerb if possible, and approach at a right angle.

Using a mobility scooter on the road

As mentioned, only Class 3 mobility scooters are designed to be used on the road, and come with a horn, indicators, lights, and mirrors for safety.

Class 2 scooters are not road legal and can’t be used on them (except where there’s no pavement available).

So when travelling on the road with a Class 3 scooter:

• Stick to the speed limit of 8 mph.
• Keep to the left-hand side and be aware that other road users may overtake you.
• Avoid the middle of the road unless turning right at a junction.
• Use your lights, indicators, and horn when needed.

You can also use your Class 3 scooter on a dual carriageway, if the speed limit is under 50 mph. On carriageways with a speed limit over 50 mph, you must display a flashing amber beacon.

Many riders stay away from these types of roads for safety reasons, and our advice would be to avoid them altogether if at all possible.

Roads you should avoid

The Highway Code recommends avoiding major roads, fast-moving traffic, and roads with complex junctions – and so does the team here at TGA.

As a Class 3 scooter user, our advice is to look for safer side roads or pedestrian routes where possible.

Registering your scooter

As discussed, your Class 3 mobility scooter must be registered with the DVLA.

It’s free and you just need to fill out a V55/4 form, which is something our friendly customer service staff can help you with.

Your scooter will then be registered as a “Class 3 invalid carriage” and will not need road tax, an MOT, or a driving licence to operate.

If you own a Class 2 scooter then don’t worry – these do not need to be registered.

Safety & courtesy

The rules for driving a mobility scooter or powered wheelchair focus on safety for both you and other road and pavement users.

The main guidance is:

• Keep your scooter well maintained. Your tyres, brakes, and battery should all be in good working order.
• Be visible, especially at night, by using lights or wearing reflective clothing.
• Don’t overload the scooter with shopping or passengers (unless it’s a dual-seat design).

Be aware that other road users may not always see you, especially at junctions or when overtaking.

Key points from the Highway Code

At a glance, here are the main takeaways from the Highway Code for mobility scooter and powered wheelchair users:

• Always use the pavement when it’s available.
• Switch to 4 mph in pedestrian areas.
• When going onto the road, use a drop kerb and check your surroundings carefully.
• On the road, follow the same rules as cyclists and slow-moving vehicles.
• Avoid dual carriageways with a speed limit over 50 mph unless you have the correct beacon, (we advise to avoid them completely if you can).
• Class 3 vehicles are equipped to be used on both roads (max 8 mph) and pavements (max 4 mph), so use the right mode for each.
• Class 2 users should always stick to pavements unless it’s unavoidable.

Mobility scooter laws: Summary table

Manual wheelchairs and powered wheelchairs

Although we’re focusing mainly on Class 2 and Class 3 scooters in this guide, it’s worth noting that if you own a manual wheelchair then these follow pedestrian rules.

This means you can use pavements, pedestrian crossings, and footpaths without restriction.

Powered wheelchairs fall under Class 2 or Class 3 rules depending on their speed and design, so they must follow the same Highway Code rules outlined above for powered mobility scooters.

The Highway Code & mobility scooters: Final tips for safe use

The UK’s mobility scooter laws are designed to make sure both pavement users and road users stay safe.

Whether you have a Class 2 or Class 3 scooter, following the rules and regulations of the Highway Code means you can enjoy your independence without putting yourself or others at risk.

Points to remember:

• Read the Highway Code for mobility scooters before taking your scooter on the road.
• Practise turning in tight spaces and stopping quickly so you’re a confident rider.
• If you’re buying a new mobility scooter, choose one suited to your regular routes. If you live in town and rarely use the road, a Class 2 model may be better.
• Mobility scooter safety isn’t just about following laws, it’s about being considerate to other scooter users, pedestrians and road users.

In this context, our friendly team is standing by to help you choose the right scooter to fit your lifestyle.

To arrange a free demonstration at either our Suffolk or Surrey showrooms, call now on 0800 107 5349 and we’ll be happy to book you in.