Motability eligibility criteria for mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs

If you’re looking to lease a mobility scooter or powered wheelchair through the Motability Scheme, the first step is checking whether you’re eligible.
While most people think of the scheme as being just for cars, it also supports thousands of people across the UK with mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs, enhancing their freedom and independence.
This article breaks down the eligibility criteria for accessing a mobility scooter or powered wheelchair through Motability and outlines TGA’s eligible models for you to choose from.

What the Motability Scheme offers for scooter and wheelchair users

If you’re eligible, the Motability Scheme allows you to exchange your mobility allowance for a fully maintained lease on a new mobility scooter or powered wheelchair. This includes:

• Full servicing and maintenance.
• Tyre and battery replacement.
• Breakdown recovery (including at home).
• Insurance for accidental damage and theft.

The scheme offers peace of mind and makes budgeting simpler, as all ongoing costs are covered by your allowance.

Motability scooters & wheelchairs from TGA Mobility

TGA has over 30 years of experience in the mobility industry, and many of our market-leading models are available under the Motability scheme.

• Click here to see how TGA can help you choose a scooter through the programme.
• See our range of Motability eligible scooters here.
• View our collection of Motability eligible powerchairs here.

Who qualifies for a mobility scooter or powered wheelchair on Motability?

To be eligible, you must be receiving one of the following qualifying mobility allowances:

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

• You must be awarded the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component (currently £75.75 per week).
• The daily living component on its own is not enough.
• You must have at least 12 months remaining on your award.

If you’ve applied for PIP but are waiting for a decision, or have less than a year on your current award, you’ll need to wait until that’s resolved before applying for the Motability scheme.

Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

• You must be receiving the Higher Rate Mobility Component.
• You’ll also need at least 12 months left on your award.

Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)

• Automatically qualifies you, as it includes mobility support.

War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS)

• Paid to veterans with injuries impacting mobility.

All of these are government-funded mobility allowances. You can only use the mobility component of these benefits for leasing scooters or powered wheelchairs under Motability.

Reasons you cannot join the scheme

Some benefits don’t qualify you for a Motability scooter or powered wheelchair, even if you have difficulty walking or need support. These include:

Attendance Allowance

Does not include a mobility component, so it doesn’t meet the scheme’s requirements.

PIP Daily Living Component Only

You must receive the mobility part, not just help with personal care.

Short-term or temporary awards

You must have a minimum of 12 months remaining on your award. Anything less will not qualify.

How long your allowance needs to run?

One of the most common reasons you could be delayed from joining the Motability scheme is not having enough time left on your benefit.
It’s worth mentioning again that to lease a scooter or powered wheelchair through Motability, you must have 12 months or more remaining on your qualifying benefit.
If your benefit is up for review or pending reassessment, it’s best to wait until your updated award letter comes through before applying.

How to join the Motability Scheme if you’re eligible

Step 1: Check your benefit

Make sure it’s one of the qualifying ones mentioned above, with at least 12 months remaining.

Step 2: Choose your product

Find a suitable mobility scooter or powered wheelchair. A Motability-accredited dealer like TGA Mobility will help you match your condition, weight, and daily usage needs to the right model.

Step 3: Complete the paperwork

Your dealer will assist with your Motability application and confirm eligibility through your National Insurance number.

Step 4: Receive your scooter or wheelchair

The weekly cost of your scooter or wheelchair will be deducted directly from your mobility allowance. Servicing, insurance, breakdown, and repairs are all covered.

What you can lease on the Motability Scheme

If you meet the eligibility criteria as outlined above, you can lease:

• Class 2 mobility scooters (up to 4mph, pavement use only).
• Class 3 mobility scooters (up to 8mph, are road legal).
• Powered wheelchairs (indoors and outdoors, joystick controlled).

All leased equipment comes with full cover, and you can switch models after three years.
The friendly team at TGA can answer any questions you might have about the scheme, and suggest a qualifying mobility scooter or powered wheelchair to fit your lifestyle.

FAQs about Motability scooter and wheelchair eligibility

Can I get a powered wheelchair if I don’t drive?

Yes. You do not need a driving licence or driving experience, just a qualifying mobility benefit.

Can I lease a scooter for someone else?

Yes, as long as they’re receiving a qualifying allowance. A carer or family member can act as their appointee.

What if I lose my PIP award during the lease?

The equipment will usually be returned, but you may have options depending on the situation. Speak to Motability as soon as your benefit status changes.

Can I apply for PIP just to access the scheme?

Yes. If you meet the criteria, it’s worth applying. As discussed, the enhanced mobility rate opens the door to leasing a mobility scooter or powered wheelchair.

Final thoughts on Motability eligibility for scooters and powered wheelchairs

In this article, we’ve covered the most commonly asked questions about the Motability scheme eligibility criteria. However, if you have any further queries, the experts at TGA are standing by to help.

To discuss the scheme or test drive of any of our qualifying Motability models, simply call us today on 0800 107 5349, and we can book you a convenient demonstration at either our Suffolk or Surrey showrooms.