Motability: Your UK Mobility Car Guide

For millions across the United Kingdom, maintaining independence and the freedom to travel is paramount. However, for those living with disabilities or long-term illnesses, getting around can present significant challenges. This is where the Motability Scheme steps in, offering a lifeline by transforming qualifying disability benefits into accessible vehicle leases. It's a charitable initiative designed to provide worry-free motoring, ensuring that your mobility allowance works directly for your personal transport needs, allowing you to access a brand-new car, a mobility scooter, or even a powered wheelchair without the burdens of ownership.

Understanding the Motability Scheme

At its core, the Motability Scheme is a charity-run programme that enables people with disabilities to lease a new vehicle by exchanging part or all of their qualifying mobility allowance. It's crucial to understand that you won't own the vehicle; instead, you'll be leasing it for a set period, typically three years for cars. This lease model is designed to simplify vehicle access, covering many of the costs associated with running a vehicle, which we'll delve into shortly.

The scheme offers a wide array of vehicles to suit diverse needs, ranging from standard cars to Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs), as well as mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs. The primary goal is to provide a comprehensive, all-inclusive package that removes the typical financial and administrative stresses of vehicle ownership, allowing beneficiaries to focus on their mobility and independence.

Are You Eligible for a Motability Vehicle?

Eligibility for the Motability Scheme hinges on receiving specific disability benefits at certain rates. If you have been awarded one of the following, you could qualify:

• The higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
• The enhanced rate of the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
• War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
• The enhanced rate of the mobility component of Adult Disability Payment (for Scotland)
• The higher rate mobility component of Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance
• The higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment (for children aged 3 and over)

A critical requirement is that you must have at least 12 months remaining on your benefit before it ends. This ensures continuity for the lease agreement. It's always advisable to check your benefit decision letter if you're unsure about your remaining benefit period. It's also important to note that if you are currently receiving DLA and have been invited by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to apply for PIP, you generally cannot apply for a new Motability vehicle until your PIP assessment is complete. However, if you already have a Motability vehicle, this transition process will not immediately affect your current lease.

Navigating the DLA to PIP Transition

A significant change for many has been the move from DLA to PIP. If you are reassessed for PIP and do not qualify for the enhanced rate mobility component, you will unfortunately need to return your Motability vehicle. This return typically needs to happen within 8 weeks of your DLA payments stopping, or within 26 weeks if you joined the scheme before 2014. To ease this transition, Motability may offer a one-off payment, known as 'transitional support', depending on the vehicle's condition and your original join date. Should you believe your PIP decision is incorrect, it's worth remembering that many decisions are overturned on appeal, potentially allowing you to re-qualify for the scheme.

The Motability Package: What's Included?

One of the most appealing aspects of the Motability Scheme is its comprehensive package. When you lease a vehicle through Motability, your monthly lease payment, which comes directly from your qualifying benefit, covers a wide range of essential motoring costs. This means you don't have to worry about many of the unexpected expenses that come with car ownership. Here’s a breakdown of what’s included:

This comprehensive coverage means that you won't face unexpected bills for routine checks, repairs, or even flat tyres. The scheme aims to make motoring as accessible and stress-free as possible, allowing individuals to enjoy the full benefits of independent travel.

Navigating the Application Process

Getting a Motability vehicle is a structured process designed to be as straightforward as possible. Here are the steps you'll typically follow:

1. Prepare Your Documents

Before you begin, gather the necessary documents. You will need:

• Your identification, such as a driving licence or passport.
• Your certificate of entitlement from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
• Proof of address, like a council tax bill or a bank statement from the last six months.
• If you will be driving the car, your driving licence.

2. Find a Motability Dealer

You can locate a Motability-approved dealer near you through the Motability website, which has a handy dealer search tool. Alternatively, you can call the Motability helpline. Bear in mind that Monday mornings between 9 am and 11 am can be particularly busy, so calling outside of these hours might save you waiting time.

3. Visit the Dealership

Once you’ve found a dealer, arrange an appointment with their Motability specialist. If getting to the dealership is difficult, ask if they can arrange a home visit or assist with transport. During your visit, you'll complete a questionnaire to help identify the best vehicle for your needs. It’s vital to discuss any potential adaptations you might require, as many are offered free of charge. If you use a wheelchair or other mobility aid, bring it along to ensure it fits comfortably in your chosen vehicle. Don't hesitate to visit multiple dealers if you're not satisfied with the initial selection; different dealerships may have varying options.

4. Order Your Vehicle

After selecting your ideal vehicle, you can place your order at the dealership. You'll need to present your previously gathered documents. Approximately two weeks after ordering, you'll receive a confirmation letter by post. This letter is important as it contains your Personal Identification Number (PIN), which you'll need when you collect your vehicle.

5. Collect Your Vehicle and Sign the Lease

On collection day, you’ll finalise your lease agreement by entering your PIN at the dealership. If getting to the dealer for collection is challenging, you may be able to arrange for your vehicle to be delivered to your home.

Financial Considerations and Advance Payments

As mentioned, your qualifying benefit will be paid directly to the Motability Scheme each month to cover your lease. The amount of your benefit that goes towards the vehicle will depend on the model you choose. For more expensive vehicles, you will likely need to make an Advance Payment upfront. This is a one-off, non-refundable payment, not a deposit, made at the time of ordering or collection. If you find yourself needing help with this payment, the Motability charity website offers more information on potential financial assistance, depending on your individual circumstances.

Driving Your Motability Vehicle

The Motability Scheme is designed to provide mobility for the eligible individual, but it also offers flexibility regarding who can drive the vehicle.

Named Drivers

You can nominate up to two people to drive on your behalf, in addition to yourself if you drive. These Named Drivers can include immediate family members, trusted friends, or even a carer. The vehicle must always be used 'for the benefit of the customer', meaning the disabled person must be the primary user of the vehicle or have access to it for their personal use. While the named driver can use the car, it cannot be operated as a taxi or for delivery services.

Business Use Restrictions

Using your Motability vehicle for work purposes is generally restricted. The standard insurance covers social, domestic, pleasure purposes, and commuting to and from a permanent, fixed place of work. However, for certain business activities, such as being a travelling salesperson, you might be allowed to use the vehicle but will need to obtain specific permission from RSA Motability. You must contact them directly, either in writing or by phone, to request a 'Business Use Application Form'. It is strictly prohibited to use the vehicle as a taxi or for delivery services of any kind.

RSA Motability Contact Details:

PO Box 40
New Hall Place
Old Hall Street
Liverpool
L69 3SD

Telephone: 0300 037 3737
Textphone: (No number provided in source, just 'Textphone:')
Monday to Friday, 8 am to 7 pm, Saturday 8 am to 4 pm

Mileage Limits and Lease Extensions

Motability vehicles typically come with a mileage allowance of 60,000 miles over a 36-month lease period. If you anticipate exceeding this, or if your mileage is significantly lower, it’s worth discussing options with Motability. If your odometer reads fewer than 15,000 miles during your lease, you may even be eligible for a lease extension for an extra year or two.

Driving Lessons and Licence Points

You can use your Motability car for behind-the-wheel tuition if you are the Motability Plan customer or an assigned driver under the scheme. However, the accompanying passenger must be at least 21 years old and have at least three years of driving experience. When applying for a Motability vehicle, it's crucial to be upfront about any points on your licence for yourself or any other prospective drivers in the household, especially if the total is six or more. You must also inform the insurance company of any points accrued throughout the leasing term, as failing to do so could breach your lease agreement.

Other Important Driving Rules

• Smoking: It is strictly forbidden to smoke inside your Motability vehicle.
• Damage: While normal wear and tear are covered, additional fees may be charged for any required repairs due to significant damage beyond what is considered normal.

When Your Lease Ends or Circumstances Change

At the end of your lease period, you have the option to return the vehicle or, in some cases, apply for a lease extension if your mileage is low. If your eligibility for the qualifying benefit ceases, you will need to return the vehicle. As mentioned previously, 'transitional support' payments may be available if you lose your eligibility due to the DLA to PIP reassessment. The scheme is designed to be flexible, but adherence to its rules is essential to ensure a smooth process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can a disabled person buy a Motability car?

No, the Motability Scheme is a lease programme. You do not purchase or own the vehicle; instead, you exchange your qualifying mobility allowance for the lease of a new car, scooter, or powered wheelchair.

Is the Motability car scheme worth it?

For many, the scheme is invaluable. It provides free vehicles to eligible disabled users, covering insurance, breakdown cover, servicing, and road tax. This comprehensive package removes the significant financial and administrative burdens of vehicle ownership, making it an excellent choice for those facing transportation challenges or financial constraints.

Does the disabled person have to be in the Motability car?

The disabled person must either be the primary user of the vehicle or have access to it for their personal use. While named drivers can use the car, its purpose is always to benefit the eligible customer.

Can I drive my wife’s Motability car to work?

If you are a named driver on your wife’s Motability vehicle, you can drive it to a permanent, fixed place of work. However, using the car for certain business activities, such as a taxi or delivery service, is strictly prohibited without explicit written consent from RSA Motability.

What is the maximum age for a Motability car?

There is no maximum age to join the Motability Scheme. Eligibility is based solely on receiving a qualifying mobility allowance, regardless of age.

What automatically qualifies you for PIP?

To be eligible for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), you must generally be 16 or older, have a chronic health condition or disability that significantly impacts your daily life and ability to get around, and have experienced these difficulties for a certain period.

Can I keep my Motability car after three years?

Typically, no. However, if your odometer reads fewer than 15,000 miles during your three-year lease, you may be eligible for a lease extension for an additional year or two, subject to scheme rules.

Can you get a mobility allowance over 65?

Yes, individuals over 65 can qualify for the Motability Scheme if they receive a mobility allowance that meets the government's requirements, such as the enhanced rate of the mobility component of PIP.

Do all Motability cars have trackers?

No. It's estimated that only about 5% of Motability vehicles are GPS-enabled. If a tracking device is deemed necessary for your vehicle, you will be informed ahead of time by the scheme subscriber.

How many named drivers can you have on a Motability car?

You can have up to three named drivers on your Motability Scheme permit, including the eligible customer. These can be members of your immediate family, trusted friends, or a carer.

How many PIP points do you need to get a Motability car?

To qualify for a Motability vehicle through PIP, you need to be awarded the enhanced rate of the mobility component. This typically requires a score of 8 points or more under the 'Moving Around' activity of the PIP assessment.

Do you get free car tax with a Blue Badge?

While a Blue Badge provides parking concessions, it does not automatically grant free car tax. However, if you are a Blue Badge recipient and are eligible for specific disability benefits, you may also qualify for a road tax exemption. Motability handles the road tax for all its leased vehicles.

Can you have two cars on Motability?

Yes, there is no limit to the number of vehicles acquired under the Motability Scheme for use within a single household, provided that all applicants receive a qualifying mobility allowance independently.

Is Mercedes/Range Rover on the Motability Scheme?

Mercedes-Benz vehicles are not currently offered under the Motability programme. Range Rovers are also generally ineligible for the Motability Scheme due to rules limiting the types of cars that can join the scheme, typically based on price and suitability.

Is mobility allowance means tested?

No, mobility allowances like PIP and DLA are not means-tested. Your income, savings, or ability to pay are not considered when determining eligibility for these benefits or the Motability Scheme.

Can I use my PIP to buy a car?

You cannot use your PIP to directly buy a car, as it is a benefit for daily living and mobility needs. However, if you receive the enhanced rate of the mobility component of PIP, you can use this benefit to lease a vehicle through the Motability Scheme.

Where do ex-Motability cars get sold?

Previously owned Motability vehicles are typically sold through the dealerships that originally supplied them, or via other second-hand car dealerships and sometimes through online auction platforms.

Do Motability cars have to be brand new?

Yes, all vehicles acquired through the Motability Scheme are brand new. The scheme is designed to provide new cars, mobility scooters, and powered wheelchairs to eligible customers.

Do you get your deposit back on a Motability car?

Any required Advance Payment for a Motability car is not a deposit and is non-refundable. It is a one-off payment made upfront to cover the difference between your weekly allowance and the total cost of the vehicle you have chosen over the lease period.

At what age does mobility allowance stop?

The age at which a mobility allowance stops depends on the specific benefit. For example, DLA for children stops at 16, at which point an application for PIP is usually required. PIP has no upper age limit once awarded.

Achieving Independent Mobility

The Motability Scheme stands as a testament to the commitment to support disabled individuals in the UK. By simplifying access to transport, it provides not just a vehicle, but a gateway to greater independence, freedom, and an enhanced quality of life. From the ease of the application process to the comprehensive package that covers almost every aspect of motoring, Motability offers a truly worry-free solution for those who qualify. If you receive a qualifying mobility allowance, exploring the Motability Scheme could be your next step towards unlocking a new level of personal mobility.

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