Motability Scheme Guide
Helping you stay independent — a plain-English guide to who qualifies, how the scheme works, and the help that's available if you can't afford the Advance Payment.
What is the Motability Scheme?
The Motability Scheme helps eligible disabled people lease a new car, wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV), scooter or powered wheelchair by using part or all of their qualifying mobility benefit.
The scheme is designed to make travelling easier, helping people stay independent, attend medical appointments, go to work, do the shopping and enjoy everyday life.
Who can apply?
You may be eligible if you receive one of the following benefits:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) — Enhanced Rate Mobility Component.
- Adult Disability Payment (Scotland) — Higher Rate Mobility Component.
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) — Higher Rate Mobility Component.
- War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement (WPMS).
- Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP).
Your qualifying benefit normally needs to have enough time remaining to cover the minimum lease period.
How does the scheme work?
Instead of paying for a vehicle yourself, you exchange your qualifying mobility benefit to lease a vehicle through the Motability Scheme.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), or the relevant benefits authority, pays the qualifying mobility component directly towards the lease. That means you do not make separate monthly lease payments yourself.
What is included?
Depending on your agreement, the lease usually includes:
- A brand-new vehicle.
- Insurance for eligible drivers.
- Servicing and routine maintenance.
- Breakdown assistance.
- Tyre replacement.
- Road tax.
- Many repairs.
This makes budgeting easier because many of the normal running costs are already covered.
Do I have to pay anything?
Many vehicles are available with no Advance Payment. Some higher-value or more specialised vehicles require an Advance Payment — a one-off payment made at the start of the lease.
Can't afford the Advance Payment?
Many people don't realise that financial help may be available. If you can't afford the Advance Payment, you may be able to apply for financial assistance through the Motability Foundation (the independent charity behind the scheme).
Depending on your circumstances, the Foundation may:
- Pay all of the Advance Payment.
- Contribute towards the Advance Payment.
- Help fund adaptations to make a vehicle accessible.
- Provide other mobility-related financial assistance where appropriate.
Applications are assessed individually and support is not automatic. Eligibility depends on your financial circumstances and mobility needs.
Find out more at the Motability Foundation.
Vehicle adaptations
Many vehicles can be adapted to meet individual needs. Examples include:
- Hand controls.
- Left-foot accelerators.
- Steering aids.
- Wheelchair hoists.
- Transfer plates.
- Swivel seats.
Some adaptations are available at no extra cost, while others may require additional funding.
What happens when the lease ends?
At the end of your lease, you can usually:
- Lease another new vehicle.
- Return your current vehicle.
- Discuss your options with your Motability dealer.
If you have looked after your vehicle and met the terms of your lease, you may also qualify for the Good Condition Bonus, depending on the type of agreement.
Frequently asked questions
+Can someone else drive my Motability car?
Yes. You can name up to two other drivers on the insurance. The car must still be used mainly for the benefit of the disabled person named on the agreement.
+Can I choose any car?
You can choose from a wide range of vehicles available on the scheme. Some are available with no Advance Payment; others (larger, higher-spec or wheelchair accessible vehicles) require an Advance Payment.
+What happens if my benefit stops?
If your qualifying mobility benefit ends or is reduced during the lease, contact Motability straight away. They have a dedicated team and, depending on your circumstances, transitional support may be available.
+Can I lease an electric vehicle?
Yes. A growing number of electric and hybrid vehicles are on the scheme. Some include home charge-point installation as part of the package — ask the dealer to explain what's included.
+How long is the lease?
Standard car leases run for 3 years. Wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) leases usually run for 5 years. Powered wheelchair and scooter leases are typically 3 years.
+What if I need adaptations?
Many common adaptations — such as hand controls, left-foot accelerators or steering aids — are available at no extra cost. More complex adaptations may need extra funding, which the Motability Foundation may be able to help with.
Need help?
If you are unsure whether you qualify, or you'd like help understanding the scheme, visit the official Motability website or speak to your mobility adviser.
Sixpence Support UK can help you understand how the scheme works and signpost you to trusted organisations that can provide further assistance. We are independent and not affiliated with Motability or the Motability Foundation.
Related pages: Benefits & Pensions, Trusted Organisations, Letter Support.
Getting out and staying active
Once you're mobile, our guide to Sports, Leisure & Wellbeing Facilities covers accessible leisure centres, pools and hydrotherapy near you. You can also Find Local Services by postcode.