Motability explained simply
What the Motability Scheme is, who can use a qualifying mobility allowance and what a lease does and does not include.
Last reviewed: 6 July 2026 · UK guidance
In brief
Motability allows an eligible person to exchange a qualifying mobility allowance for a lease of a car, wheelchair-accessible vehicle, scooter or powered wheelchair under current rules. It is not a free vehicle: the allowance is paid to the scheme and some vehicles require an advance payment.
The lease normally includes specified insurance, servicing, breakdown and tyre support, but mileage, drivers, adaptations, fuel or charging and end-of-lease conditions still matter.
Check the qualifying award and length
Use the current Motability eligibility page and benefit award letter. The remaining award period can affect joining or ordering. Do not place an order based on a pending appeal or expected award.
Choose around real mobility needs
Measure passengers, wheelchairs, car seats, boot, transfer, driving position, range and home charging. Test entry and exit. A low advance payment is not useful if the vehicle cannot safely support the household.
Understand the lease budget
Compare the allowance surrendered, advance payment, adaptations, fuel or electricity, parking and non-covered costs. Ask what happens after an accident, licence change, award change or early termination.
Use adaptations and grants properly
Request an assessment and quotations before ordering. Some adaptations are included or grant-supported; others add cost. Confirm ownership and removal at lease end.
A Motability vehicle enquiry
Use with a dealer or scheme adviser.
I have a qualifying mobility award until [date] and need a vehicle for [passengers, equipment and journeys]. Please confirm eligibility, advance payment, adaptations, delivery, range or fuel costs, named-driver rules and what happens if the award or licence changes. I need a proper access test before ordering.
A practical checklist
- Confirm award type and remaining period.
- Test access with real equipment.
- Price advance payment and running costs.
- Agree adaptations before order.
Check the current information
These are the most relevant official or specialist places to confirm live rules, availability and application details.
motability.co.uk
Open official informationgov.uk
Open official informationgov.uk
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