Motability Scheme Eligibility Complete Guide

This page aims to clarify and offer readers all the necessary information about the eligibility for the Motability scheme agreement. Our in-depth guide will help you find out who is eligible, the steps to apply for the Motability Scheme and many other details so you can make the best-informed decision.

About the Motability Scheme

The Motability Car Scheme is a program designed to enhance mobility for people with disabilities by allowing them to exchange certain government-funded mobility allowances for a vehicle.

Through this scheme, eligible individuals including disabled people, can lease a car (click here to see our latest offers), scooter, or powered wheelchair, making it easier for them to travel independently or with assistance. It also includes insurance, servicing, maintenance, and breakdown cover, providing reliable support and ease for drivers

Who is Eligible for the Scheme and Who Qualifies for Mobility Allowance?

Eligibility for the Motability Scheme is limited to individuals receiving specific government-funded mobility benefits. To qualify, applicants must receive one of several specific allowances, such as:

- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) at the enhanced mobility rate
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) at a higher rate
- Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
- War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS)

all these with at least 12 months remaining on the allowance.

The scheme offers flexibility, as those who don’t drive can nominate up to two drivers to assist with transportation. Additionally, parents or guardians can apply on behalf of a child over three who meets the eligibility requirements, ensuring the program supports families as well. In short, you need to have daily living or mobility needs to access the program.

Qualifying Benefits and Allowances Explained

The Scheme allows eligible individuals to lease a vehicle by using specific mobility allowances. These allowances are designed to assist people with disabilities by covering the costs of transportation. Below are the main qualifying benefits and allowances required to join the scheme, along with essential details for each.

 Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) helps individuals with disabilities manage additional expenses related to their mobility needs. The higher rate of the mobility component is one of the qualifying allowances for the Motability Scheme, providing financial support to cover vehicle leasing. Currently, this allowance is set at a weekly rate of £75.50 (as of 8 April 2024), directly contributing to a Motability lease agreement. This makes it easier for those with mobility challenges to access a scheme car that can meet their transportation needs.

To qualify with DLA, applicants must have at least 12 months remaining on their allowance. This requirement helps ensure consistent financial support throughout the leasing period, minimizing interruptions and allowing for better planning and security.

Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

The Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) offers financial assistance to individuals with disabilities, helping them manage mobility-related expenses.

This rate qualifies recipients for the Motability Scheme, enabling them to lease a vehicle to improve their independence and access to transportation. The enhanced mobility component provides substantial support, making it easier for those with long-term health conditions or mobility challenges to access reliable transportation options.

To be eligible for the scheme, applicants must have at least 12 months remaining on their enhanced PIP award, ensuring stable support throughout the lease period. This benefit allows adults to maintain freedom and flexibility in their daily lives. 

Transition from DLA to PIP: Supporting Mobility for Children and Adults

It’s also important to note that DLA has been largely replaced by the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for adults, as part of the government’s welfare reform. Consequently, new DLA applications are accepted only for children under 16. Parents or guardians can apply for a Motability vehicle on behalf of a child receiving the higher rate of DLA mobility component, provided the child is three years or older. This adjustment allows the Motability Scheme to continue supporting families with younger dependents who have mobility needs, while adults now typically apply for PIP.

The transition from DLA to PIP for adults aims to streamline support for those with long-term mobility needs. However, the DLA’s higher rate remains a valid route for children under 16, making it a valuable support system for younger individuals and their families. The Motability Scheme thus continues to accommodate various ages and needs by adapting its eligibility to include both newer and legacy allowances, such as DLA.

The War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS)

The War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) supports veterans with mobility challenges, providing a weekly allowance to help cover transportation costs through the Motability Scheme. Administered by Veterans UK, WPMS ensures qualified veterans can access suitable vehicles to maintain their independence. To be eligible for the scheme, recipients must have at least 12 months remaining on their WPMS award. It’s important to note that Attendance Allowance cannot be used for the Motability Scheme, as it does not meet the eligibility criteria.

How to Check Your Eligibility 

To check your eligibility for the Motability Scheme, you can start by using an eligibility checker tool, on the official Motability website. This tool simplifies the process, guiding you through a few quick questions to help you determine if you meet the requirements.

Additionally, you should verify that your mobility allowance has at least 12 months remaining, as this is necessary for joining the scheme. To confirm your allowance length, check your award letter or contact your benefits provider, such as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) or Veterans UK, for the latest information. This ensures you meet the stability requirements needed for leasing a vehicle.

Special Eligibility Considerations

The Motability Scheme has specific eligibility considerations to accommodate different applicants' needs. For those over 65, the scheme is accessible if they are already receiving a qualifying benefit, such as PIP or DLA. Individuals applying for disability benefits for the first time at 65 or older are directed to apply for an Attendance Allowance, which does not qualify for Motability. However, note that there is no upper age limit for joining the Motability scheme.

Children aged three or older are also eligible if they receive a higher rate of DLA or an enhanced rate of PIP. In these cases, a parent or guardian can lease a vehicle on their behalf, supporting young dependents with mobility needs.

For non-drivers, the scheme allows flexibility by permitting up to two nominated drivers. This feature ensures that even if the beneficiary cannot drive, they can still benefit from the independence a Motability car provides, with trusted individuals driving on their behalf.

Steps to Apply for the Motability Scheme Car

Step 1: Check Eligibility

First, confirm that you meet the scheme’s requirements. Eligible applicants receive specific mobility-related benefits, such as the enhanced rate of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or the higher rate of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), with at least 12 months remaining on their award.

Step 2: Choose a Motability Vehicle

Consider your mobility needs and choose a suitable vehicle. The scheme offers options like cars, powered wheelchairs, and scooters, providing flexibility for various mobility requirements. If you’re in the market for a vehicle, at Wilsons we have a lot of deals and offers for cars, easy to adapt and meet your unique needs.

Step 3: Find a Dealer

Our Motability Dealership is located in the South-West of London, Epsom, in KT17 and our friendly Motability team can guide you through our available vehicles and adaptations if needed. Our staff is highly trained to assist you with the application process, so you can drive away in your adapted vehicle in no time.

Step 4: Order and Collect Your Vehicle

When you’ve selected a vehicle, finalize the order with your dealer. Be prepared with essential documents, such as your award letter, a valid ID, and proof of address. During the lease signing, you’ll need to enter a Personal Identification Number (PIN) to confirm and complete the process. Afterwards, the dealer will arrange for vehicle collection or delivery, giving you full access to the scheme’s benefits.

Work with Wilsons and get your ideal car on Motability

At Wilsons Automobiles, we offer special Motability deals, including discounted rates on electric and hybrid vehicles, perfect for those looking for eco-friendly options, at an affordable price. Explore our current promotions, which often include reduced advance payments on popular models. Call our Motability specialists, who are here to offer the best advice and help you find a vehicle that fits both your budget and lifestyle needs, providing personalized assistance every step of the way.

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Check other related questions:

What does Motability mean?
What is the Motability Scheme?
How does Motability work?
What does my car or WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) Scheme package include?
What is Personal Independence Payment (PIP)?
How does Motability work with PIP?