Motability Usage Rules

When considering applying for a Motability vehicle, it is important to know all of the rules surrounding usage of the vehicle. This section has been designed to assist you in this area.

How many miles am I allowed to drive?

• You can drive up to 60,000 miles over a three-year lease agreement for a standard Motability car.
• For five-year agreements, usually for Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) or extended leases, the allowance is 100,000 miles.

***If you exceed these limits, you will pay 5p per mile for the additional distance.

If you have driven fewer than 15,000 miles by the end of a three-year lease, you may qualify to extend the lease by one or two years. In this case, you get an extra mileage allowance of 20,000 miles per year.

The lease agreement includes insurance, breakdown cover, and tax. Up to three people can be insured on the car, but only individuals listed on the Certificate of Motor Insurance may drive the vehicle. Drivers must hold a valid driving license. Note that you cannot build a no-claims bonus while using a Motability car.

If any changes occur that might affect your lease, you must notify Motability.

Who can drive a Motability car?

A Motability car can be driven by individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria set by the scheme and Direct Line Motability (DLM), the insurance provider. The car must primarily benefit the disabled person associated with the lease. Drivers must meet strict criteria and use the vehicle primarily for the disabled person’s benefit. The scheme provides flexibility in allowing up to three named drivers, temporary driver options, and specific provisions for younger drivers, ensuring the vehicle supports the claimant effectively. It is also important to note that two people in the same household can join the Motability Scheme if both meet the eligibility criteria. Each person can have one Scheme vehicle.

Eligibility Criteria for Drivers

• Drivers must hold a valid UK, EU, or non-UK license (non-UK licenses require additional checks).
• Drivers must not have any driving convictions, endorsements, or disqualifications within the last five years.
• Drivers under 25 are restricted to vehicles with an ABI Insurance Group of 16 or lower and a power output of 120 brake horsepower (BHP) or less for petrol, diesel, and hybrid cars. For electric cars, the limits are 140 BHP and ABI Insurance Group 21 or lower.
• One driver under 21 is permitted on the policy. This could include the disabled person or another household member.

Named Drivers

• The policy allows up to three named drivers, including family members, friends, or carers.
• Drivers must live within five miles of the disabled person's address unless special circumstances apply.
• Named drivers must use the car primarily for the benefit of the disabled person, though personal use is allowed if it aligns with this purpose.
• Drivers with their own fully comprehensive insurance for another car cannot drive the Motability car unless explicitly added to the policy.

Can I use a Motability car for delivery?

In short - NO, you cannot use a Motability car for delivery work. The Motability Scheme provides vehicles to support the mobility needs of disabled individuals, and their usage is limited by specific rules and restrictions.

Using a Motability car for delivery is not permitted under the scheme’s rules unless explicitly authorized. Delivery work, taxi services, and similar high-wear activities are classified as misuse, risking penalties and termination of your lease. For approved low-impact business use, you must apply for and obtain specific authorization through DLM. Always ensure the vehicle is used in compliance with the scheme’s primary goal of benefiting the disabled individual.