United Kingdom only. Scheme rules, prices and Advance Payments change regularly; last checked 2026-10-01. The Q4 2026 price list was scheduled for release on 1 October 2026 (UK working hours) - no specific new figures are quoted here; check the official Motability website or an accredited dealer for current prices.
How the scheme works for powered wheelchairs
The Motability Scheme follows the same basic steps for everyone joining. First, you receive a qualifying mobility benefit. Then you choose your vehicle - a car, wheelchair-accessible vehicle, scooter, or powered wheelchair - through an accredited dealer or the official Motability website. The Department for Work and Pensions (or Social Security Scotland) then pays your allowance directly to Motability every four weeks. More expensive models also require an upfront Advance Payment from your own pocket. Scooters and powered wheelchairs run on five-year leases, and the package bundles insurance, servicing, routine maintenance and repairs, breakdown cover, and tyres and vehicle tax into the lease cost. Most powered wheelchairs cost less than the full weekly allowance, so you keep the remainder paid to you by the DWP. At the end of the lease you return the wheelchair and can choose a new one if your benefit award still qualifies.
Who qualifies - and who does not
Eligibility is based on the type of disability benefit you receive, not your medical condition. You can join if you receive the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Adult Disability Payment (ADP), the War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement, or the Armed Forces Independence Payment - with at least 12 months remaining on your award. The standard or lower rates of PIP and DLA do not qualify, and Attendance Allowance cannot be used because it covers personal care rather than mobility. Older people can stay on the scheme indefinitely if they were awarded a qualifying benefit before reaching State Pension age. You do not need to be the driver yourself: up to three named drivers, such as carers or family members, can be added to the policy for cars.
What changed in 2026
The DWP is reforming the Motability Scheme in 2026, with key changes taking effect from 1 July 2026. Confirmed changes include a standard mileage allowance reduced to 10,000 miles per year, excess mileage charges rising to 25p per mile, wheelchair-accessible vehicle customers receiving 30,000 miles over a three-year lease or 50,000 over five years, new tyre-replacement limits for future leases, and new admin fees for taking Motability vehicles abroad. Motability says the changes are designed to manage rising operational costs and new VAT and Insurance Premium Tax charges while keeping the scheme sustainable, and some premium and higher-cost vehicles are reportedly being removed from the range. Existing leases are not affected until they are renewed or a new lease is ordered. Note that mileage limits matter mainly for car leases rather than powered wheelchairs, and wider PIP reforms could also affect eligibility for some claimants. For context, the enhanced PIP mobility rate is GBP 80 per week in the 2026/27 financial year, according to automotive guidance covering the scheme.
Your next steps
Start with the eligibility checker on the official Motability website to confirm your benefit and award length qualify. Then browse scooters and powered wheelchairs through an accredited Motability dealer - a dealer specialist can assess your needs and recommend a model for comfort and independence. Bring your benefit entitlement letter, proof of address, and driving licences for any named drivers; the dealer submits the application and approval typically takes a few working days. Because prices and availability change quarterly, check the current price list before ordering: the Q4 2026 list was due out on 1 October 2026 and may not be reflected in third-party guides yet.
