The Motability Scheme is a UK government-supported initiative that allows eligible individuals receiving mobility-related benefits to lease a car, wheelchair-accessible vehicle, scooter, or powered wheelchair. This is done by exchanging some or all of the mobility component of your PIP (Personal Independence Payment) benefit.
Participants can lease a new vehicle for three years (five for Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles), which covers insurance, servicing, breakdown cover, and even tyre replacements. It's designed to offer accessible, worry-free motoring for people with mobility challenges.
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Can I Get A Mobility Car On Standard Rate PIP?
To be eligible for a Motability car through PIP, you must be receiving:
- Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of PIP
- Or Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) (if still on legacy benefits)
You do not qualify if you are only receiving the standard rate mobility component or daily living component. The award must also be valid for at least 12 months remaining at the time of application. Eligibility is reassessed regularly and must be maintained to continue using the car.
What Are the PIP Mobility Car Rules in 2025?
If you lease a car through the Motability Scheme, you must adhere to specific rules:
- The car must primarily benefit the disabled person. Even if someone else drives it, its main use must be for the PIP recipient.
- The vehicle must not be used for business purposes (like Uber or delivery driving).
- You’re not allowed to sublet, rent, or lend the vehicle for unapproved use.
- Regular mileage must remain within agreed limits, this is usually 60,000 miles over 3 years.
Understanding these Motability rules under PIP is crucial to avoid penalties or disqualification. More on the possible consequences are discussed later in this article.
Can Someone Else Drive My Mobility Car?
Yes, but there are limits. A Motability car can have up to three named drivers, and they don’t have to be the PIP recipient. This is useful for parents of children with disabilities or caregivers of those unable to drive.
However, all drivers must be approved by Motability. The car cannot be used by an unapproved driver, even in an emergency. You also can’t let someone use the car if it doesn’t benefit the disabled person, for example, for commuting to a job unrelated to the PIP recipient’s needs.
This is one of the most commonly misunderstood parts of the scheme, and misuse could lead to termination of the lease.
How Many Drivers Can Be Added to a Motability Car?
As of 2025, up to three named drivers can be listed on your Motability lease. This could include:
- The PIP recipient (if they drive)
- A parent or guardian
- A caregiver or family member
Drivers must meet eligibility criteria such as holding a valid UK driving licence, having a clean driving record, and agreeing not to use the car for commercial gain.
You can change or remove drivers during your lease, but you’ll need to inform Motability and update your insurance details accordingly.
What Happens If You Break the Rules?
Breaching the Motability Scheme usage rules can result in serious consequences:
- Immediate termination of your car lease
- Being barred from the scheme in the future
- Potential legal or financial repercussions if the misuse is serious
Common violations include letting unapproved drivers use the car, using it for a job (like delivery driving), or using it when the PIP award has ended.
If you’re ever unsure about your use case, it’s best to contact Motability directly for guidance.
