Motability Scheme eligibility: who qualifies

Who qualifies for the Motability scheme?

By Tia Harrison-North

Motability eligibility is straightforward to understand and follows set criteria.

The Motability scheme allows those who receive a qualifying mobility allowance to put some of it towards the cost of leasing a car, scooter or powered wheelchair.

Find out the eligibility criteria for the Motability scheme in our guide below and get the details on how it works.

In summary:

• You might be able to claim Motability if you receive a qualifying mobility allowance such as Personal Independence Allowance
• You no longer need 12 months left on your allowance to apply for your next vehicle
• You can apply for Motability on behalf of the claimant – the person receiving the benefit doesn’t have to be the person to drive the car

Who is eligible for the Motability scheme?

The Motability scheme aims to help people with disabilities achieve more independence. Leasing a car that suits the needs of a person with limited mobility or other disabilities can make a positive impact on day-to-day life.

You might be eligible for the Motability scheme if you have at least 12 months left of the following allowances:

• Enhanced rate mobility part of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• Higher rate mobility part of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
• Enhanced rate mobility part of Adult Disability Payment (Scotland)
• Higher rate mobility component of Child Disability Payment (Scotland)
• War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS)
• Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)

What if I have less than 12 months left?

You can only apply for the Motability scheme if you have 12 months left on your qualifying mobility allowance and a full UK driver’s licence (or the intended driver of the car).

However, if you’re already on the scheme, you no longer need 12 months left on your qualifying mobility benefit to apply for your next vehicle. If you do get a new vehicle and your allowance is not renewed or extended, you’ll need to reach out to the Motability scheme and you may have to give your lease car back.

Who isn’t eligible for Motability?

You may not be eligible for Motability if:

• You receive the lower rate of PIP, DLA, Adult Disability Payment, or Child Disability Allowance
• You are receiving Carer’s Allowance, Attendance Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• You have less than 12 months left on your qualifying benefit

Am I eligible for Motability because I claim PIP?

You are eligible for Motability if you claim the enhanced rate of the mobility component of PIP. The standard and lower rates of PIP don’t make you eligible for Motability.

If you receive PIP for daily living tasks but not for mobility, you also don’t fit the criteria for Motability.

Who can drive a Motability car?

The person receiving the qualifying mobility benefit has to apply for Motability (or somebody like a parent or carer can apply on their behalf), but they can nominate somebody to be the driver of the car they receive.

A parent of a child in receiving the enhanced rate of PIP can apply for Motability on their behalf and be the driver of the car, for example.

Get Motability cars at Marshall

Applying for Motability for the first time can seem daunting, but there are plenty of resources to guide you. The Motability scheme website is a great place to start, and our experts are happy to help you with the process.

Take a look at our full range of Motability cars and start your application now.