What are the UK rules, regulations and laws for mobility scooters?

Who can use a mobility scooter?

You can only drive a mobility scooter if you have trouble walking because of an injury, physical disability or medical condition. An able-bodied person can use a mobility scooter in certain cases, such as if they are demonstrating a vehicle before it’s sold, are training a disabled user, or are taking the vehicle to or from maintenance or repair.

Can I drive a mobility scooter on the road?

Yes, but only if it’s a ‘class 3 invalid carriage.’ ‘Class 2 invalid carriages’ aren’t allowed to go on roads, except in cases where there is no pavement. The Gov UK website provides up to date content on the most recent regulation regarding driving your scooter on the road.

How old do I need to be?

To drive a class 3 invalid carriage you must be at least 14 years old.

What features should my class 3 mobility scooter have if I’m taking it on the road?

The Government state that in order to drive your Class 3 scooter on the road, you must have a maximum unladen weight of 150kg and a maximum width of 0.85 metres. You must also have an efficient braking system, front and rear lights and reflectors, indicators, an audible horn and a rear view mirror. If you’ll be taking your scooter on a dual carriageway you also need an amber flashing light. If it doesn’t have these features, you could be stopped by the police.

Do I need a licence or tax to go on the road with my mobility scooter?

No, but you must register. You can do this by completing the V55/4 form for new vehicles, of V55/5 for used vehicles. You can order these forms from the DVLA here.

What about insurance?

Insurance for mobility scooters is not a legal requirement as it is with cars, but it is recommended by the Police and other authorities. There are several providers offering cover for mobility scooters in the UK. Fish Insurance offer Mobility Scooter Insurance, with 3 levels of cover available, starting from £39.00 per year*, find out more here.

*£39.00 price applies to Mobility Scooter Lite Insurance, only available online.

What about eyesight requirements?

There’s no legal eyesight requirement to drive a mobility scooter but, like when driving any other kind of vehicle, you should be able to read a car’s registration plate from a distance of 12.3 metres (40 feet.)

Can I drive on footpaths too?

Yes, both class 2 and class 3 invalid carriages can legally be driven on footpaths or in pedestrian areas, so long as you stick to the speed limit of 4mph. You can’t drive any type of mobility scooter on cycle paths marked ‘cycle only.’

Can I park my mobility scooter anywhere I like?

No, all the normal parking restrictions apply to mobility scooters. You shouldn’t leave it on a footpath or pedestrian area on its own if it gets in the way of other pedestrians, which includes wheelchair users or people with prams or pushchairs.

What other rules are there?

If you’re driving your mobility scooter on the road you must learn and follow the Highway Code.