Can I get free and second hand mobility scooters in the UK?

Everything you need to know about second-hand and free mobility scooters, and what to consider when buying one if you struggle to get out because walking is difficult.

What is a mobility scooter?    

A mobility scooter is a single-seat vehicle powered by a battery. It can transport you indoors or outdoors when you have trouble walking. It has handlebars, or a tiller, making it look similar to a motorbike or bicycle. Also called disability scooters or disabled scooters, these mobility aids are often battery-powered and include a seat, a foot platform, and storage space.

Key features of mobility scooters include:  

• Handlebars or Tiller: Steers and controls speed and direction.
• Rechargeable battery: Powers the motor.
• Mile range: 10- 30 miles on a single charge.
• Wheels: 3 wheels suitable for pavements or 4 wheels, which are more stable for roads, rough terrain, and steep hills.
• Armrests can be detachable, fixed position or fold up/swing away.
• The backrest can be adjustable in angle, folding, or non-folding.
• The structure can be dismantled, foldable, or rigid.

Who can use mobility scooters?

You can only use a mobility scooter if:

• You have trouble walking because of an injury, physical disability or medical condition.
• You’re taking the vehicle to or from maintenance or repair.
• You’re the manufacturer testing the vehicle.
• You’re demonstrating the vehicle before it’s sold.
• You’re training a disabled user.

Bear in mind, if the above does not apply to you and you have an accident, you will receive the same penalty as if driving a car. This means you may get a driving ban, an unlimited fine, or go to prison.

How much is a mobility scooter?

A new mobility scooter costs between £3,000 and £15,000, according to the Mobility Trust. You may be able to buy one for as little as £500, especially if you buy second-hand (see further down).

How to get a mobility scooter for free in the UK

• It is uncommon to get a mobility scooter for free in the UK.
• Mobility scooters are not generally available on the NHS.
• You may be able to get funding from the Motability Scheme, your local council, and charities.
• A care needs assessment can help identify your care needs.
• This assessment can lead the local authority to provide the care and support you need, which may include mobility equipment. You can contact your local council to request a care needs assessment.

To qualify for a free mobility scooter in the UK, you must meet eligibility criteria for specific benefits and grants.

• Personal Independence Payment (PIP) higher mobility part is £80 a week.
• Disability Living Allowance (DLA) higher mobility part is £80 a week.
• Child Disability Payment (higher mobility part) is £80 a week.
• Adult Disability Payment (higher mobility part) is £80 a week.
• Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP): the higher rate mobility component is £80.00 per week. That’s the same as DLA and PIP.
• War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) – £89.25 a week.

The Motability Scheme can help you lease a scooter, as long as you receive a qualifying mobility allowance with at least 12 months left. You can also get maintenance, servicing, insurance and breakdown cover as part of the Motability scheme.

Where can I hire, borrow or find second-hand mobility scooters?

You can borrow mobility equipment for short periods from ShopMobility centres. Some charities or local organisations have refurbished second-hand mobility scooters available at a lower cost. Here is a useful guide to buying one. If you decide to buy second-hand, check for common faults such as a poorly performing battery, worn tyres, a faulty ignition switch, and steering problems.s.

• Hiring a mobility scooter for limited use, such as a holiday, is another option. Check with your local ShopMobility centre to see if it hires scooters.
• Mobility scooters may be available to use for short periods from the NHS or the Red Cross.

How much is a mobility scooter on PIP?

If you’re awarded the higher rate mobility part of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) (£80 per week) and you have at least 12 months left, you’re eligible to apply for the Motability Scheme.

You can exchange all or part of this PIP mobility allowance to lease a scooter through this scheme.  

How much you pay towards a scooter depends on your mobility allowance from the UK government and the type of scooter you choose. You can check your eligibility for the Motability scheme here.

You may qualify for a grant from a charity or a loan from your local council’s mobility service if you cannot walk and need support with daily activities.

How do I qualify for a free mobility scooter from the Mobility Trust?

The Mobility Trust pays for an occupational therapist assessment to ensure a scooter meets your clinical needs.  

How can I apply for a free mobility scooter?

You can apply for a free mobility scooter by completing the Mobility Trust’s assessment form. If you need help at home with daily tasks and have not done so, contact your local council to request a care needs assessment.

How can I buy one in the UK?

Several suppliers of mobility scooters operate across the UK. To search for a mobility scooter, check out the Living Made Easy charity’s website.

What to consider when buying a scooter

• Consider what you need the scooter for.

For example, would a sturdier scooter designed for road use that can travel further suit you better? Do you need it to be portable so you can transport it in a car when not riding it? If a portable scooter suits you better, check that a family member or carer can fit it into a car. Will you use the scooter indoors, outdoors, or both?

• What is the terrain like where you plan to use it? This will influence whether you use a three-wheel or four-wheel scooter.
• What budget do you have for a mobility scooter?
• Check the support available to help you pay for a scooter, highlighted in this article.
• Insurance cover – Check the terms, conditions, and cost suit you.
• Breakdown cover.
• Maintenance – you should regularly get your tyres, brakes and battery serviced.
• Mobility scooter cover – Look to get a waterproof cover for your scooter.

Types of mobility scooters

All mobility scooters have either three or four wheels.

Three-wheel scooters

• These are easier to manoeuvre.
• Tend to be lighter.
• Better at negotiating tight turns and going through narrow spaces than four-wheeled scooters.

Four-wheel scooters

• These are more stable than three-wheeled scooters.
• Four wheels can handle roads, steep hills and rough terrain.
• They are not as manoeuvrable and need more space when turning.

Portable scooters and foldable scooters

• These scooters can be transported in cars. They have a light frame.
• They usually come apart into smaller parts (portable) or fold down to fit into a car.
• They have a smaller battery capacity with a range of 10-15 miles. They cannot be driven on roads.

Pavement scooters

• Standard-sized scooters.
• Sturdier and able to carry more weight than portable or foldable scooters.
• Can travel up to 20 miles on a single charge.
• Maximum speed is 4mph.  

Road-legal mobility scooters

• If you travel long distances, these scooters are more comfortable on bumpy surfaces.
• Maximum speed: 8mph on the road and 4mph on the pavement.
• Can travel up to 25-30 miles on a single charge.
• Includes lights, indicators and a horn.
• Large scooters are classified as Class 3 products.
• Therefore, you or your scooter dealer will need to register it with the DVLA.

What class is your scooter?

Rules for mobility scooters vary by class:

Class 2 scooter

• Class 2 scooters usually have a maximum speed of 4 mph.
• Can be driven on pavements and cycle tracks.
• Do not usually have lights fitted.

Class 3 scooter

• Can be driven on roads as well as pavements and cycle tracks.
• Cannot be used on cycle lanes.
• Usually have a maximum speed of 8 mph.
• Usually have two speed settings for pavement or road use.
• Have lights and a flashing yellow beacon for use on dual carriageway roads.
• Needs to be registered with the DVLA.  

Not an in-class scooter

If your scooter is ‘not in class’, it:

• Can go faster. If your scooter is ‘not in class’, it weighs more than 150kg (or 200kg if you need equipment attached, e.g. medical equipment).
• Can only be driven on the road.
• Cannot be driven on pavements, pedestrian areas, cycle lanes or cycle tracks.

How can I tell what class my scooter is?

You can identify your scooter’s class by asking the manufacturer or checking its speed, weight, and width.

Are mobility scooters allowed on the road?

• Class 2 scooters, portable, and foldable scooters cannot be driven on roads or cycle lanes.
• Class 3 scooters can be driven on roads.
• Scooters not in a class can only be driven on roads.

Do you need a driving licence for a mobility scooter?  

If you have a mobility scooter which is not in class, you will need a driving licence to drive it.

How fast can mobility scooters go?

The speed of a mobility scooter varies according to the type of scooter you get.

See below to read about the different types of mobility scooters.

Mobility aids: Benefits of a mobility scooter

• Can improve your quality of life by enabling you to get to wherever you want to go to pursue hobbies and interests, and visit family and friends.
• It can empower you by giving you the independence to go where you wish, whenever.
• You don’t have to rely on your family or friends to help you get to your destination.