Using a Mobility Scooter on the Road
Many of our customers use mobility scooters of one kind or another to help them get out and about. Whether it’s to pop down to the local shops or to enjoy a trip with family and friends, mobility scooters are an essential independent living aid for people with a variety of conditions.
One question that comes up a lot among customers who are choosing a mobility scooter for the first time or replacing an older model is whether or not they can be used on the road. There isn’t a cut-and-dried answer to this question. In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the key considerations for anyone planning on driving a mobility scooter on a public road:
Do you need a driving licence for a mobility scooter?
No. There is no legal requirement for you to have a driving licence to ride a mobility scooter. However, if your scooter is a Class 3 vehicle, you will need to register it with the DVLA by filling in an ‘Application for a vehicle registration certificate’ (V62). You will receive a new vehicle log book within 4 weeks of registering.
Can mobility scooters go on the road?
It depends on the type of mobility scooter you’re riding. These vehicles come in two types: Class 2 and Class 3. Class 2 mobility scooters (which include certain types of powered wheelchairs) have a maximum speed of 4 mph and cannot be driven on a public road. The only exception to this is where there is no pavement to accommodate the vehicle. For instance, if the road has a grass verge but no pavement, you can use the road, but should keep as close to the kerb as possible.
Class 3 mobility scooters tend to be larger and more powerful, with a top speed of 8 mph.
Class 3 scooters can be driven on a public road or on a pavement. However, anyone driving their scooter on a pavement must limit their speed to 4 mph.
Are there any restrictions for using a mobility scooter on the road?
As already discussed, you can only drive a class 3 mobility scooter on the road, and the maximum road speed for such a scooter is 8 mph. You are expected to drive as close to the left-hand side of the road as safety permits in order for other vehicles to pass you on the right-hand side without incident.
Mobility scooters are not permitted to be driven on bus lanes, bicycle-only lanes, or motorways.
Can I drive my mobility scooter on a dual carriageway?
While you are allowed to drive a Class 3 mobility scooter on a dual carriageway, it is recommended that you avoid roads with a speed limit in excess of 50 mph. Furthermore, if using a Class 3 scooter on a dual carriageway, you should use an amber flashing light for optimal visibility.
Do you need tax and insurance for a mobility scooter?
You do not have to pay road or vehicle tax for a powered wheelchair or mobility scooter, so long as it is registered with the DVLA. Likewise, you do not need to have your mobility scooter insured for road use, although it is recommended that you do so for your own safety.
If you are in need of a Class 2 or Class 3 mobility scooter on the Wirral, get in touch with Easi-way Mobility today. Call us on 0151 346 1186 to arrange a free demonstration of our various models at our Bromborough showroom.