Motability Allowance for Learner Drivers: Your FAQs Answered

Learning to drive can be a stressful experience. However, for those with a disability, there may be a long list of questions that need answers.

Here, we look into some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Motability allowance for learner drivers. Check out our new to Motability answers for any further questions you may have.

Can you get a Motability car with a provisional licence?

You are allowed to have a Motability car if you only have a provisional licence. However, to do so, you must be shown as a named driver on the Certificate of Motor Insurance.

As is the case if you're a learner driver in any vehicle, you must be accompanied by a named driver over the age over 21 who has had a full licence for a minimum of three years.

Other named drivers will also be able to use your Motability vehicle, but drivers who are under 25 years old are restricted to cars with an ABI Insurance Group 16 or lower which have a power output of 120BHP or less. Therefore, be sure to consider if you'll require a driver under this age to be on your insurance before choosing your vehicle. This age restriction doesn't apply to Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles.

Can I learn to drive in my Motability car?

You are able to learn in your Motability vehicle as long as you are accompanied by a legal driver over the age of 25. It's possible for learner drivers to take lessons from the age of 16.

However, if you want anyone else on a provisional licence to be in control of your vehicle they must be 21 years old or above, and you won't be able to be on your Certificate of Motor Insurance.

How can I get help with the cost of driving lessons?

If you are looking to take lessons and have a disability, you may be entitled to financial support. You may qualify for help if you are in full-time education or training and are under the age of 25.

Those entitled can claim up to 40 hours of driving lessons if they receive certain means tested benefits, such as Universal Credit or Income Support. Lessons are provided by BSM and you must pass your theory test within the first 14 hours of lessons. 

What age can you learn to drive?

If you are entitled to Motability allowance, you can commence you lessons at 16 years old. When learning to drive, you must be accompanied by a fully licensed adult over the age of 21. 

What age can I first receive the Motability Allowance?

Motability allowance can be awarded to a person with a disability from their third birthday. At this point, an application can be made to the Motability Scheme by their parent or guardian. This can be filed prior to the recipient’s third birthday so long as all criteria is met, and the application is submitted in the name of the appointee.