Transport advice for disabled service users

Many people with a disability both learn to and continue to drive, as long as it is safe to do so. Living in London you may find public transport more convenient, however this isn’t always the case and it may be more suitable for you use your own car.

Learning to drive

Firstly you need to apply for a provisional licence. The minimum age requirement to drive a car is 17, unless you receive the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), then you can apply when you are 16 years old.

When you apply for your provisional driving licence, you must make sure that you advise the DVLA of any medical conditions that may affect your ability to drive.

As a learner driver with a disability you may want to choose an instructor who has specialist knowledge of your needs. BSM have trained instructors and adapted vehicles. Experienced instructors can teach you more than how to drive, including:

• how to get in and out of the car more easily
• how to get your wheelchair in and out of the car (if applicable)
• how to operate any adapted controls

If you are in receipt of mobility related benefits, you may be eligible for help towards the cost of driving lessons provided through BSM.

Buying or leasing a car

For many people, having a car is a vital part of being independent. Cars can be adapted for people with a range of disabilities.

The Queen Elizabeth Foundation offer driving and car adaptation assessments for those who are unsure about which vehicle type is right for them, or for those whose who want to determine if it is safe to return to the road. Please note there is a charge for this service.

If you cannot afford to buy a car, or would prefer to lease one, the Motability Scheme provides an affordable, worry-free way for you to lease a car, wheelchair accessible vehicle, scooter or powered wheelchair in exchange for your mobility allowance.

600,000 people have chosen to have their allowances paid to the Motability Scheme to meet the cost of leasing a car, powered wheelchair or scooter.

As well as your vehicle, you’ll get:

• insurance, including tyre and windscreen replacement cover
• breakdown cover
• vehicle tax