Rules and regulations for mobility scooters that are "not in a class"

The rules and regulations that govern mobility scooters can be confusing. Before using a mobility scooter or powered wheelchair it's important to know what class it is because it affects whether you can drive it on the road or on pavements, and whether you need to insure or register it.

A mobility scooter is considered not in a class if it can travel faster than 8mph, is wider than 85cm, or weighs more than 150kg (200kg if you need equipment attached to it).

This type of mobility scooter must be used on the road only, you’ll need to register it with DVLA and hold a valid driving licence. If its unladen weight exceeds 254kg (excluding any attached equipment), insurance is compulsory.

Is insurance mandatory for mobility scooters that are not in a class?

Insurance is not a legal requirement unless your vehicle is not in a class because its total weight is more than 254kg. The total weight does not include any equipment attached.

If the mobility scooter is not in a class and you cause a crash, you may be given the same penalty as if you were driving a car. That can include prison, a driving ban, or an unlimited fine.

Insurance for class 2 and class 3 mobility scooters is not a legal requirement, although it is recommended. If you cause damage or injure someone while using a class 2 or class 3 mobility scooter you may have to pay compensation. Third party liability of this kind can be covered by mobility scooter insurance.

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Do I need a driving licence to use a mobility scooter?

You do not need a driving licence to use a class 2 or class 3 mobility scooter. However, you will need a driving licence to use a mobility scooter that is not in a class.

Do mobility scooters that are not in a class pay vehicle tax?

You do not need to pay vehicle tax (sometimes referred to as road tax or VED) if your vehicle is registered with DVLA as a mobility scooter or powered wheelchair.

Driving on the road, pavements, footpaths and bridleways

Whether you are using a mobility scooter that is class 2, class 3, or not in a class, you must follow the Highway Code when using it on the road. For example, you cannot drive in bus lanes, cycle lanes or on motorways.

Only class 2 and class 3 mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs can be used on pavements and other pedestrian areas, including footpaths and bridleways. If your vehicle is not in a class, you cannot use it in pedestrian areas.

Remember the maximum speed in pedestrian areas is 4mph (if in doubt, keep to a brisk walking pace).

Is there an eyesight test for using a mobility scooter?

The eyesight rules depend on what type of mobility scooter you are using. Remember you can be prosecuted if you cause a crash because of poor eyesight.

If your vehicle is class 2 or class 3 you should be able to read a car numberplate from 12.3 metres (40 feet).

If your vehicle is not in a class, you must be able to read a car numberplate from 20 metres (65.5 feet). You must check regularly that you can still do this.

Do I have to register a mobility scooter?

If you buy a new mobility scooter, either the dealer will register it for you or you can do it yourself using form V55/MV. You will be sent a log book (V5C) in the post within 4 weeks of the sale.

If you are buying a used mobility scooter and are not sure if it is registered or not, you can use the DVLA vehicle enquiry service. If it is not registered, you can register it yourself using form V55/MV. You should receive a vehicle log book (V5C) in the post within 6 weeks of the sale.

ETA mobility scooter insurance

Class 2 and class 3 mobiltiy scooters are not required to have insurance, although it is recommended. ETA Mobility Scooter Insurance offers excellent value for money.

There’s no jargon, no fuss. Just simple, effective protection for only £65 a year (based on a scooter worth £3,500 or less).

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ETA offers a fully-comprehensive policy with no hidden costs; every policy includes:

       
• Theft and Damage*
       
• Personal Accident up to £20,000
       
• Third party liability up to £2m
       
• Breakdown cover including home rescue
       
• Replacement scooter hire up to £250
       
• Hospital Benefit up to £250 (no daily limit)
       
• New-for-old - however old your scooter
       
• Personal effects up to £250
       
• Puncture cover up to £100

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* You can insure your scooter for £3,500, £5,000. £7,500 or even £10,000.

‍Mobility scooter insurance from the ETA is great value at £65 per year for a scooter or powered wheelchair worth up to £3,500. And you can buy the same policy to cover two people at the same address for a total price of only £90 per year.

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Find out more about ETA mobility scooter insurance here or if you prefer to talk to one of our friendly advisers, call 0333 000 1234.

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