How to Access the Motability Scheme on Behalf of Someone Else
If you care for someone with a disability who receives the higher rate mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA), you may be wondering if you can access the Motability Scheme on their behalf for the provision of a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle, standard vehicle, Mobility scooter or wheelchair. The good news is—you can.
Whether the person is unable to drive or simply prefers someone else to do the driving, there are clear options available through the scheme. In this guide, we’ll explain how to access the Motability Scheme for someone else, including information on nominated drivers, appointees, and eligibility rules.
What Is the Motability Scheme?
The Motability Scheme allows eligible people to use their mobility benefit to lease a new car, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV), scooter, or powered wheelchair. This provides vital independence and mobility support for people with physical or developmental disabilities.
Can You Apply for the Motability Scheme for Someone Else?
Yes. If the person is in receipt of the higher mobility rate of PIP or DLA but cannot drive—or would prefer someone else to—others can apply or drive on their behalf.
There are two common routes:
- Adding a nominated driver
- Becoming an appointee
Option 1: Add a Nominated Driver to the Motability Scheme
The easiest way to support a non-driving recipient is to add a nominated driver to the Motability lease. Up to three drivers can be named on the insurance policy.
Rules for nominated drivers:
- Drivers under 25:
- Can only drive petrol, diesel, or hybrid cars in ABI Insurance Group 16 or lower, with 120 BHP or less
- For electric vehicles, it must be ABI Group 21 or lower, with 140 BHP or less
- Provisional licence holders:
- Only one is allowed on the policy
- They cannot be the sole driver
- Driver age:
- If the benefit recipient is the driver, there is no minimum age
- If someone else is driving, they must be at least 21 years old
- Different addresses:
- If no drivers live with the person receiving the benefit—or if they live in a care home where several people have access to the car—a GPS tracker may be installed to ensure the car is used for the benefit of the recipient
Option 2: Accessing the Scheme as an Appointee
In some cases, someone may need to fully manage the Motability agreement on behalf of the person receiving the benefit. This is usually done through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) by becoming an appointee.
What is an Appointee?
An appointee is a person or organisation legally authorised by the DWP to:
- Manage someone’s benefit payments
- Enter into contracts (like a Motability lease) on their behalf
This arrangement is commonly used when the recipient is a child, has learning difficulties, or is unable to manage their finances independently.
Important: Appointee vs Nominee
- A nominee can make minor administrative changes to the lease (e.g., updating contact details)
- A nominee cannot sign the Motability lease or be held legally responsible for it
- An appointee has full legal authority to act on the recipient’s behalf
Example Scenarios
- Parents of a child with disabilities: If your child receives the higher rate mobility component of DLA or PIP, you can apply for a Motability vehicle as long as it is used for the child’s benefit (e.g., school runs, medical visits, family outings).
- Caregivers or legal guardians: If you're responsible for someone who cannot manage their affairs, becoming an appointee allows you to manage their benefits and access the Motability Scheme legally and appropriately.
Useful Resources
Here are some official links to help you get started:
- Named Drivers on the Motability Scheme
- Adding a Nominee – Motability FAQ
- How to Become an Appointee – GOV.UK
Final Thoughts
The Motability Scheme is designed to provide freedom and mobility to people with disabilities—whether they’re driving themselves or relying on others to help. If you’re a parent, caregiver, family member, or legal representative, there are structured ways to support someone else through the scheme, ensuring they get the most out of their mobility entitlement.
For more support or to check eligibility, visit the Motability website or speak directly with their customer service team.
