Driving with a disability

Having a disability does not necessarily mean you cannot drive: there are many modifications that can be made to help adapt a car for your needs.

You might find it useful to start with a driving assessment. This will

  • test your driving ability
  • give you advice on the controls and adaptations needed to allow you to drive safely and comfortably.

Find your nearest mobility centre using the Find a centre section of the Driving Mobility website.

Modifications to your vehicle

Modifications that can be made include

  • hand controls for braking and accelerating
  • clutch conversions
  • seat belt modifications or harnesses
  • special seating
  • wheelchair stowage equipment.
  • steering and secondary control aids
  • left-foot accelerator conversions
  • parking brake devices
  • extra car mirrors
  • harnesses.

Automatic gears and power-assisted steering may also help you if you’re a disabled driver.

Motability is a charity that offers advice on modifications and helps finance them if you receive certain disability allowances. If you are a car lease customer of theirs and on means-tested benefits, you might even be able to claim 40 hours of free driving lessons. Visit the Motability website for more information.

You might also qualify for parking concessions, which will allow you to park closer to your destination.

You can find out about the Blue Badge scheme for your local authority via GOV.UK. You can also apply for a Blue Badge and find out where Blue Badge holders can park.

You’ll need to tell DVLA if you have a disability or if your disability has worsened since you first had your licence.

If you have a query about whether your health condition will affect your ability to drive, you can contact DVLA Drivers Medical Enquiries.

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