The Motability Scheme has confirmed a full list of changes for disabled motorists across the UK, with Scotland's rollout date now set for September 1, 2026. The changes took effect in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland on July 1, 2026, and will apply to Scotland under the Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme (AVES).
Key Changes for New Leases
For new orders placed on or after the implementation date, the following changes apply:
- A 30,000-mile allowance for new three-year leases (10,000 miles per year).
- A 50,000-mile allowance for new five-year Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) leases.
- An excess mileage charge of 25p per mile, including VAT.
- Up to six tyre replacements during a three-year lease, including up to four for accidental damage.
- Up to 10 tyre replacements during a five-year WAV lease, including up to six for accidental damage.
- A £22 administration fee for a VE103 certificate needed when travelling outside the UK with a Motability vehicle.
Extra Support for Some Customers
Following discussions with the Scottish Government, Motability has introduced additional mileage support for eligible customers with higher essential travel needs. Customers may qualify if they expect to use more than 3,000 miles of their annual allowance for essential journeys, including medical appointments, specialist education, and employment. A postcode exception is also available for customers in eligible rural and island communities.
Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice and Housing Shirley-Anne Somerville said: "Motability will provide support to customers living in rural and island communities, as well as to customers who can demonstrate the need for increased mileage to allow for essential travel such as medical appointments, specialist education and employment. Importantly, this support will benefit disabled people right across the UK, not just in Scotland."
Financial Sustainability
The changes are being introduced following higher tax costs announced by the UK Government in the Autumn Budget. Andrew Miller, Chief Executive of Motability Operations, said: "The changes we are making in response to new UK Government tax costs will help keep the Motability Scheme sustainable, so we can continue to support disabled people's independence for the long term. Following our discussions with the Scottish Government, we'll be providing extra support for eligible customers in these areas."
No Impact on Existing Leases
There will be no changes to existing leases. Customers who agree or renew a lease before the relevant implementation date will remain on their current lease package. The rollout dates are: England, Wales, and Northern Ireland: July 1, 2026; Scotland (AVES): September 1, 2026.
