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Learning to drive with a disability

Judith King, a Mobility in Motion customer, sat in the driver's seat of her car using the Brig-Ayd Tetra Grip

Learning to drive can be a life-changing step towards greater independence, especially for people living with a disability. But the process can feel daunting without the right information and support. 

 

From understanding medical requirements to finding the right instructor, disabled driving lessons and vehicle, there’s a lot to consider. In this guide we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about learning to drive with a disability, clearing up common myths and helping you feel confident about the road ahead.

 

Can you learn to drive if you have a disability?

In most cases, yes. Having a disability doesn’t mean you can’t learn to drive. It just means there may be extra steps involved. Whether your condition is physical, cognitive or sensory, it’s still possible to gain your licence if you meet the medical standards set out by the DVLA.

 

The DVLA is responsible for assessing whether a person is fit to drive safely. This might involve providing medical information or attending a DVLA disability driving assessment. These assessments are designed to support not exclude, and many people find them helpful in understanding how to adapt a vehicle or approach driving in a way that suits them.

 

Despite this misconceptions remain. Some assume that driving with a disability isn’t possible, or that only specialist vehicles can be used. In reality there’s a wide range of vehicle adaptations for disabled drivers and learning to drive with a disability is more accessible than ever.

 

How to check medical eligibility and inform the

DVLA

 

Applying for a provisional licence with a medical condition

If you have a medical condition or disability that might affect your driving, you’ll need to tell the DVLA when applying for your provisional licence. The application form will ask for details and you may need to provide additional medical evidence.

 

Understanding the medical assessments required

The DVLA may refer you for a medical assessment or a disabled driving assessment to better understand your condition. These assessments don’t mean your application will be rejected. They’re designed to ensure you’re safe to drive and to explore any adaptations that might help.

 

Finding the right support and resources

You can find guidance through organisations like the Motability Foundation and Driving Mobility centres which provide support and advice throughout the application and assessment process.

 

What to expect from a disability driving assessment

A disability driving assessment is not a driving test. It’s an opportunity to assess your needs and determine what support or equipment would make driving safer and more comfortable for you.

 

What happens during a driving assessment

Assessments usually include a medical review, a conversation about your lifestyle and a short drive in an adapted vehicle. You might be introduced to various modifications, such as car hand controls for disabled drivers, car pedal adaptations or steering aids for easier vehicle control, depending on your needs.

 

The goal is to find what works best for you. The assessor will then make recommendations which you can use to guide your choice of vehicle adaptations and instructor. Read our full guide to find out what to expect during your disabled driving assessment. 

 

Finding a suitable driving instructor

Driving lessons are a key part of learning, but not all instructors have experience in teaching disabled learners. A specialist instructor understands how to tailor lessons and provide the right support.

 

Although it’s not a legal requirement, most people like to use an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) to support with their driving tuition. Specialist instructors like Disability Driving Instructors and AA’s Disabled Driving Courses, can offer lessons in adapted vehicles and provide expert advice for disability driving. For further details on finding the best accessible driving courses, take a look at our guide

 

Understanding vehicle adaptations

Robyn Love SureDrive Hand Controls

There’s no one size fits all approach. Adaptations should be based on comfort, safety and ease of use. For instance, car hand controls for disabled drivers provide an alternative to using foot pedals and are ideal for drivers with limited lower body mobility. These controls allow you to accelerate and brake using your hands, which can significantly improve both confidence and control.

 

Steering aids for easier vehicle control are available in various forms, from steering balls to tetra grips, giving drivers with limited dexterity better handling and safer manoeuvrability. If reaching or operating standard pedals is difficult, car pedal adaptations for disabled drivers can be customised to reposition or extend pedals, making driving more comfortable.

 

Transfer plates

Getting in and out of a vehicle can also be a barrier. That’s where swivel seats for easier access and car transfer aids for disabled passengers can make a big difference. These solutions reduce strain and help people transfer from a wheelchair or mobility aid into a vehicle seat more easily.

 

mobility in motion demo vehicle with boot hoist lifting a folded powerchair

If you use a wheelchair or mobility scooter, wheelchair and mobility scooter hoists can help you load and unload your equipment with minimal effort. These hoists are easy to operate and designed to work with a wide range of vehicle types.

To explore all your options see our guide to vehicle adaptations for disabled drivers. It’s always a good idea to try before you buy. Booking a demonstration or consultation gives you the opportunity to see how adaptations work in practice, test different features and get advice tailored to your driving style and mobility needs.

 

Friendly Mobility in Motion assessor stood smiling next to demo car with wheelchair roof top box and a swivel seat turned out of the front passenger side

 

At Mobility in Motion, we offer complimentary mobility assessments as standard, either online or at your home. Our mobility needs assessments allow us to talk to you about your mobility requirements and check your vehicle, so we can select and recommend the correct adaptations. Both our home visit and online mobility needs assessments also include full product demonstrations to ensure that you are familiar with how the adaptations work, and that you feel comfortable to operate them.

 

Adaptations can often be heavily funded through the Motability Scheme, which covers the cost of certain modifications when leasing a car through the programme. Additional support may be available from the Motability Foundation or through grants from local councils and charities, depending on your location and personal circumstances.

 

Support and funding for driving lessons

Learning to drive with a disability can come with extra costs, but support is available:

 

  • Motability Foundation offers grants to help with the cost of driving lessons. If you receive a qualifying Mobility Allowance, you may be eligible for a grant covering up to 40 hours of driving lessons through the Motability Scheme.
  • Local councils may provide financial assistance or travel vouchers
  • Disability-specific charities may offer support in your area

Try to plan ahead by budgeting for lessons, test fees and any required vehicle adaptations.

 

Getting ready for the theory and practical driving tests

 

Adjustments available for the theory test

If you have a disability or learning difficulty, you may be entitled to extra time, a reader or a voiceover during the theory test. But do let the DVSA know about your requirements when booking. You can also request to take the test in a separate room or with additional support to reduce anxiety and distractions.

 

Practical test accommodations

The practical test can also be adjusted. You might use your own adapted vehicle, take extra time to get in and out or have a sign language interpreter if needed. Again, it’s important to discuss your needs when booking so that appropriate arrangements can be made in advance. The examiner will already be aware of your adaptations and will assess your ability based on how effectively you use them.

 

Tips for a confident driving test experience

Practise regularly in the vehicle you’ll use for the test, especially if it includes adaptations. Familiarity with your setup can help reduce nerves and improve confidence. Work with your instructor to go over any situations you find challenging and use mock tests to build your experience. It’s important not to rush things. Take the test when you feel ready and focus on staying calm and alert throughout.

 

What happens if you fail and need to reapply

Failing isn’t the end of the road as you can rebook after 10 working days. Take time to review your feedback and work with your instructor to strengthen any weaker areas. Many people pass on their second or third attempt, so use the experience as a learning opportunity and keep building your confidence.

 

Driving with a learning disability or cognitive condition

Conditions such as autism, ADHD or dyslexia can affect how someone learns to drive but that doesn’t mean driving isn’t possible.

 

Support might include clear, consistent routines during lessons, extra time to process instructions, adapted learning materials and an instructor experienced in teaching learners with additional needs. With the right support many people with cognitive conditions go on to become confident safe drivers.

 

What to do after passing your test

This is the exciting part! Once you’ve passed, you’ll apply for a full driving licence and off you go. If you haven’t already bought and adapted a car already, now’s the time find a suitable adapted vehicle either privately funded or leased through the Motability Scheme. Most vehicles can be adapted so you’re not limited on choice! 

 

Of course, what you want and require in a vehicle based on mobility needs, personal preferences, number of passengers and lifestyle, will naturally determine which vehicles you’ll need to look at.

 

Once you’ve shortlisted a few vehicles that meet your overall requirements, we recommend contacting a vehicle adaptations specialist, such as Mobility in Motion, to gain compatibility advice on adapting it. Or explore some of the best cars on Motability for under 25’s.

 

Final thoughts

Gaining your driving licence is an exciting step towards achieving greater independence and freedom. Yes learning to drive with a disability can feel overwhelming, but it’s entirely achievable with the right guidance, equipment and support. Whether you’re just getting started or already exploring vehicle adaptations, Mobility in Motion is here to help every step of the way.

 

If you’d like tailored advice or want to learn more about how we can support you get in touch with our team.