Are Mobility Scooters Allowed on the Road?

Upon purchasing a mobility scooter, it’s understandable that you’ll want to know where you’re permitted to ride it. After all, it’s vitally important that you’re able to keep yourself and others safe, all while avoiding fines. So, are mobility scooters allowed on the road in the UK? We’ve put together this handy guide to navigating the country with your mobility scooter, paying close attention to whether mobility scooters are allowed on the road.

Do You Need a Driving Licence for a Road Mobility Scooter?

If you’re wondering, “can you drive a mobility scooter on the road?”, you may also be wondering whether a driving licence is required to ride one. You’re not required to have a driving licence to ride a mobility scooter. This is because mobility scooters aren’t classified as motor vehicles by the government, as they’re not heavy enough or fast enough with the maximum weight being 150kg before deemed as such. You’ll be pleases to hear all of Pride Mobility’s large scooters fall under the thresholds making them Class 3 vehicles. Check out the specification on each of the product pages to see the total weight without batteries.

Road Rules for Mobility Scooters

So, you don’t need a driver’s licence to ride a mobility scooter; however, this isn’t to say that there aren’t rules to abide by. In fact, there are two classes in which the government divides mobility scooters:

Class 2 Mobility Scooters

The first of the two mobility scooter classes is Class 2. These mobility scooters have a maximum speed of 4mph, and these ones can’t actually be driven on roads. Since these mobility scooters are typically compact and lightweight, they’re designed to be used on footpaths and to cross between sides of the road.

Class 3 Mobility Scooters

The second class of mobility scooters is Class 3, and with a maximum speed of at least 8mph, these can, in fact, be driven on the road. While there’s no specific mobility scooter speed limit on roads, there is a speed limit for the path. Class 3 mobility scooters can be ridden on the path; however, the rider mustn’t exceed a 4mph speed limit.

While mobility scooters aren’t technically classified as motor vehicles, the same rules apply in the sense that they must be fit for the road. This means they require excellent braking systems, indicators, hazard warning lights, and reflectors. But you’re in luck, at Pride Mobility our parts department supply replacements to your local dealer on request.

Do You Need Road Tax for Road Legal Mobility Scooters?

The weight and emissions of a vehicle determine how much road tax is to be paid. Since mobility scooters are much lighter and, as electric vehicles, have much lower emissions than motorbikes, cars, and vans, road tax isn’t required for mobility scooters.

Can Mobility Scooters Go on Dual Carriageways?

You may be surprised to learn that Class 3 mobility scooters are allowed on dual carriageways when they’re equipped with an amber flashing light. Despite this, it isn’t advisable to travel on dual carriageways with a speed limit that exceeds 50mph. Similarly, it’s illegal to ride a mobility scooter on the motorway.

Shop Mobility Scooters at Pride Mobility

Whether you’re looking to cruise the pavements or the roads, Pride Mobility has got you covered with our range of mobility scooters. Be sure to discover our range and find the perfect mobility scooter to suit your needs.