The process of learning to drive can take a long time and usually many lessons are required.
With households across Scotland struggling to pay their bills due to the worsening cost of living crisis, many are simply unable to afford to learn to drive.
However, some benefits claimants can get up to 40 hours of free lessons as part of the Motability Scheme.
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The Motability Scheme is a UK Government-backed scheme that allows people with a disability to exchange their qualifying Mobility Allowance and lease a brand new car or Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV).
As reported by the Daily Record, most learner drivers need between 40 and 50 hours of lessons before they are able to pass their test — meaning the scheme could allow you to learn for free.
Additionally, if you already have a driving licence but are transitioning to an adapted vehicle, the Motability Scheme can fund your familiarisation lessons.
Here is a rundown of what you need to know about the Motability Driving Lessons Grant Programme?
Who can apply for the Motability Driving Lessons Grant Programme?
At the moment, the Motability Driving Lessons Grant Programme offers priority to those who want to learn how to drive and are:
1. In receipt of one of these disability allowances:
- Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of PIP
- Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance
- Higher Rate Mobility Component of Child Disability Payment
- War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
2. Receive a Government assessed means-tested benefit, including:
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Employment and Support Allowance (income-related)
- Job Seekers Allowance (income-based)
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Benefit (Council Tax Support, Council Tax Reduction)
- Pension Guarantee Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
In addition, you must possess a current lease agreement on the Motability Scheme, or a pending application for a vehicle with a confirmed date within the next four months.
According to Motability Scheme guidelines: "All grant applications are means-tested to ensure Motability supports those most in need of a charitable grant and help as many beneficiaries as possible with the charitable funds available.
“This means we will look at your financial situation to determine if we are able to provide a grant towards your lessons.”
Applicants are also required to cover the full cost of their theory and practical driving examinations.
More information can be found on the Motability Scheme website here.
