Do I need a driver’s licence to ride a mobility scooter?
Motorised wheelchairs, mobility scooters, gophers – however you refer to them, these vehicles allow those with decreased mobility the opportunity to move around freely and independently.
However, there is more to riding one than sitting in the driver’s seat and moving. Drivers of motorised mobility devices, commonly referred to as mobility scooters need to be aware of speed limits, safety practices, and other laws. And then there’s picking the right model for their needs.
We’ve put together some advice if you use a mobility scooter, or you’re in the market to buy one.
Do I need a driver’s licence to ride a mobility scooter?
No, you don’t need a driver’s licence to use a mobility scooter. However, if you have a condition that prevents you from driving a car, it may affect your ability to safely use one, according to RAA Senior Manager for Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain.
There are a number of essential skills required for the safe use of a mobility scooter, including good hearing, coordination and reaction time.
“If you’re looking to buy a mobility scooter and have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking prescribed medication, it’s important to consult your doctor first as some conditions and medicines may affect your ability to safely operate a mobility scooter,” Mr Mountain says.
Can mobility scooters be ridden on the road?
Mobility scooters are defined as pedestrians – not vehicles. That means users mustn’t exceed 10km/h and they aren’t required to pay third party insurance. That’s why users must stick only to the footpath – not the road.
If users have to ride around a footpath obstructed by a tree branch or wheelie bin, they must keep to the left of the road and return to the footpath as soon as possible. If there are no footpaths, they should travel on the right-hand side of the road, facing oncoming traffic just as pedestrians are required to do.
Remember, whether you’re riding on the side of the road or on the footpath, it’s important to wear bright coloured clothing so other road users can see you.
Can passengers ride with me?
Unlike motorcycles, passengers can’t accompany you on a mobility scooter, as they’re only designed to carry one person and the maximum unladen weight of the scooter must not exceed 170kg.
Can I park my mobility scooter in a car park?
Mobility scooters should not be left in a car parking space. It’s not safe, nor courteous, to other vehicles that can only park in designated parking bays.
“Don’t forget to ensure the brake is applied and the key and any valuables are removed,” Mr Mountain says.
If you need to leave your mobility scooter, park it in an area on the footpath where it will not obstruct other pedestrians or access to adjacent premises.
What should I do before using a mobility scooter?
To ensure a safe and comfortable ride, there are a few steps to take before heading out.
- Are the batteries fully charged?
- Are the tyres inflated at the correct pressure (30psi on the rear tyres and 26psi on the front)?
- Is the seat adjusted to the right height so you can comfortably reach the steering wheel?
- Are you wearing bright-coloured clothing, so others can easily see you?
- Do you feel well enough to head out?
- Be careful going out in wet weather as rain can make footpaths slippery.
What else do I need to consider?
Think about where and how you’ll use your scooter before you commit to buying one.
For example, if you intend to use public transport, then your scooter must:
- be able to do a U-turn in an area no larger than 1.5m x 2.07m
- be no longer than 2.5m, including any accessories
- no taller than 1.5m and no wider than 740mm
Will it be your primary mode of transport? Do you need to travel in hilly areas? If so, you may need a more powerful unit for example.
Or do you want something compact that’ll fit in the boot of your car and you can take out easily? There are many mobility scooters available at RAA shops where you can also take one for a test drive.