Government’s consultation seeks views to modernise powered mobility device laws

The Government recently announced a consultation with members of the public to potentially modernise laws on powered mobility devices, (some which have not changed for over 40 years). 

The idea is to bring these laws up to date to reflect the huge advances in technology over the last four decades, so that the laws are more appropriate for the newer technologies and a better fit for those who use electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

The 12 week consultation started on the 6th of January and will last for a period of 12 weeks. 

The Government has opened up the consultation to include device users, organisations, industry players and the wider public for their views on how laws could be improved to better reflect today’s technologies, also to improve safety.  

The consultation, titled Reviewing the law for powered mobility devices, focuses on several critical areas where legislation has failed to keep pace with innovation. Primarily, the Department for Transport (DfT) is looking to overhaul the outdated terminology used in the Use of Invalid Carriages on Highways Regulations 1988. 

The government has acknowledged that terms such as ‘invalid carriage’ are not only archaic but offensive to many, and seeks to replace them with more inclusive language like 'mobility device.'

Beyond terminology, the review tackles practical barriers that users face daily. A significant portion of the consultation addresses the maximum weight limit for these devices. Currently, the law generally restricts 'Class 3' vehicles (those allowed on roads) to an unladen weight of 150kg. 

However, many modern powered wheelchairs - equipped with necessary life-support ventilators, custom seating, or robust batteries for longer range exceed this limit, technically forcing users to break the law just to remain mobile.

New permissions and technologies

Perhaps the most significant change proposed is the potential for mobility device users to access cycle lanes. Under current rules, mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs are restricted to pavements (at 4mph) or roads (at 8mph), but are banned from cycle tracks. 

The consultation asks whether users of Class 2 and Class 3 devices should be permitted to use cycle lanes, a move that could provide a safer, smoother alternative to potholed roads or crowded pavements.

The government is also seeking clarity on the 'grey areas' of mobility technology. This includes the use of 'power add-ons' - detachable electric units that clip onto manual wheelchairs to convert them into powered devices - and whether two-person 'tandem' mobility scooters should be legally permitted on public highways.

Breaking down barriers

Ministers have framed this consultation as a vital step toward equality. Simon Lightwood MP, Minister for Roads and Buses, emphasised that the law must enable safe use rather than restrict independence. Similarly, Sir Stephen Timms MP, Minister for Social Security and Disability, noted that updating these laws is essential to 'break down barriers to opportunity' for disabled people.

The consultation document also invites feedback on safety measures, including whether the current speed limits of 4mph (pavement) and 8mph (road) are still appropriate, and how to better enforce safe driving standards to protect both the device users and pedestrians.

How to get involved

The consultation closes on 31 March 2026. The government is encouraging responses not just from device users, but also from disability advocacy groups, the transport industry, and the general public.

You can view the full consultation document and submit your responses online at the Department for Transport’s website, or request alternative formats (such as Braille or Easy Read) by contacting the department directly.

The consultation, titled Reviewing the law for powered mobility devices, focuses on several critical areas where legislation has failed to keep pace with innovation. Primarily, the Department for Transport (DfT) is looking to overhaul the outdated terminology used in the Use of Invalid Carriages on Highways Regulations 1988. The government has acknowledged that terms such as 'invalid carriage' are not only archaic but offensive to many, and seeks to replace them with more inclusive language like 'mobility device.'

Beyond terminology, the review tackles practical barriers that users face daily. A significant portion of the consultation addresses the maximum weight limit for these devices. Currently, the law generally restricts 'Class 3' vehicles (those allowed on roads) to an unladen weight of 150kg. However, many modern powered wheelchairs—equipped with necessary life-support ventilators, custom seating, or robust batteries for longer range—exceed this limit, technically forcing users to break the law just to remain mobile.