PIP and DLA Claimants Can Now Get Free Driving Lessons: If you’re claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA), there’s great news: you may be eligible for up to 40 hours of free driving lessons thanks to the Motability Foundation’s Driving Lessons Grant Programme. This initiative supports disabled individuals who want to learn to drive, promoting greater independence and access to mobility.
Learning to drive can be life-changing, but it also comes with significant financial barriers. The average cost of driving lessons in the UK is between £30–£40 per hour, which means a complete set of 40 hours could cost up to £1,600—an amount that may be out of reach for many. That’s where this grant comes in, helping those who need it most.
PIP and DLA Claimants Can Now Get Free Driving Lessons
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Motability Foundation Driving Lessons Grant Programme |
| Eligibility | Claimants of PIP, DLA, and other qualifying benefits (see full list below) |
| Maximum Lessons Covered | 40 hours |
| Additional Costs Covered | No (you must pay for your own tests) |
| Driving School Partner | AA Driving School |
| Application Method | Form via phone or website |
| Official Website | Motability Foundation Driving Lessons |
If you receive PIP or DLA and meet the financial criteria, the Motability Driving Lessons Grant could be your ticket to independence. With up to 40 hours of professional lessons provided through the AA Driving School, this programme breaks down cost barriers and makes driving accessible to thousands.
Whether you’re dreaming of solo travel, job access, or greater self-sufficiency, now is the time to act. The application is free, the support is there, and your independence could be just a few lessons away.
What Is the Motability Driving Lessons Grant?
The Motability Foundation, known for supporting disabled drivers and mobility users, offers this charitable grant to help people learn to drive who otherwise might not afford it. The goal is simple: increase independence and reduce reliance on others for day-to-day transportation.
Driving lessons through the grant are provided via the AA Driving School, ensuring a nationwide network of qualified, vetted instructors.
Importantly, this grant covers lesson time only—you’ll still need to fund your own theory test and practical driving test costs.
Who Is Eligible for Free Driving Lessons?
Eligibility is based on two main criteria: disability benefit status and financial circumstances.
You must:
- Be a Motability Scheme customer, OR
- Have a Motability vehicle on order, or
- Be awaiting delivery within 4 months
- Have a provisional driving licence
- Have passed your theory test
- Be in receipt of a qualifying disability benefit, including:
- Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of PIP
- Higher Rate Mobility Component of DLA
- War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Also be receiving a means-tested benefit, such as:
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Employment and Support Allowance (income-based)
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (income-based)
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Support
- Working Tax Credit
- Pension Guarantee Credit
This ensures the programme targets individuals with both medical and financial needs, where the assistance will make the biggest difference.
How Many Lessons Are Covered?
The grant typically covers up to 40 hours of driving instruction. This aligns with the DVSA’s (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) recommendation that new drivers should take at least 45 hours of lessons to be test-ready.
If needed, additional hours may be self-funded.
For drivers already licensed but needing help adjusting to an adapted vehicle, the Motability Foundation also offers familiarisation lessons—usually up to 5 hours.
PIP and DLA Claimants Can Now Get Free Driving Lessons Apply Guide
- Contact the Motability Foundation:
- Call 0800 500 3186 to speak with an advisor
- Or visit the official website for information
- Request the Application Form: The advisor will send you an application pack by post or email. This includes,
- Application form
- Checklist of documents to submit
- Guidance notes on eligibility
- Fill Out the Form: Include accurate details about,
- Your disability benefits
- Your income or household benefits
- Your Motability Scheme status
- Your driving goals and whether you’ve passed your theory test
- Submit the Application: Send the completed application and any supporting documents by post or email. Processing can take up to 10 weeks depending on demand.
- Once your application is reviewed, you’ll be contacted by a Case Manager for any follow-up. If successful, the AA Driving School will be assigned to you for lesson scheduling.
Real-World Example
Lucy, age 24, has cerebral palsy and receives Enhanced Rate PIP and Universal Credit. She lives in a rural village and relies on her parents for transport. Through the Driving Lessons Grant, she received 40 free hours of instruction and passed her test within five months.
She said, “Being able to drive changed my life. I can now go to work independently and even help out with errands for my family. I couldn’t have done this without the Motability Foundation.”
Why This Programme Matters
Learning to drive is more than just a milestone—it opens doors to employment, education, social inclusion, and mental health improvements. For disabled individuals, driving means:
- Freedom from reliance on carers or family
- Access to services and job opportunities
- Increased confidence and independence
Yet cost is a major barrier, especially during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. This programme removes that hurdle for many.
According to the RAC Foundation, the number of disabled people with driving licences is rising—but access inequalities persist, especially for young adults and those from low-income households.
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Additional Information
- Driving instructors are trained to work with learners with disabilities and adapt their approach to meet different needs.
- Lessons are booked directly with the AA, who assign a local instructor based on availability.
- Theory and practical test fees, while not included, can be covered through other small grants or local council support schemes—check with your local authority or Jobcentre Plus.
FAQs On PIP and DLA Claimants Can Now Get Free Driving Lessons
Can I get the grant if I already have a full licence?
You may be eligible for familiarisation lessons if you’re adjusting to an adapted vehicle.
What if I haven’t passed my theory test yet?
You need to pass the theory test before lessons can begin, but you can start your grant application in the meantime.
Are automatic vehicles included?
Yes. The AA Driving School can accommodate automatic and adapted vehicle instruction as needed.
Can I choose my instructor?
The AA assigns instructors based on location and availability, but you can discuss preferences.
Can I apply if I’m not on the Motability Scheme?
Unfortunately, this grant is only available to Scheme customers or those with a confirmed vehicle order.
Can I get help with my test fees?
Not through this grant, but you may be eligible for support through your local council or Jobcentre.
Where to Get Help
If you need help with the application or want to explore other support services, try contacting:
- Motability Foundation Driving Lessons
- Scope
- Disability Rights UK
- Citizens Advice
- Your local Jobcentre Plus
