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UK Launches Review to Update Laws on Mobility Scooters and Electric Wheelchairs

Officials seek public input to bring 1980s-era rules into line with today’s mobility technology.

Overview

  • The Department for Transport opened a 12‑week public consultation on 6 January, closing on 31 March, with a government response expected in the spring.
  • The review examines size, speed and usage rules, including where devices may operate on roads, pavements and other public spaces.
  • Ministers will consider whether larger, heavier or two‑person tandem models should be permitted in public areas.
  • The scope includes powered transporters such as e‑scooters, Segways and hoverboards, including potential pavement use when operated by disabled people.
  • Current law still labels devices as “invalid carriages” and splits them into Class 2 pavement use at 4 mph and Class 3 road use at 8 mph with DVLA registration, even as some modern devices exceed these limits and weights.