How to Qualify for a Mobility Scooter in Ireland (2025 Guide)

Mobility scooters are more than just aids, they’re lifelines for people with limited mobility, offering freedom, independence, and the ability to engage with the world on your own terms.

If you’re wondering how to qualify for a mobility scooter in Ireland, this 2025 guide breaks it all down. We’ve conducted a primary research on the topic and shared all you need to know, including HSE supports, mobility allowance, grants, and practical steps from experts at Medpoint, Ireland’s trusted mobility store.

HSE-Provided Mobility Aids: Free Scooters (If You Qualify)

If you hold a medical card, you may be eligible for a free mobility scooter or electric wheelchair through the HSE (Health Service Executive). This involves a referral to a public occupational therapist (OT) who will assess:

• Your walking ability
• Your home layout
• Your daily routines and independence
• Whether a scooter is safe and practical for your environment

If approved, the HSE may supply the scooter at no cost. This support is part of the HSE’s commitment to ensuring people with disabilities maintain their independence wherever possible.

Key Requirement: Medical card holders must be referred through their local primary care team or GP for an OT assessment.

If you consider a wheelchair instead, learn how to apply for a wheelchair through HSE in Ireland.

Mobility Allowance (Aged 16–66)

The Mobility Allowance is a monthly payment for people who:

• Are aged 16 to 66
• Have a mobility disability that makes it unsafe to use public transport
• Need help getting to work, training, or social activities

This allowance currently offers €208.50 per month and is intended to support transport costs. While it won’t cover the full cost of a scooter, it can help cover taxi fares, rental fees, or maintenance for your existing mobility aid.

⚠️ Note: The Mobility Allowance scheme was under review but continues under discretionary payments in many areas. Check with your local HSE office for up-to-date eligibility.
Source: gov.ie

Motorised Transport Grant (If You Drive)

If you’re working or training and need to drive with your mobility aid (e.g. scooter or wheelchair), the Motorised Transport Grant may help. It offers up to €5,020 towards a car that can accommodate a mobility scooter or wheelchair.

This grant is useful for:

• People transitioning back to work
• Individuals who need to transport a folding scooter or electric aid
• Drivers with long-term mobility impairments

✅ You can apply once every 3 years.
🔑 You’ll need a Primary Medical Certificate and a recommendation from your OT.

Find out who qualifies for a wheelchair in Ireland.

Mobility Aids Grant for Home Adaptations

While this grant isn’t scooter-specific, the Mobility Aids Housing Grant Scheme can support associated costs, including:

• Outdoor ramps
• Internal grab rails and access supports
• Storage or charging areas for scooters

This scheme is means-tested and offers up to €8,000 for households with income under €37,500/year.

✅ Great option if you’re also applying for a scooter and need to make space at home.

Tax Relief: VRT & VAT Exemptions

If you’re adapting a car or van to transport your scooter, the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme provides:

• Exemption from Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT)
• Refunds on VAT for vehicle adaptations
• Road tax relief

These can total up to €16,000–€22,000 depending on the vehicle and disability category. A Primary Medical Certificate is required.

This is ideal for those pairing a mobility scooter with a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV).

Learn more at Citizens Information.

Charities That May Fund a Mobility Scooter

In Ireland, there’s no national scheme exactly like the UK’s Motability scooter leasing, but charitable organisations sometimes step in:

• Hospital Saturday Fund
• Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA)
• Local Lions Clubs or St. Vincent de Paul

These may offer one-off grants for mobility aids including scooters, rollators, or self-propelled wheelchairs.

What Conditions Qualify You for a Mobility Scooter?

You don’t need a specific diagnosis to qualify. What matters is function, not labels.

You may be eligible if you experience:

• Chronic pain when walking
• Severe arthritis or joint problems
• Neurological conditions like MS or Parkinson’s
• Balance issues or frequent falls
• Post-operative recovery (e.g. hip or knee surgery)
• COPD, heart disease or fatigue-based limitations

Occupational therapists will consider your full medical and functional history.

If mobility scooter isn’t an option, check how to get a free electric wheelchair in Ireland.

Steps to Get a Mobility Scooter in Ireland

Here’s a simple step-by-step:

1. Speak with your GP or physiotherapist about mobility changes.
2. Request a referral for an HSE Occupational Therapist assessment.
3. Get assessed – the OT will visit your home and review your walking ability, safety, and environment.
4. Receive a prescription for a scooter (if suitable).
5. Check grant or allowance eligibility for financial support.
6. Arrange aftercare: training, battery charging advice, maintenance.
   
   

Example: How Maria Qualified

Maria, age 59, has arthritis and could only walk short distances after knee surgery. She holds a medical card and was referred to an OT by her GP. After assessment, the OT prescribed a lightweight mobility scooter.

The HSE provided the scooter that:

• Fits in her car boot
• Has adjustable speed and a basket
• Is safe to use on footpaths

Now, Maria visits her grandchildren and shops locally with confidence.

Final Thoughts

Qualifying for a mobility scooter in Ireland isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about finding the right aid that empowers your everyday life. Whether through HSE supports, grants, or private purchase, there are different options available to obtain one and change your life for good.

Frequently Asked Questions