Driving and travel

Driving

Learning to drive
If you get the higher rate mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance, you can start to drive at 16, otherwise you have to wait until you’re 17 like everyone else.

For a provisional licence, you fill in the standard form (from main post offices) and give the details about your disability. You will receive a form asking for more details of your disability, the details of any adaptations you require, and for your consent to contact your doctor or a specialist for a report to the DVLA. A medical adviser will consider this report and will make a recommendation on issuing you with a provisional licence. If you are refused a licence you will be given an explanation and you have the right to appeal.

If you’re learning to drive, it’s a good idea to find an instructor who has taught disabled people before. It’s not likely that you’ll find someone who knows a lot about ataxia, but an increasing number do offer specialist tuition – and this isn’t just about driving. They can teach you techniques to get in and out of the car, to get your wheelchair in and out if you use a wheelchair and to operate any adapted controls. Look in your local area for instructors who have undertaken a special course, often at Banstead Mobility Centre or the Transport Research Laboratory.

Parking concessions
The Blue Badge Scheme is a national arrangement of parking (and some other) concessions for people with severe walking difficulties (both drivers and passengers); anyone who is registered blind; and drivers with very severe upper limb disabilities who cannot turn a steering wheel by hand.

Road Tax
You don’t need to pay Road Tax on a car that’s been modified for the use of someone with a disability – whoever drives the car. Ask the office handling your benefit for an exemption form. You can then use the certificate as proof of exemption when applying for a 'tax exempt disc' from the Vehicle Licensing Agency.

Further Information

Directgov is a very useful government site.
The Disabled Drivers’ Association promotes the personal mobility of disabled people.

Public transport

I am now 22 and I use a Jazzy 1121 powerchair outdoors which really is a lifeline for me. I am unable to drive but I don't feel I lose out. I use taxis, buses and trains independently in my powerchair. Katie

To see what’s possible see Mathew’s Travels with my Wheelchair.

You may be entitled to free travel on public transport, either because of your age or because of your ataxia. Contact your local authority's transport department or your social worker for more information.

Smooth ride groove guide is an interactive travel site written by and for young disabled people. You are invited to review user-friendly and wheelchair-accessible places to visit, stay and eat across the UK. It’s aimed at over 18 year olds.

If you want to see your story, poem, ideas or review here, email alex@ataxia.org.uk.

Helpline: 0845 644 0606

Driving and travel

Driving

Public transport