Class 3 mobility scooters
Mobility Scooters
Class 3 mobility scooters cover light transportation vehicles that are legal for road use. These scooters are capable of a top speed of 8mph (12.8 kmph) on roads and are not suitable for indoor use.
As such, the rules and regulations regarding Class 3 mobility scooters are much stricter than their Class 2 counterparts.
To begin with, all Class 3 scooters must be registered with the DVLA to be recognised as road legal. This can be done by filling out the V55/4 registration form for new vehicles, or the V55/5 form for used vehicles.
It must also be noted that no one under the age of 14 can operate a Class 3 scooter.
In order to ensure the safety of both the user and fellow road users, Class 3 scooters must abide by the following design specifications:
- Maximum weight of 150kg without the user
- Maximum width of 0.85 metres
- Must have a 4mph speed limiter for pavement and off-road surfaces
- Maximum speed of 8mph
- A fully functional and responsive braking system
- Front and rear lights
- Indicators
- Warning hazard lights
- A working horn
- A rear view mirrors
- An amber flashing (if used on dual carriageway)
Key features of Class 3 scooters:
- Designed for outdoor use
- More robust
- Require a ramp or lift to get them into a vehicle
- Longer battery life and tougher tyres means they can travel more distance
Size of Class 3 mobility scooters
All mobility scooters vary in length, width and height, so before deciding on a Class 2 or Class 3 scooter, ask yourself:
- how big must your scooter be for you to sit on it comfortably?
- will you have space to stretch out your legs?
- where you will store your scooter?
- Where will you principally be using it?
Summary
Class 3 scooters are often referred to as Road Class scooters and are much larger than their Class 2 counterparts.
You don't need a licence to drive a Class 3 scooter although a basic knowledge of the Highway Code for Mobility Scooter Users will be helpful.
Like with Class 2 scooters, you won't need to pay vehicle tax. However, as mentioned previously, you must register a Class 3 mobility scooter with the DVLA. To register, just complete a V55/4 for new scooters or a V55/5 if you've purchased a used one.
Before buying a Class 3 mobility scooter, always remember to read reviews online and visit in-store to try before you buy.
What’s more, speaking face to face with experts and suppliers will facilitate your decision-making process and assist you in finding a mobility scooter at the right price for you.
