Benefit claimants eligible for up to 40 hours free driving lessons

Motability can ensure a grant is given to eligible benefit claimants to cover the cost of learning to drive.

Claimants must also obtain a vehicle through the Motability scheme.

Jobcentres can provide separate funding for lessons in specific cases.

Department for Work & Pensions benefits, including Personal Independence Payment and Disability Living Allowance, could qualify claimants for the free lessons.

Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Child Disability Payment, War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement and Armed Forces Independence Payment are a few other qualifying benefits.

Britons who have their council tax bill reduced or written off through the Council Tax Support scheme could also take advantage of the perk.

Driving Lessons Grants are open to claimants who have a Motability vehicle or one on order and due to be delivered within four months.

Claimants hoping to get free lessons must also ensure they have a provisional driving licence.

Qualified drivers could also receive free lessons if they need to familiarise themselves with adapted controls on their new motor.

Students under 25 whose parents receive an eligible benefit can also apply for the Motability scheme.

Claimants accepted can apply for an exemption from paying road tax and do not need to cover repairs or servicing needed due to everyday use.

However, claimants do need to exchange their mobility allowance for a Motability car and will need to foot the bill for both the theory and practical tests.

Britons hoping to get free lessons can check if they are eligible by calling Motability on 0800 500 3186 and asking for a Driving Lesson Grant application form.

A case manager will be tasked with assessing an application and it can take up to 10 weeks to be reviewed.