Are WAV vehicles VAT exempt?

In many cases, wheelchair accessible vehicles may be VAT exempt in the UK if the vehicle has been permanently adapted for wheelchair use, is purchased by or for a disabled person, and is intended for personal or domestic use. A declaration form is usually required. Eligibility rules can vary, so it is important to confirm details with the dealer or converter before purchasing.

Are WAV vehicles more expensive to insure?

Insurance for a wheelchair accessible vehicle can sometimes cost more than cover for a standard car. This is because WAVs may include specialist adaptations and parts that are more expensive to repair or replace. Some insurers specialise in adapted vehicles. Always declare all modifications to avoid invalidating your insurance.

Yes, leasing a wheelchair accessible vehicle may be possible, subject to status. The most common way is through the Motability Scheme, which provides lease arrangements for eligible customers. Some dealerships and specialist WAV converters may also offer private leasing options. Car Finance 247 does not currently offer leasing.

What finance options are available for WAVs?

Wheelchair accessible vehicles can be financed in similar ways to standard cars. Hire Purchase (HP) and Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) are two common options. HP allows you to make monthly payments and own the vehicle once the agreement ends. PCP offers lower monthly payments and flexibility at the end of the contract, with options to return, part exchange, or pay a final balloon payment to keep the vehicle. Finance is subject to status.

What grants are available for WAVs?

Support may be available through organisations such as the Motability Foundation, which provides means-tested grants to help with upfront costs and essential adaptations. The Government’s Access to Work scheme may also contribute to transport or adaptation costs for work-related travel. Eligibility varies, so applicants should check the criteria for each scheme.

A guide to financing a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV)

Written by Louis Rix Updated 24 Mar 2026

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A wheelchair accessible vehicle, also known as a WAV, is designed to make travelling by car easier and safer for wheelchair users. Whether you are buying for yourself or a family member, understanding your WAV finance options could help you spread the cost and find a vehicle that suits your needs.

In this guide, we explain what a WAV is, how wheelchair accessible vehicle finance works, and what grants or schemes may be available in the UK, subject to status.

What does WAV mean in cars?

WAV stands for wheelchair accessible vehicles. These vehicles are specially adapted to allow a wheelchair user to drive or travel as the passenger and are usually categorised by size (small, medium, or large).

WAVs are often converted from standard cars. The conversion may include:

A lowered floor
A ramp or lift for easy access
Wider entry points
Adapted seating layouts
Hand controls for driving

Because of the specialist modifications involved, WAVs can cost more than standard cars. That is why many buyers look into WAV finance options to try and make the purchase more manageable.

Finance options for a WAV

You could finance a wheelchair accessible vehicle in a similar way to a standard car. At Car Finance 247, we work with lenders who may be able to offer you a Hire Purchase (HP) or Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) deal, subject to status. Here’s how they work:

Hire Purchase (HP): HP is one of the ways to finance a WAV. You may pay a deposit upfront and make fixed monthly payments, plus interest. Once all payments are made, you own the vehicle. This option could work well if you want to keep the WAV long term.
Personal Contract Purchase (PCP): PCP is another form of car finance for WAVs.With PCP, you may pay a deposit and make monthly payments, plus interest. But, at the end of the agreement, you can choose to return the car, part exchange it, or pay a final balloon payment to own it. PCP could be helpful if you want lower monthly payments or like the idea of changing your vehicle every few years.

Be aware that you’ll need to let the lender know your WAV has been modified to get an accurate valuation, and detail any modifications that have been made.

Want to get a good idea of the loan terms you might expect? Use our car finance calculator tool to get an estimate of potential monthly payments.

Grants and funding for WAVs

There are several organisations that could help with the cost of a wheelchair accessible vehicle, particularly if you have significant mobility needs or a limited income.

The Motability Foundation offers support for people who qualify for the Motability Scheme. It offers means-tested grants designed to help with upfront payments and essential adaptations.

If you need a WAV for work related travel, the Government’s Access to Work scheme may be able to help with transport costs or specific adaptations. This support is linked to employment and cannot be combined with VAT relief, but it could still reduce costs.

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Choosing the right WAV finance option

Financing a wheelchair accessible vehicle is a big decision. The right option depends on:

Your budget
Whether you want to own the vehicle
How long you plan to keep it
Whether you are eligible for support schemes

Take time to compare offers, check the total cost and make sure the vehicle meets your accessibility needs.

Get a quote today to see what HP or PCP WAV finance deals you could be eligible for and check out our guide on car finance with a disability for more helpful information.

Disclaimer: Car Finance 247 Limited is a credit broker, not a lender. Finance is subject to status and affordability and is not guaranteed. We do not provide financial advice. Terms and conditions apply.