Yes, you can buy a mobility car, but the process is unique. Instead of purchasing the vehicle from a dealership with your own money, you typically acquire it through a specialized government program using mobility allowances. In the United States, the primary avenue is not a direct purchase but a financial arrangement where your benefits cover the cost. The key program is the Automotive Mobility Program, often accessed through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for eligible veterans or via grants from organizations like the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Eligibility is the first major hurdle. You generally must prove you have a specific medical condition that severely impairs your ability to use a standard vehicle. Documentation from a healthcare professional is mandatory. The program then often provides a grant or a substantial financial contribution toward the vehicle's cost.
The next step involves choosing a Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) to outfit the vehicle. These are certified vendors who install modifications like wheelchair ramps, hand controls, or lowered floors. You don't just buy a car; you fund a conversion package. The table below illustrates common modifications and their approximate cost ranges, which are typically covered by the grant.
| Modification Type | Description | Approximate Cost Range (USD) | Typical Vehicle Types |
|---|
| Wheelchair Ramp (Manual) | A manual, fold-out ramp for entry/exit. | $1,500 - $3,500 | Minivans, Full-Size Vans |
| Wheelchair Ramp (Power) | An automated, deployable ramp. | $8,000 - $15,000 | Minivans, Full-Size Vans |
| Hand Controls | Allows driving without use of legs. | $1,000 - $2,500 | Most passenger vehicles |
| Lowered Floor / Drop Floor | Increases interior headroom for wheelchair users. | $12,000 - $20,000+ | Minivans |
| Swivel Seats | Rotates the driver/passenger seat for easier transfer. | $2,000 - $4,000 | Most passenger vehicles |
| Tie-Downs & Securements | Systems to safely secure a wheelchair inside the vehicle. | $500 - $1,500 | All modified vehicles |
The entire process requires significant paperwork and patience. It's not a quick purchase but a structured assistance program. You must work closely with your healthcare provider and the funding organization to get approved and then with a QVM to ensure the modifications meet your specific needs. The "purchase" is really the approval and fulfillment of a grant for a mobility solution.
