Mobility scooter permit for public transport

MissMarple

Anyone goes on the bus on their mobility scooter? I've learnt that I need a scooter permit to use public transport. I was wondering if bus operators accept permits issued by another operator? I really hope I don't need to get a separate permit from each operator in the area.

Ross_Alumni

Hopefully you don't need one for every operator @MissMarple, that would be inconvenient. The only thing I can compare it to is my bus pass, which is issued by Metro but can be used across operators as long as I'm within the specified locations that the pass can be used, so hopefully that is the same for the permit. 

When you get the permit, it might be worth asking about this so that you can receive clarification.

MissMarple

Thanks @Ross_Scope I'm not sure how it works. I read on one bus operator's website that I need to pass a driving assessment, actually getting on and off a bus at a depot before the permit is issued. The other operator only seems to ask me to fill in an online form with details of the scooter. I'll make a few phone calls once I've gathered the energy to do so and update my post in case it helps someone else in the future.

Alex_Alumni

Thanks @MissMarple The different requirements are confusing, and quite wearing to have to contend with. It's not something I've come across before, but then I've been using a powerchair to get about and not a scooter.

I'll see if I can hunt down some information too!

littleacorn

I have not come across this as a powerchair user but just want to mention that getting the powerchair on board and placing it in the allocates space can be difficult. A scooter is much loger and bulkier and wonder if it will fit. 

Alex_Alumni

You're right @littleacorn there's a leaflet from Stagecoach which runs through the details, I think it comes down to some classes of mobility scooter not being the right size or weight to travel safely on a bus, the ones that are safe need a permit. Unfortunately more admin from the sound of it!

'Class 3’ scooters are larger and are capable of travelling at 6-8mph. These are not designed to be carried by bus and should therefore be refused for carriage. They can also easily be identified, as they must be fitted with front/rear lights, hazard warning lights, and a manual brake.

I hope that's useful @MissMarple

MissMarple

Thanks @littleacorn and @Alex_Scope My scooter is a tiny, compact one, not bigger than a powerchair. I'm sure I'll still need to practise how to navigate it in small corridors though.

Alex_Alumni

That's good to know @MissMarple you should be fine on buses then, once you get a permit sorted.

It's good to practice, the more you use the scooter the easier you'll find it. Navigating spaces becomes quite natural after a while, you almost don't know you're doing it!