Quick answer
Choose a mobility scooter in three steps: match its weight capacity and length to your body, pick a style for where you'll ride it most (indoors, outdoors or traveling), then add the features and accessories you need. Lightweight scooters hold up to 250 pounds; heavy-duty models hold up to 400 pounds.
A mobility scooter, also called a personal mobility vehicle (PMV), is a hand-operated mobility aid that gets you from point A to point B with less effort. It's a real investment, so it pays to check these three things before you buy.
Weight. Look for a scooter rated for your weight plus anything you'll carry, such as accessories, a purse or groceries.
| Scooter type | Weight capacity |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Up to 250 lbs |
| Heavy-duty | Up to 400 lbs |
Height. Overall scooter length affects comfort and safety.
Scooters come in four general styles: compact, midsize, travel and rugged outdoor. Most have a low profile and are less than 24 inches wide. The biggest choice is three wheels or four.
| Style | Best for |
|---|---|
| Three-wheel | Indoors, paved roads and sidewalks. Turns more easily in tight spaces like narrow hallways, entrances and corners. |
| Four-wheel | More heavy-duty. Handles rough terrain such as gravel roads, unpaved surfaces and grassy hills, and still works indoors. |
| Travel | Assembles and disassembles easily. The pieces are designed for easy handling and fit in your vehicle's storage area. |
Browse mobility scooters, travel scooters and heavy-duty scooters.
Check which features are available on the model you like. You can often swap the standard seat for a more comfortable cushion, or choose adjustable arms that move out of the way when you don't need them.
Features to look for: swivel seat, captain seat, adjustable seat, headlight.
Useful accessories: basket or bag, cup holder, scooter cover, scooter lift, batteries, flag, oxygen tank holder, saddle bag. See scooter accessories.
Good to know
Planning to take your scooter in the car? Most scooters come apart in three pieces, but some pieces are heavy, so make sure someone can help with the lifting. If you'll travel often, consider a scooter carrier or lift for your vehicle.
Lightweight scooters hold up to 250 pounds and heavy-duty scooters hold up to 400 pounds. Include anything you'll carry when you check the rating.
A three-wheel scooter turns more easily indoors and in tight spaces. A four-wheel scooter is sturdier and handles gravel, unpaved paths and grassy hills.
If you're under 5 ft 5 in, a scooter 42 inches long or less works well. If you're taller, choose one longer than 42 inches for more legroom.
Yes. Travel scooters come apart for transport, and most scooters break down into three pieces. A scooter lift helps if the pieces are too heavy to lift.
Need a hand?
Call us at 877-392-2531, Monday–Friday, 9–5 Eastern. You can also open a support ticket or chat with Abby on ezable.com.