Accessible Car Rental & Mobility Support
ACRISS is committed to promoting inclusive and accessible car rental services for all travellers. Many major car rental providers now offer a range of services, vehicle adaptations, and mobility support 
solutions designed to assist customers with disabilities or reduced mobility, helping make travel safer, more comfortable, and more independent.
Early planning and communication can help ensure the most suitable vehicle and support services are available when needed, allowing customers to book with confidence and travel with greater independence.
As accessibility awareness continues to grow across the mobility industry, car rental companies increasingly provide practical support options such as:
- Hand controls
- Steering aids
- Wheelchair-accessible vehicles
- Adapted driving controls
- Additional mobility equipment
(Please refer to the approved ACRISS Special Equipment Codes below for supported equipment classifications.)
Many of these services are available at no additional cost; however, they often need to be requested in advance and, in some cases, booked directly with the car rental provider. Some rental companies also work with specialist mobility partners to supply permanently adapted vehicles where required.
Planning an Accessible Car Rental
Accessibility services and available equipment may vary between rental companies and locations. Customers are encouraged to review the services offered by their chosen provider before travelling.
Additional support may include:
- Vehicle accessibility adaptations
- Wheelchair loading ramps
- Steering and driving assistance devices
- Custom mobility solutions
- Accessible rental location facilities
- Assistance for drivers and passengers with reduced mobility
Some services may require advance notice to ensure the appropriate equipment and support are available upon arrival.
Supporting Independent & Inclusive Travel
Accessible car rental plays an important role in supporting equal access to travel and greater independence on the road. By encouraging clear communication and early booking of accessibility requirements, customers can enjoy a smoother, safer, and more inclusive rental experience.
ACRISS also recognises that accessibility extends beyond the vehicle itself.
Many rental companies are continuing to improve:
- Website accessibility
- Online booking processes
- Customer support services
- Accessibility information and communication
These improvements support broader industry accessibility initiatives, including compliance with the new EU Accessibility Act requirements, EU Accessibility Act 2025 (EAA).
Helpful Booking Tips
To help ensure the best possible rental experience, ACRISS recommends:
- Booking any required adaptations or specialist equipment in advance, (e.g. hand controls, wheelchair-accessible vehicles) using the special equipment codes available or following the car rental company’s instructions.
- Using the relevant ACRISS Special Equipment Codes where available
- Clearly communicating any mobility or accessibility requirements during the booking process
- Confirming availability, suitability, and any potential costs directly with the rental company
- Checking driver eligibility requirements for adapted driving controls
- Reviewing local accessibility and parking regulations, including international Blue Badge or permit schemes
- Checking whether any specialist insurance requirements apply
ACRISS Special Equipment codes in support of accessibility needs
ACRISS provides support for disabled drivers and accessibility needs through its approved equipment and optional extras codes:
- HCL: Hand Controls left
- HCR: Hand Controls right
- SPN: Spinner/Steering wheel knob
- WAR: Wheelchair Access ramp
- WHC : Wheelchair
Links to some of our members websites on Accessibility