Hand Controls for Cars: A UK Guide for Drivers

By Scott Smith. Last reviewed 19 October 2026.

What Types of Hand Controls Are There?

Most systems use a lever beside the steering wheel. The most common is a push pull hand control, where you push forward to brake and pull back to accelerate. Other fitted designs use a ring on or behind the steering wheel for the accelerator, with a separate lever for the brake. These are installed by specialist converters and usually need an automatic car. Portable units are a rod with a handle that links to the pedals and can be moved between cars.

Are Portable Hand Controls a Good Idea?

Portable hand controls can help some people on holiday or while someone recovers from a leg injury, and they need no changes to the car. They are not a replacement for a fitted system for everyday driving. They rely on clamps holding firm on the pedals, they can get in the way of your feet and they are not set up for you by a professional. Before using one, get advice from a driving assessment centre, check the unit suits your car and your condition, and tell your insurer. Practise somewhere safe and quiet before going on the road.

Why Is a Driving Assessment Important?

A driving assessment looks at your physical abilities, reaction times and the controls that suit you, then lets you try different systems in a dual controlled car. Driving Mobility is the national network of accredited centres, and an assessment there will recommend the right hand controls and any other changes, such as a steering ball or a seat swivel. Most people find it reassuring to have an expert confirm what they need before spending money. The assessment report can also help with insurance and with Motability.

Do You Need to Tell the DVLA?

You must tell the DVLA about certain medical conditions and disabilities that affect your driving, and your licence may then show that you need adapted controls. The rules depend on your condition, so check the official guidance on driving with a medical condition. You should also tell your insurer about any changes to the car, including portable controls, as failing to do so could affect a claim.

How Much Do Fitted Controls Cost?

Costs vary with the system and the car, and a converter will give a quote after seeing the vehicle and the assessment report. Simple push pull systems are usually much cheaper than electronic ones. If you get the higher rate mobility part of PIP or a similar benefit, the Motability scheme can include adaptations with a new car, often at little or no extra cost for common controls. Our guide to the Motability scheme explains how it works.

Can You Hire a Car with Hand Controls?

Some UK hire firms offer cars with hand controls, but they usually need plenty of notice and are not available at every branch. Ask when booking, and check what type of controls they fit. Some disabled drivers take their own portable unit, but always ask the hire company first, as it may not be allowed under their terms.

Other Driving Adaptations

Hand controls are often only one part of the picture. A steering ball or a tri pin fixed to the wheel lets you steer with one hand while the other works the controls. Left foot accelerators help drivers who cannot use their right leg but have good use of the left. Indicator and light switches can be moved to the hand control lever, so you do not need to let go. Getting in and out matters too, and swivel seats, transfer boards and wheelchair hoists can make a car usable for many more people. An assessor will look at all of these together, so the car is set up as a whole rather than bit by bit. Ask about secondary controls as well, such as the horn, wipers and handbrake, which can all be adapted.

Getting Started

1. Check your licence and tell the DVLA if your condition requires it.
2. Book an assessment at an accredited Driving Mobility centre.
3. Choose a suitable car, usually an automatic.
4. Have controls fitted by a specialist converter and tell your insurer.
5. Take a few lessons with an instructor who teaches in adapted cars.

For more on choosing a vehicle see our guide to cars you can drive in a wheelchair, and for parking our Blue Badge guide. Getting in and out may also be easier with one of these car transfer aids.

The portable units below were in stock when we checked each listing. Use one only after advice on whether it suits you and your car.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Portable Hand Controls Legal in the UK?

There is no simple yes or no, as it depends on your licence, your condition and your insurer. Get advice from a driving assessment centre and tell your insurer before using one.

Do I Need an Automatic Car?

For almost all hand control systems, yes. Manual cars need a clutch, which is very hard to adapt.

Can Other People Still Drive the Car?

Usually, yes. Most fitted controls leave the pedals working, so other drivers can use the car normally.

Does VAT Apply to Hand Controls?

Adaptations for a disabled person can qualify for VAT relief. Ask the converter or seller about eligibility.

Can I Learn to Drive with Hand Controls?

Yes. Many driving instructors teach in cars fitted with hand controls, and Driving Mobility centres can point you to them. You take the same driving test as anyone else, in an adapted car, and your licence will show any conditions that apply.