Can You Rent a Mobility Scooter? [Cost Breakdown]

A mobility scooter can provide independence and the ability to go where you want, when you want, greatly improving the quality of life for those with mobility issues. 

But buying a mobility scooter can be a significant financial investment, especially if you only need one for a short period of time. 

In these cases, you may wonder: 

Can you rent a mobility scooter? 

The answer is yes! 

In this article, we’ll explore the option of renting a mobility scooter and provide a cost breakdown to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you. 

We’ll discuss the different rental options available, including short-term rentals for vacations or special events and long-term rentals for those who need a mobility scooter on a more ongoing basis. 

We’ll also provide tips for finding the best rental deal and give you an idea of what you can expect to pay. 

So, if you’re considering a mobility scooter but are unsure if you want to commit to buying one, keep reading to learn more about renting a mobility scooter.

Key Takeaways:

• Mobility scooters can be rented for short-term use such as vacations or special events or long-term use for those who need a mobility scooter on a more ongoing basis.
• Renting a mobility scooter for a week can cost around $250
• Insurance may cover the cost of renting a mobility scooter if it is medically necessary.
• Common rental use cases include traveling, day trips, events, temporary mobility issues, and trying a scooter before purchasing.
• Different rental terms offered include daily, weekly, monthly and long-term rentals.
• Some companies offer pick-up and delivery services and may include insurance in their rental package.
• Be aware of any fees for damage or late returns that may be charged by the rental company.
• Mobility scooters are designed for people with mobility impairments but are not restricted to people who are disabled.

Common Scooter Rental Situations

Many people rent mobility scooters while on vacation or when they need a mobility aid temporarily due to an injury or surgery.

In some cases, insurance may cover the cost of renting a mobility scooter if it is medically necessary. 

It is a good idea to check with your insurance provider to see if they cover mobility scooter rentals.

Here are some of the most common rental use cases: 

• Traveling: If you are planning to go on a trip and will be staying in a place that is not easily accessible by car, a mobility scooter can be a convenient way to get around. This is especially useful if you have mobility issues that make it difficult to walk long distances.
• Day Trips: If you are planning to visit a theme park, for instance, a mobility scooter can be a convenient way to get around and avoid long waits in line for rides.
• Events: If you are attending a large event, such as a music festival or fair, a mobility scooter can be a convenient way to get around and avoid getting tired from walking.
• Temporary mobility issues: If you have a temporary injury or medical condition that makes it difficult to walk, a mobility scooter can help you get around until you are able to walk again.
• Try before you buy: Renting a mobility scooter can allow you to try out different models and brands before committing to purchasing one. This can help you find the scooter that is the best fit for your needs and preferences.
• Your scooter has broken down: Rather than having to wait for your scooter to be repaired, renting a scooter can allow you to continue to get around and go about your daily activities while yours is being fixed.

Common Rental Terms

There are a variety of rental terms for mobility scooters that are offered by different companies in different locations. 

Some common options include daily rentals, weekly rentals, monthly rentals, and long-term rentals. 

Many companies offer pick-up and delivery services and may include insurance in their rental package. 

It is also important to be aware of any fees for damage or late returns that may be charged by the rental company.

Do You Need to Be Disabled to Rent a Mobility Scooter?

Mobility scooters are designed to help people with mobility impairments, such as difficulty walking or standing, to get around more easily. 

They are not necessarily restricted to people who are disabled. 

Lots of people, such as those with temporary injuries or conditions, or those who have difficulty walking long distances, may use mobility scooters to help them get around more easily.

Additionally, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability, including in the rental of mobility scooters. 

This means that it is illegal for a rental company to refuse to rent a mobility scooter to someone based solely on their disability status.

However, rental companies may have certain requirements or restrictions in place for the use of their mobility scooters, such as age or weight limits.

These requirements may vary depending on the specific rental company, the location, and the type of scooter being rented.

Cost Breakdown of Renting a Mobility Scooter

There are many factors that can influence the cost of renting a mobility scooter, including the type of scooter, the length of the rental period, and the location of the rental company. 

Some additional factors that may affect the cost of a mobility scooter rental include:

• Delivery and pickup fees: Some rental companies may charge a fee for delivering the scooter to your location and picking it up when the rental period is over.
• Damage deposit: Some rental companies may require a damage deposit to cover any damages that may occur during the rental period. This deposit may be refundable if the scooter is returned in good condition.
• Insurance: Some rental companies may offer insurance as an optional add-on for an additional fee. This insurance may cover damages to the scooter, personal injury, or other losses.
• Accessories: Some rental companies may offer accessories, such as baskets or covers, for an additional fee.
• Usage fees: Some rental companies may charge usage fees based on how long the scooter is used or how far it is driven.

Here is a sample cost breakdown for a week-long rental of a mid-range mobility scooter:

Scooter rental: $160

Delivery fee: $20

Damage deposit: $100 (refundable)

Insurance: $50

Accessories: $30

Total upfront cost: $360

Total cost after deposit is returned: $260

Please note that this is just a sample cost breakdown and actual costs may vary depending on the specific rental company and the factors mentioned above.

How Much is a Mobility Scooter Rental for a Week?

The cost of a mobility scooter rental for a week can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the type of scooter, the location of the rental company, and any additional fees or charges. 

Some rental companies may offer discounted rates for longer rental periods, such as a week or more.

In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $250 or slightly more for a week-long standard mobility scooter rental.

Higher-end scooters, which may have more advanced features such as higher weight capacities, all-terrain, tandem (two-seats), or longer range, may cost significantly more to rent.

Finding Mobility Scooter Rentals Near You

There are a few different ways you can find mobility scooter rentals near you:

• Search online: A quick internet search using keywords such as “mobility scooter rentals near me” or “mobility scooter rentals [city name]” can provide a list of rental companies in your area. You can also try searching for specific rental companies to find local branches or affiliates.
• Check with medical supply stores: Many medical supply stores offer mobility scooter rentals as well as sales. You can check with stores in your area to see if they have rental options available.
• Ask your healthcare provider: Your healthcare provider or physical therapist may have recommendations for local rental companies or be able to provide you with information about rental programs through hospitals or rehabilitation centers.
• Check with local senior centers or community centers: These organizations may have information about local rental programs or be able to refer you to rental companies in the area.
• Check with your cruise, hotel, or tourist destination: If you are going on a trip your tourist service providers will more than likely be connected with scooter rental companies to assist you. Talking to tourist offices in the city you are visiting might also be an alternative to consider.

Once you have a list of rental companies, it is a good idea to contact a few of them to compare prices and rental terms, as well as to ask about any requirements or restrictions for rental. 

You may also want to ask about delivery and pickup options, as well as any available insurance or accessory options.

How to Rent a Mobility Scooter

Here are the general steps you can follow to rent a mobility scooter:

1. Determine your needs: Think about your mobility needs and how you plan to use the scooter. Consider factors such as the type of terrain you will be using the scooter on, the distance you will be traveling, and any additional features you may want, such as a basket or canopy.
2. Research rental companies: Look for rental companies in your area that offer the type of scooter you need. You can search online, check with medical supply stores, ask your healthcare provider, or check with local senior centers or community centers for recommendations.
3. Contact rental companies: Contact several rental companies to compare prices and rental terms, as well as to ask about any requirements or restrictions for rental. Ask about delivery and pickup options, as well as any available insurance or accessory options.
4. Choose a rental company: Choose a rental company that offers a scooter that meets your needs at a price that fits your budget. Consider any additional fees or charges, such as delivery fees or insurance.
5. Fill out a rental agreement: Most rental companies will require you to fill out a rental agreement that outlines the terms of the rental, including the rental period, the cost of the rental, and any additional fees or charges. Carefully read and understand the terms of the agreement before signing.
6. Make a payment: Most rental companies will require payment in advance or a deposit to hold the scooter. Ask about the payment options available.
7. Pick up or have the scooter delivered: Some rental companies may offer delivery and pickup services for an additional fee, while others may require you to pick up and return the scooter yourself. Be sure to ask about the delivery options available.
8. Familiarize yourself with the scooter: Before using the scooter, make sure you understand how it works and how to operate it safely. Many rental companies will provide instructions or training on how to use the scooter.
9. Enjoy your rental: Once you have the scooter, you can start using it to help you get around more easily. Be sure to follow all safety guidelines and to use the scooter in accordance with the terms of the rental agreement.

What Type of Mobility Scooter Should You Rent?

There are many different types of mobility scooters available for rental, and the best type for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. 

Here are some things to consider when deciding what type of mobility scooter to rent:

• Mobility needs: Consider your mobility needs and how you plan to use the scooter. Will you be using it mostly indoors or outdoors? Will you be traveling long distances or mostly short distances? Will you be using it on rough terrain or smooth surfaces? Answering these questions can help you determine the type of scooter that is best suited to your needs.
• Size and weight: Think about the size and weight of the scooter and whether it will be easy for you to transport and store. Some scooters can be disassembled for easier transport, while others may be too large or heavy to easily transport.
• Comfort: Consider the comfort of the scooter and whether it has features such as adjustable seats and armrests. You will be spending a lot of time on the scooter, so it is important to choose one that is comfortable.
• Price: Think about your budget and how much you are willing to spend on a rental.

It is also a good idea to try out a few different types of scooters before making a decision to ensure that you find one that is comfortable and meets your needs. 

Some rental companies may offer short-term rentals or demos, which can be a good way to try out different scooters before committing to a longer rental period.

For a more specific view of your alternatives, here’s an article where we detail the main characteristics of the most popular kinds of assistive scooters:

10 Types of Mobility Scooters: We Help You Pick

Rent to Own

Rent to own, also known as lease to own, is a financing option that allows you to rent a mobility scooter with the option to purchase it at the end of the rental period. 

With a rent-to-own agreement, you will typically make monthly payments that include both a rental fee and a purchase option fee. 

At the end of the rental period, you will have the option to purchase the scooter for a predetermined price, which may be based on the remaining value of the scooter.

Rent-to-own agreements for mobility scooters may be a good option for people who do not have the upfront cash to purchase a scooter outright, or who are not sure if they want to commit to purchasing a scooter.

It is important to carefully read and understand the terms of a rent-to-own agreement before signing, as the terms can vary significantly from one company to another. 

Be sure to ask about the monthly payment amount, the purchase option price, and the length of the rental period, as well as any fees or charges that may be included. 

It is also a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different companies to find the best deal.

Another common alternative for offsetting the initial cost of a scooter is financing it.

You can read more about it here:

Financing a Mobility Scooter: 9 Options to Pay Monthly

Renting a Mobility Scooter vs. Owning One

There are both pros and cons to renting a mobility scooter versus owning one. 

Here are some things to consider when deciding which option is right for you:

Renting a mobility scooter:

Pros:

• Lower upfront cost: Renting a scooter typically requires a smaller upfront payment than purchasing one.
• Flexibility: Renting a scooter allows you to try out different models or brands before committing to a purchase, or to use a scooter on a temporary basis, such as while recovering from an injury or surgery.
• No maintenance: When you rent a scooter, the rental company is responsible for maintenance and repairs.

Cons:

• Ongoing costs: Renting a scooter can be more expensive in the long run, as you will be paying a rental fee every month.
• Lack of personalization: When you rent a scooter, you cannot make modifications to it that might improve your experience.

Owning a mobility scooter:

Pros:

• Ownership: When you own a scooter, you have the freedom to make modifications or sell it if you no longer need it.
• Potential cost savings: Owning a scooter can be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if you use the scooter frequently or if you are able to find a good deal on a used scooter.
• Personalization: When you own a scooter, you can choose the specific model and features that best suit your needs and preferences.

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost: Purchasing a scooter typically requires a larger upfront payment than renting one.
• Maintenance and repairs: As the owner of a scooter, you are responsible for maintaining and repairing the scooter. This can be an added expense, especially if the scooter is used frequently or if it is an older model.

All the claims made in this article are only for informational purposes, based on the writer’s experience and not clinical advice. You should always consult your physician or physical therapist if you have any doubts about how this applies to your specific case.