NSW RMS: Powerchair use

Understanding motorised wheelchairs

Motorised wheelchairs are mobility aids designed to help people who have difficulty walking or are unable to walk. These chairs typically have two or more wheels and can travel up to 10km/h on level ground.

Mobility scooters, also known as gophers, are considered motorised wheelchairs under NSW Road Rules. However, this does not include recreational motor devices such as scooters, prams, strollers, or trolleys.

Who can use a motorised wheelchair?

Motorised wheelchairs are specially built for individuals who need assistance moving around due to physical disability or limited mobility.

Registration and licensing

  • No registration required: Motorised wheelchairs do not need to be registered in NSW.

  • No licence needed: You don’t need a driver’s licence to operate one.

Pedestrian status

Motorised wheelchair users are classed as pedestrians under the NSW Road Rules and must follow the same laws that apply to pedestrians.

To ensure safety for all path users, motorised wheelchairs must:

  • Not be capable of travelling faster than 10km/h

  • Be operated responsibly to avoid causing a traffic hazard or obstruction

  • Not be used under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Safe operation

To operate a motorised wheelchair safely, users should be able to:

  • Use the controls confidently and manoeuvre effectively

  • Maintain balance on uneven surfaces

  • Spot obstacles and avoid collisions

  • Judge speed and distance accurately

  • Make sound decisions to protect themselves and others

If you’re unsure about your ability to use a motorised wheelchair, speak to your doctor or occupational therapist for an assessment.

How to travel safely

  • Plan your route to stay on footpaths where possible

  • Use kerb ramps or driveways for safe crossings

  • Be cautious when leaving the kerb or entering a crossing

  • Always give way to pedestrians and be prepared to stop

  • Avoid major roads, highways, and roundabouts

  • If you must use the road, stick to quieter streets and face oncoming traffic

  • Attach a safety flag, lights, and reflectors to increase visibility

  • Consider rear-view mirrors for added awareness

  • Avoid steep slopes, uneven ground, and areas with poor visibility

Before travelling somewhere new, it’s a good idea to check the route in advance to make sure it’s safe and accessible.

Where you can use a motorised wheelchair

You can use your motorised wheelchair on:

  • Footpaths and nature strips (if safe to do so)

  • Shared paths (where pedestrians and cyclists are both allowed)

You should avoid:

  • Bicycle lanes and bicycle paths, except when crossing or when necessary to travel a short distance (up to 50 metres) to avoid an obstruction.

Information from NSW RMS January 2019
Provided by Summerland Scooters and Rehab
Phone: 02 6628 3915

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