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Choosing a mobility scooter: a buyer's guide

3-wheel vs 4-wheel, folding vs full-size, and how to pick.

3-wheel or 4-wheel?

Three-wheel scooters turn tighter and maneuver better indoors and in stores. Four-wheel scooters are more stable outdoors and on uneven ground. Think about where you'll use it most.

Folding/travel or full-size?

A “fold-and-go” travel scooter is light, comes apart, and fits in a trunk — great for errands and trips. A full-size scooter gives more range, a bigger battery, and a higher weight capacity for everyday use.

Can you operate it safely?

A scooter needs the upper-body strength to steer the tiller and the ability to get on and off on your own. If that's a struggle, a power wheelchair may fit better — take our 2-minute mobility assessment.

Match the specs to you

Check the rated weight capacity, seat width, ground clearance, and turning radius. A padded captain's seat and an adjustable tiller make longer outings more comfortable.

Is it covered?

See does Medicare cover a mobility scooter — we verify your benefits and handle the exam and paperwork. Browse scooters or call us 24/7 and we'll help you choose.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Talk to your healthcare provider about your specific situation. Medicare coverage depends on medical necessity and documentation and is not guaranteed.