Use of Transport (Own Vehicle and Employer’s) at Work

Some PAs may be required to use their own transport (eg. car) or be asked to drive a vehicle belonging to their employer or the person they are supporting (eg. a mobility car). Examples include:

• Using your own car to travel to and from the home of the person you’re supporting. This may be required depending on where they live
• Using your car as part of your working role. This may include shopping or doing errands for the person you’re supporting
• Using your car to drive the person you are supporting – say to an appointment, to go shopping or to access opportunities in the community.

Using your own car

To use your own vehicle you will need to have:

• A full driving licence which is relevant for the vehicle you use. For example, if you have a non-manual license you can only use this to drive a non-manual vehicle
• Up to date road tax for the vehicle
• An up to date valid MOT for the vehicle
• Insurance cover for business use that enables you to travel to and from work, as well as use your vehicle for work.

Whilst it is not required, your employer may want to ensure that you either: 

• Are the registered keeper on the registration document or
• Have the permission of the registered keeper to use the vehicle to show you are the registered owner of the car and have permission to use it.

Mileage Allowance Payments

If you are asked to use your own vehicle as part of your role as a PA you may be entitled to Mileage Allowance Payments (MAP). You will need to ask your employer about this.

Driving your employer’s car

A PA may also be requested to drive the car that belongs to the person they provide support to. In this situation your employer will be responsible for:

• paying the road tax
• paying the car insurance – the insurance must also allow other people to drive the vehicle
• paying for the petrol.

You will still be required to have a full driving licence to drive your employer’s vehicle.

If the vehicle is one you’ve never driven before, especially if it is a specially adapted vehicle, you will need to receive training on the use of any ramp or specially adapted part.

So for example, some employers might have adaptations to the steering wheel and controls. It is important for you to familiarise yourself with any adaptations and have the opportunity to practice driving the vehicle so that you can get used to it. Some vehicles might be larger or longer than you are used to driving, so it can take some time to get used to them.

You may also have to consider other health and safety concerns, such as weather and road conditions before driving the vehicle.

Next steps

Check with your employer for their policy on use of own transport. Take a look at the Millage Allowance Payments on the HMRC website to guide you in more detail.