If you’re exploring hand controls for driving, chances are you’re asking one very important question:
“Is driving with hand controls actually safe — and is it legal in the UK?”
At PB Conversions, we speak to drivers every day who want independence, freedom, and confidence behind the wheel — but understandably want reassurance before taking the next step. Whether you’re living with a disability, recovering from an injury, or managing a long-term condition, safety and legality come first.
The short answer is yes, driving with hand controls is safe, when they’re professionally fitted, correctly matched to your needs, and used with the right training. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly why, answer the most common questions asked online, and help you make an informed decision with confidence.
What Are Hand Controls for Driving?
Hand controls are adaptive driving devices that allow you to operate the accelerator and brake using your hands, rather than foot pedals. They’re designed for drivers who have limited or no use of their legs, reduced strength, or restricted movement.
Modern hand controls are:
- Highly responsive
- Designed to meet strict UK safety standards
- Customisable to different disabilities and driving styles
- Compatible with both manual and automatic vehicles
When installed correctly, they integrate seamlessly into your vehicle — without compromising control or safety.
Is Driving with Hand Controls Safe?
Yes — when professionally installed and correctly used
Driving with hand controls is proven to be safe for thousands of UK drivers. In fact, many drivers report feeling more in control once they switch to hand controls, especially when leg fatigue, pain, or reduced mobility is removed from the equation.
Safety depends on three key factors:
- Professional installation
- Correct hand control type for your needs
- Driver assessment and familiarisation
At PB Conversions, safety is never an afterthought — it’s built into every recommendation we make.
Are Hand Controls Legal in the UK?
Yes — hand controls are completely legal in the UK
You are legally allowed to drive with hand controls in the UK, provided that:
- Your vehicle is safe and roadworthy
- The controls are professionally fitted
- You are medically fit to drive
Any required licence restrictions are followed
Do I need to tell the DVLA?
In most cases, yes.
You must notify the DVLA if:
- Your medical condition affects how you drive
- You use vehicle adaptations such as hand controls
The DVLA may request a medical assessment or driving evaluation — this is not a barrier, but a safeguard to ensure you’re driving safely and confidently.
Do Hand Controls Affect Insurance?
Another major concern we hear all the time.
You must inform your insurer, but it won’t automatically raise your premium
UK insurers require you to declare vehicle modifications, including hand controls. The good news is:
- Hand controls are considered safety adaptations
- Many insurers specialise in adapted vehicles
- Premium increases are not automatic
Failing to declare adaptations could invalidate your insurance — so transparency is essential.
Are Hand Controls Safe in Emergencies?
This is a very common fear — and a fair one.
Modern hand controls are designed for emergency response
High-quality hand controls allow:
- Immediate braking response
- Smooth acceleration control
- One-handed or dual-hand operation (depending on system)
Many drivers find reaction times improve once leg movement is removed, especially if they experience spasms, weakness, or delayed response in their lower limbs.
With proper training and the right setup, emergency handling remains safe and controlled.
What Types of Hand Controls Are Available?
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Choosing the right system is critical to safety.
Common hand control types include:
- Push-pull hand controls – push to brake, pull to accelerate
- Electronic accelerators – light-touch operation
- Radial controls – circular motion for smoother control
At PB Conversions, we assess your strength, coordination, range of motion, and vehicle type before recommending a solution.
Can Anyone Drive with Hand Controls?
Not automatically — and that’s a good thing.
A proper assessment ensures safety
You may need:
- A medical driving assessment
- Advice from a mobility specialist
- A short adaptation period
This process protects you, other road users, and ensures you feel confident — not rushed — when returning to driving.
Do Hand Controls Work in Any Car?
Most vehicles can be adapted — but compatibility matters
Hand controls can be installed in:
- Automatic vehicles
- New and used cars
However, compatibility depends on:
- Steering column design
- Pedal layout
- Electronic systems
PB Conversions checks vehicle compatibility first, ensuring no compromise on safety or manufacturer integrity.
Will I Need Special Driving Lessons?
Many drivers benefit from adapted driving lessons, especially if they’re new to hand controls.
This helps with:
- Muscle memory
- Emergency response confidence
- Smoother transitions back to independent driving
Lessons aren’t always mandatory — but they’re strongly recommended for peace of mind.
Are Hand Controls Reliable Long-Term?
Yes, when maintained properly.
High-quality hand controls are:
- Built for daily use
- Tested for durability
- Designed to last years
Regular servicing and checks ensure continued safety and is something we always advise.
Take Control with Confidence – Explore Hand Controls at PB Conversions
Ready to drive safely, legally, and confidently with hand controls?
At PB Conversions, we offer a wide range of professionally approved hand control systems, carefully selected to suit different disabilities, vehicle types, and driving styles. Every installation is guided by compatibility checks, expert assessment, and real-world driving safety — because your independence deserves the highest standard.
Whether you’re unsure which hand control is right for you, need advice on DVLA requirements, or want reassurance about vehicle compatibility, our friendly team is here to help. We don’t believe in pressure — only clear, honest guidance tailored to your needs.
- Explore our range of hand controls
- Check vehicle compatibility with expert advice
- Speak to our team for personalised support and a free quote
Get in touch with PB Conversions today and take the next step towards safe, confident, independent driving.
Common Questions People Ask About Hand Controls (FAQs)
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Is driving with hand controls harder than with foot pedals?
A. Most drivers say it feels strange initially, but it becomes second nature very quickly.
2. Can hand controls be removed later?
A. Yes — most systems are removable.
3. Will hand controls damage my car?
A. No — professional installation avoids permanent damage.
4. Can I still use foot pedals if I want to?
A. Many systems allow dual control use if appropriate.
Recently had my fourth vehicle adapted by Paul At Pb Conversions.always does a first class job and with first class service & always easy to deal with. Thanks for the great service Paul from you and your crew over the years.
Kiran was very helpful today explaining some of the issues I had with my hoist, and how to avoid them from happening again.
Dealt with the adaptations for my son's new motability vehicle - very friendly, efficient and helpful. Really pleased.
Very helpful and knowledgeable engineer, fast and efficient service
Thank you so much for all your advice, help and very professional job on adapting our car. Without your advice I would never have known to apply for a grant. You were excellent, thank again.
Due to my husband's condition we need a car with adaptions, we were advised by his paraplegic group to visit and this place is the best. Felt so relaxed talking about what we needed, all the staff were so friendly and so well informed, going above and beyond, especially Paul Berridge. I fully recommend this business. Honest and reliable. Thank you.
Staff are super super friendly, helpful, extremely informative and really nothing Paul & Co can’t do to any vehicle. PERFECTION is their middle name! Thank you so much for your outstanding service to me over the years and I look forward to using your company all my driving life.
Excellent work done on our car and very professional company. Great customer service and prompt response to emails.
I am very pleased with the left foot accelerator adaption. The communication with the team was excellent
Our second time of utilising PB Conversions and still as impressed with their skills and assistance! They listen to your needs, their aim is to get you mobile and ensure you are happy and safe. Fully recommend
Very happy with my Adaptations best company I have used
I recently had an under ring accelerator and hand brake fitted to my car and I am extremely pleased with it. All of the staff I spoke to were extremely knowledgeable and helpful, explaining exactly how they worked. I would have no hesitation in recommending this company for mobility assistance
I’ve been using PB Conversions for over 30 years and cannot fault their care and attention to detail with every adaptation I’ve needed. And if something isn’t quite right they quickly sort it. Truly professional and innovative service every time
I have used PB on 2 occasions and 2 different cars. I have found their staff efficient, caring and most pleasant to deal with. Their work on my vehicles has been completed on schedule, flawlessly, with no issues arising after 2 + years use
Very good work and customer service
As always a professional and with care job
Good and prompt adaptions fitted. Support offered and flexible. All staff were helpful and communicated
If you’re looking for 5⭐️ customer service and quality workmanship look no further. I was kept in the picture all the way through the build with photos and telephone calls. A date was set for completion and they delivered on that exact day. It was refreshing to deal with such a professional company. The personal emails from your staff made it a pleasurable experience which is hard to find these day!
Really speedy and flexible response from PBC to an emergency situation requiring hand controls being fitted to a new vehicle. I much appreciated their support
Always excellent service from PB conversions. They had fantastic knowledge of the adaption options available and whether they would fit
Friendly, first class, prompt and efficient service at a very competitive price. Would recommend the company to all.
Would you like an assessment?
If you are a disabled driver, or know a disabled driver in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire or Northamptonshire, please contact PB Conversions for a free no obligation quote to assess what products would benefit you.