WAV Grant Scheme 2025

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLE GRANT SCHEME 2025 (WAV25)

Program Timeline & Application Process
The WAV25 grant initiative launches January 6, 2025, with two application periods planned for the year. A limited number of applications will be accepted each cycle on a first-come basis through the NTA’s online portal.

Key Dates to Remember

First Application Window: Opens January 6, 2025.
Submissions close either when capacity is reached or by June 30, 2025 (whichever occurs first).
Second Application Window: Opens July 2025 with separate funding available.
Final Deadline: November 28, 2025 (or when funds are exhausted).

Mandatory Requirements
All applicants must complete these by December 12, 2025:

Vehicle Certification: Proposed WAV passes inspection and obtains licensing
Driver Training: Operator completes NTA-approved disability awareness course

Eligibility Guidelines
Who can apply?

New SPSV license seekers (individuals/companies)
Current WAV operators upgrading vehicles
Standard taxi license holders converting to WAV operations (with option to revert later)

Who can Avail of the Scheme?

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
To qualify, applicants must meet the following conditions:

Tax Compliance: Keep taxes up-to-date and in good standing throughout the application and grant period.
Clean Record: Have no convictions under the Taxi Regulation Act (2013 or later) or upheld complaints related to SPSV operations within the last 24 months. Applications may also be affected by ongoing investigations or unresolved complaints.
Training Requirement: Complete a free NTA-approved disability awareness training course (for applicants or drivers) to ensure inclusive service standards.
Public Listing: Agree to share contact details on an NTA-approved public platform or booking app for priority service access.
Insurance: Maintain valid SPSV insurance as required by current taxi laws (Taxi Regulation Acts 2013/2016 and SPSV Regulations).
Vehicle Standards: Use a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) that meets all technical specifications outlined in SPSV Regulations.
Ownership Rights: Own the vehicle outright or have legal rights to use it (e.g., lease, hire-purchase agreement) for at least 12 months from the application date.
Application Limits: Submit no more than five applications total.
Trip Records: Keep accurate logs of wheelchair-accessible trips (WAV25J records) and share them with the NTA within 10 working days if requested.
Grant Compliance: Failure to meet terms of previous NTA grants could disqualify current or future applications.
Reapplication Rules: Applicants who received provisional Round 1 grants but didn’t finalize them are barred from applying to Round 2.

Applying for the Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV25) Grant: A Step-by-Step Guide.

Before You Apply

Confirm Eligibility: Review Section 7 of the guidelines and carefully read the WAV25 Grant Scheme’s Terms & Conditions (available under “Forms and Guides” at www.nationaltransport.ie).
Plan Ahead: Research wheelchair-accessible vehicles and confirm availability. Ensure you can secure insurance for your chosen vehicle.

Application Steps

Submit Online Application:
- Access the form via the National Transport website: Forms and Guides.
- Deadline: Applications close on 28 November 2025. Funding is limited, so apply early. If funds run out before the deadline, a waitlist may apply.
Await Decision:
- If approved, you’ll receive a Provisional Grant Letter (valid for 5 months, until 12 December 2025, or until funds expire—whichever comes first).
- If rejected, you’ll be notified with reasons and may be asked for additional details.
Important Reminders:
- Do not purchase a vehicle until you receive your Provisional Grant Letter.
- Keep your contact details updated with the National Transport Authority (NTA).

Preparing Your Application
Gather these documents before starting:

Tax Details: PPS number (individuals) or company tax reference number (must be tax-cleared).
Licence Information: SPSV driver or vehicle licence details (if applicable).
Training Certificate: Proof of disability awareness training completed within the last 3 years (include course provider and completion date).

Key Tips

Ensure the name on your application exactly matches your Revenue records.
Incomplete applications will be rejected—double-check all details.
The NTA may verify your information and share it with authorized third parties for legal or public safety purposes (e.g., Driver Check App).

After Approval

Your grant is subject to compliance with the Terms & Conditions, payment forms, and training certificates.
The NTA may update the Scheme’s Terms & Conditions—check their website regularly for changes.

Important Conditions

Repayment: If you breach the Terms & Conditions, the NTA may require full or partial repayment of the grant.
Legal Terms: In case of conflicts between this guide and the official Terms & Conditions, the latter takes priority.

Data Protection
Your information will be used to administer the grant and comply with taxi regulations. The NTA follows the Data Protection Act 2018 and shares data only as necessary for legal or public safety reasons.

Apply for the WAV Grant Today!

Don’t miss out on this chance to make your business more accessible and inclusive. Get in touch with us today to find out more about scrapping your old car and replacing it with a WAV using the 2025 grant scheme!

By participating in the WAV25 Grant Scheme, operators can significantly contribute to enhancing accessible transportation services in Ireland, ensuring inclusivity and mobility for all passengers.