Vehicle Purchased on Behalf of a Disabled Person is a special category of car in Turkey that can be bought with an exemption from the Special Consumption Tax (ÖTV) or with a tax reduction. Who is allowed to drive a vehicle registered for a disabled person, what conditions apply, what penalties exist, and how do the legal rules work? This article covers all the details.
What Is a Disabled Vehicle?
A disabled vehicle in Turkey is a car purchased with ÖTV exemption to help citizens with disabilities travel more independently. These vehicles are generally obtained under the following terms:
- Vehicles can be registered on behalf of persons with an official disability rate of 90% or higher.
- Persons with a disability rate between 40% and 89% may obtain specially adapted vehicles.
Conditions for ÖTV Exemption
Basic requirements for purchasing a vehicle with ÖTV exemption include:
- The medical board report must state at least a 90% disability rate.
- The engine displacement of the vehicle must not exceed 1600 cc (as of 2024, some hybrid and electric vehicles are subject to different limits).
- The vehicle must be registered in the disabled person’s name.
Who Can Drive a Disabled Vehicle?
The right to drive a vehicle registered for a disabled person varies according to the disability percentage.
| Disability Status | People Who Can Drive | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| 90% and above | Relatives up to the third degree and professional drivers | No special adaptations required |
| 40% – 89% | Only the disabled person themself | Special adaptations may be mandatory |
| Those with physical disability reports | The vehicle with special equipment can be driven only by the report holder | Adaptations must match the medical report |
Usage Rules for Those with 90% or Higher Disability
Vehicles purchased with a 90% or higher disability report can be used not only by the disabled person but also by relatives up to the third degree.
First-Degree Relatives
- Mother
- Father
- Children
Second-Degree Relatives
- Siblings
- Grandparents
- Grandchildren
Third-Degree Relatives
- Uncles and aunts (maternal and paternal)
- Cousins
Usage Rules for Those with 40% – 89% Disability
If the disability rate is between 40% and 89%, a specially adapted vehicle may be provided according to the medical report.
- Only the person named on the disability report is allowed to drive these vehicles.
- It is not legally permitted for relatives to drive such a vehicle.
Typical Adaptations
- Hand-controlled accelerator and brake systems
- Mandatory automatic transmission
- Steering wheel knob
Penalties Related to Use of Disabled Vehicles
If a disabled vehicle is driven by unauthorized persons, consequences may include:
- Seizure of the vehicle
- Revocation of the ÖTV exemption
- Significant tax liabilities
| Violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Vehicle used by unauthorized persons | Recovery of exempted ÖTV |
| Sale of the vehicle before the prohibited period ends | Tax penalty and vehicle removal from traffic |
| Use inconsistent with the disability report | Criminal proceedings and fines |
Documents Required to Drive a Disabled Vehicle
Drivers of a disabled vehicle should carry the following documents during traffic checks:
- Vehicle registration showing the vehicle is registered in the disabled person’s name
- Disability medical report
- Power of attorney (not always mandatory but recommended)
Sale of Disabled Vehicles and the 5-Year Rule
Vehicles purchased with ÖTV exemption cannot be sold for five years after purchase. If sold before five years elapse, the exempted ÖTV must be reclaimed and paid.
Who Can Use the Vehicle?
| User | 90% and Above Report | 40% – 89% Report |
|---|---|---|
| The disabled person themself | ✔ | ✔ |
| Parents | ✔ | ✘ |
| Siblings | ✔ | ✘ |
| Children | ✔ | ✘ |
| Cousins | ✔ | ✘ |
| Driver | ✔ (disabled person must be present) | ✘ |
| Friend / Neighbor | ✘ | ✘ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can drive a disabled vehicle?
If the report is 90% or above, relatives up to the third degree may drive; if the report is 40%–89%, only the disabled person may drive.
Can my neighbor drive my disabled vehicle?
No. Only authorized relatives or the disabled person may drive the vehicle.
How long must I wait before selling a disabled vehicle?
You must wait at least five years before selling a vehicle purchased with ÖTV exemption.
What should someone show during a traffic stop?
Vehicle registration, disability report, and identification are sufficient.
Can I drive the vehicle without the disabled person present?
Yes, if you are an authorized relative under the applicable rules (for example, with a 90% or higher report).