Introducing Bolt Assist and WAV in London – Sign up as a driver

At Bolt, we believe in providing accessible, inclusive transport options for all community members. We’re soon expanding our services with 2 specialised categories in London: Assist and WAV. 

If you’re an existing Bolt driver partner or a licensed PHV driver with a wheelchair-accessible vehicle in London this article is for you.  

Drive passengers who depend on accessible transport in London, and earn 15% more for every ride. 

Moreover, if you know licensed drivers with wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs), invite them to join Bolt using your personal referral code — you’ll both earn £150 once they complete their first 10 rides in any category.  
Assist, for passengers who need a little extra help

Our upcoming category, Assist, supports passengers who need a little extra help — mostly with getting in and out of the vehicle and foldable mobility devices. Because some passengers using this category have service animals, this category is pet-friendly for certified service animals like guide dogs.

Driving with extra care and support

If you’d like to join the Assist category, all you need to do is to learn how to assist passengers safely and respectfully. Together with the Disability Rights UK, we developed an educational module to help the Assist drivers guide visually impaired passengers, load a folded wheelchair, and support other needs the passengers may have.

No vehicle modifications needed

If your car is already eligible for the Standard category and you have enough boot space for foldable aids, feel free to join the Assist category.

The WAV (wheelchair-accessible vehicle) category supports passengers who use wheelchairs or need a fully accessible vehicle.

To join this category, your vehicle must have:

• A working ramp or lift.
• Securement systems for wheelchairs.
• Sufficient space to accommodate passengers and mobility equipment.

If you’d like to join the WAV category, all you need to do is to learn how to safely board, secure, and support passengers with the help of an educational module we developed with Disability Rights UK.

Register your interest now! 

If you’re already a driver partner

All you need to do is complete the driver guidance and achieve a 100% score. Once that’s done, you’ll be enrolled into the Assist or WAV category within 3–5 working days.

If you want to start driving with Bolt

If you’re interested in driving with Bolt, register now. After that, contact our support online or visit your local Bolt Hub to express your interest in joining the Assist or WAV categories.

Note that if you apply for the WAV category, you’ll need to provide proof that your vehicle meets the necessary requirements and be ready to demonstrate securement procedures if requested.

This initiative is part of Bolt’s wider commitment to inclusive mobility and driver empowerment. We’re calling on private-hire drivers across the UK to sign up for the new virtual accessibility guidance and join a growing movement to make transport fairer and more equitable.

Kamran Mallick, CEO of Disability Rights UK, said: "Accessible transport is not a luxury, it's a fundamental right that enables independence and full participation in society. We are delighted to partner with Bolt on this crucial initiative. By co-designing driver guidance and introducing dedicated accessible ride options like Bolt Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles and Bolt Assist, we are taking a significant step towards breaking down the barriers disabled people face daily in London, offering more choice and confidence when travelling."

Emily Dalton, Head of UK Operations at Bolt, said: “We’re urging as many drivers as possible to register their interest. Everyone deserves access to reliable and respectful transport, and with ride-hailing now an essential part of London’s transport network, we must ensure it's as inclusive as possible. By partnering with Disability Rights UK, we’re raising the bar for the entire industry and making a long-overdue shift toward accessible mobility for all.”

Will I still receive Standard ride requests?
Yes, the Assist and WAV rides are offered in addition to your rides in other categories, including Standard.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, by law and policy, service animals such as guide dogs must be accepted. Refusing to let them in the car may lead to the account suspension.

What’s the earning difference?
You earn 15% more per completed ride in the Assist or WAV categories compared to Standard.