What to Consider When Renting a Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle in Toronto & the GTA
Imagine planning a long-awaited family trip, attending a special event, or simply needing temporary transportation for yourself or a loved one who uses a wheelchair. Finding accessible, reliable transportation can be challenging – rideshares and taxis aren’t always wheelchair-friendly, and public transit may not provide the comfort and convenience you need.
That’s where renting a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) makes all the difference. Whether you need a WAV for yourself, a family member, or a caregiver, finding the right rental ensures a comfortable, stress-free experience. WAV rentals aren’t the same as standard car rentals – you’ll need to consider factors like vehicle type, entry style, ramp options, insurance, and rental terms.
At Universal Motion, we provide side-entry and rear-entry WAV rentals in Toronto & the GTA, offering flexible options to meet your specific needs. Here’s everything you need to know before booking your WAV rental.
Choosing the Right Accessible Vehicle for Your Needs
Every WAV is different, and selecting the right one depends on who will be using the vehicle, how often, and the type of accessibility features required.
Will you be driving the WAV yourself, or will a caregiver or family member be assisting? Do you need extra space for medical equipment? Will you be parking in underground garages? These factors will help determine whether a side-entry or rear-entry WAV is best for your situation.
To explore our fleet visit our Rental page
Side-Entry WAVs: Best for Independent Drivers & Front-Seat Passengers
- Easier access to the driver or front passenger seat
- Compatible with hand controls, allowing users to drive independently
- More flexible seating configurations—extra passengers can sit in the back
- Requires extra side clearance for ramp deployment, which may limit parking options
Rear-Entry WAVs: Best for Caregivers & Larger Wheelchairs
- Easier parking in tight spaces and underground garages
- More room for larger wheelchairs—ideal for power chairs or medical equipment
- No need for side clearance, making parking in standard spaces easier
- Wheelchair user remains in the rear of the vehicle, which may not be ideal for those who want to sit up front
Side-Entry vs. Rear-Entry WAV: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Side-Entry WAV | Rear-Entry WAV |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Independent drivers, front-seat passengers | Caregivers transporting family members |
| Parking | Requires extra side clearance | Easier in tight & underground spaces |
| Interior Space | More flexible seating | More room for larger wheelchairs |
| Ease of Access | Allows transfers to driver’s seat | No additional maneuvering required |
| Ramp Position | Side door entry | Rear door entry |
| Passenger Capacity | Wheelchair user + up to 6 passengers | Wheelchair user + up to 4 passengers |
For a deeper dive into the differences between side-entry and rear-entry WAVs, check out our Rear-Entry
vs. Side-Entry WAV Guide.
Rental Costs and Mileage Limits
Before booking your WAV rental, it’s important to understand the costs and mileage policies. Universal Motion offers flexible rental pricing, allowing you to rent for a day, week, or longer, depending on your needs.
Rental Rates for Wheelchair-Accessible Vans:
Dodge Accessible Van: Starting at $145/day for 7+ days.
- Chrysler Accessible Van: Starting at $165/day for 7+ days.
- All rentals include 200 km/day, with additional mileage at $0.20 per
Additional Cost Considerations:
- Fuel Policy: Vehicles must be returned with a full tank, or a refueling fee will apply.
- Cleaning Fee: Excessively dirty vehicles may incur a cleaning charge.
- Delivery and Pick-Up Fees: Universal Motion delivers rentals in the GTA, with fees based on distance.
- One-Way Rentals: Available with a minimum drop-off fee of $100.
For a full breakdown of pricing and available options, visit our Rental page
Rental Insurance and Documentation Requirements
Before booking a WAV rental, ensure you have the necessary insurance and documents to avoid complications. Having proper documentation ensures a smooth rental experience and compliance with Ontario’s driving regulations.
Proof of Insurance:
- Universal Motion provides mandatory auto insurance, but renters are responsible for any vehicle damage.
- Insurance coverage can often be transferred from a personal auto policy or credit card rental insurance.
- A valid proof of insurance may be required before picking up the vehicle
Required Documentation:
- A valid G-class driver’s license (or equivalent for out-of-province renters).
- A credit card for security deposits and additional charges.
- Additional drivers must be listed in the rental agreement (extra fees may apply).
Disadvantages of Ramps (Manual and Automatic)
- All drivers must be at least 25 years old to rent a WAV.
- More than two drivers may incur an additional fee.
Why Choose Universal Motion for Your WAV Rental?
Choosing the right wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) rental is about more than just finding a van—it’s about selecting a company that understands accessibility, mobility, and the challenges renters face. At Universal Motion, we specialize in providing safe, reliable, and flexible WAV rentals across Toronto & the GTA with a focus on convenience and customer care.
Here’s why Universal Motion is the #1 choice for WAV rentals:
Largest WAV Rental Fleet in Toronto & the GTA
- We offer both side-entry and rear-entry WAVs, ensuring that you find the perfect fit for your needs.
- Our inventory includes Dodge, Chrysler, and Toyota WAVs, giving you options based on space, accessibility, and seating configurations.
- Whether you need a WAV for a short-term rental or long-term accessibility solution, we have a van that suits your lifestyle.
Flexible Pick-Up & GTA-Wide Delivery Options
- Can’t make it to our location? No problem! We deliver WAV rentals anywhere in Toronto & the GTA.
- Choose between picking up your vehicle or having it delivered directly to your home, hotel, hospital, or airport for maximum convenience.
30+ Years of Expertise in Accessibility & Mobility Solutions
- As a company dedicated to helping individuals with mobility challenges, we bring decades of experience in adaptive vehicle solutions.
- Our team understands the unique needs of renters, whether you’re booking for a loved one, a caregiver, or yourself.
Affordable, Transparent Pricing with No Hidden Fees
- We offer competitive daily, weekly, and long-term rental rates with clear pricing upfront.
- Our 200 km/day mileage policy and no hidden fuel or cleaning fees ensure you know exactly what to expect.
Trusted by Ontario Families & Healthcare Providers
- We are highly rated and trusted by individuals, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and mobility specialists across the GTA.
- Our customer-first approach means we’re here to help you find the best WAV rental for your needs.
Recommended Booking Time
Planning ahead can make all the difference when renting a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. WAV rentals are in high demand, particularly during busy travel seasons, holidays, and special events. To secure the best vehicle for your needs, consider booking in advance based on the time of year:
Peak Season
(May–October, Holidays): Demand is at its highest, so we recommend booking at least 7 days in advance to guarantee availability. Whether you’re planning a summer getaway or need a WAV for a family gathering, reserving early ensures a stress-free experience.
Off-Peak Season
(November–April, excluding holidays): There is generally more availability, and bookings can be made 24-48 hours in advance for short-term or last-minute needs.
Tip: If your WAV rental is for a special event, medical appointment, or travel, it’s best to plan even further ahead to avoid last-minute issues.
Cancellation Policies
Unexpected changes happen, and flexibility is key when booking a WAV rental. Universal Motion offers a straightforward cancellation policy based on the time of year:
Peak Season (May – Oct, Holidays)
- 7+ days before pickup: No charge.
- 48 hours or less before pickup: Charged for two rental days.
Off-Peak Season (Oct – April, excluding holidays)
- 24+ hours before pickup: No charge.
- Less than 24 hours before pickup: Charged for one rental day.
Need to reschedule instead? Contact us as early as possible, and we’ll do our best to adjust your reservation to a more convenient date. Reach us anytime on our dedicated Contact page.
Situations Where Renting a WAV is Ideal
A WAV rental can offer freedom and flexibility in various situations, whether it’s for short-term convenience or a long-term mobility solution. Below are some of the most common reasons why individuals and families rent wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
Temporary Disability Recovery
If you or a loved one is recovering from surgery, an injury, or a temporary mobility condition, renting a WAV can help regain independence during the healing process. Instead of relying on expensive medical transport or inaccessible public transit, a WAV rental allows you to attend doctor’s appointments, therapy sessions, and social events comfortably.
Example: John recently had knee surgery and is unable to climb into his regular vehicle. Renting a WAV allows his wife to drive him to follow-up appointments while ensuring he can ride in comfort.
Travel & Vacations
Exploring a new city or heading on a road trip? Renting a WAV makes travel smoother, allowing wheelchair users to enjoy every part of the journey without accessibility concerns. Whether you’re visiting family, touring a new destination, or embarking on a weekend getaway, a WAV rental provides convenience, comfort, and peace of mind.
Example: Sarah and her father, who uses a wheelchair, are planning a summer trip to Niagara Falls. Instead of dealing with unpredictable taxis or inaccessible rideshares, they rent a WAV, ensuring stress-free travel.
Family Gatherings & Special Events
Holidays, birthdays, weddings, and graduations should be enjoyed without accessibility barriers. A WAV rental ensures that everyone in the family can be part of these special moments.
Example: The Nguyen family is hosting a wedding, and their grandmother, who uses a wheelchair, needs reliable transportation to and from the venue. Renting a WAV allows her to travel with ease and comfort, making the celebration more inclusive.
Testing Before Buying
Thinking about purchasing a WAV? Renting one first is a great way to test different models and determine which features best suit your lifestyle before committing to a purchase.
Example: Alex is considering buying a side-entry WAV but isn’t sure if it’s the right fit. By renting for a week, he experiences the vehicle’s convenience and makes an informed decision.
Waiting for a WAV Conversion or Repair
If your current WAV is undergoing maintenance or if you’re waiting for a custom vehicle conversion to be completed, renting ensures you’re never without reliable transportation.
Example: Maria’s WAV is in the shop for necessary modifications. Instead of feeling stuck at home, she rents a WAV for a few weeks to maintain her routine and daily outings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Renting a Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle
At Universal Motion, we understand that renting an accessible vehicle comes with many questions. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common concerns to help guide your rental decision.
Yes, WAV rentals are available for anyone needing extra space, accessibility, or transportation for someone with mobility challenges.
Most auto insurance policies or credit card rental coverage can extend to WAV rentals. Be sure to confirm coverage with your provider before booking.
Universal Motion rentals are primarily available for use within Ontario. If you plan to travel outside the province, discuss your trip details with our team at booking.
Vehicles must be returned with a full tank and in good condition. We offer flexible drop-off options, including a convenient key drop box for after-hours returns.
How to Book a Rental with Universal Motion
At Universal Motion, we make the rental process simple and hassle-free.
- ✔️ Choose Your Vehicle – Select from our fleet of side-entry accessible vans.
- ✔️ Submit a Form or Call Us – Contact us to check availability and reserve your rental.
- ✔️ Pick Up or Schedule Delivery – Get your WAV at our GTA location or request delivery.
- ✔️ Enjoy Worry-Free Mobility! – Travel with confidence knowing you have a safe and reliable accessible vehicle.
Call us today to book your rental or inquire about availability!