Vehicle retrofit program

Overview of the Vehicle retrofit program program:

The Vehicle Retrofit Program is offered by the Government of New Brunswick’s Department of Social Development to support residents with permanent disabilities by helping them adapt their personal vehicles for accessibility needs. This initiative is part of the broader Disability Support Program, which aims to enhance the independence and community participation of individuals with disabilities by reducing transportation barriers. This program provides financial assistance to offset the cost of converting a personal vehicle—such as installing ramps, lifts, hand controls, or other mobility-assistance equipment. The goal is to enable individuals with physical disabilities to travel more independently, attend work or educational opportunities, access medical appointments, and engage in social or community life. Applicants must undergo a functional assessment and work with a case manager to determine their eligibility and funding needs. The program is designed for both new and existing vehicles, provided the modifications are necessary and supported by medical or functional recommendations. The funding is intended for essential accessibility modifications, not general repairs or non-disability-related upgrades. This is a needs-based program, and the total assistance amount will depend on individual circumstances, family income, and demonstrated medical necessity. The program significantly contributes to the quality of life for persons with disabilities in New Brunswick by promoting mobility, autonomy, and full community integration.

Benefits of the Vehicle retrofit program program:

• Up to $15,000 in non-repayable support per applicant
• Helps fund ramps, lifts, hand controls, and other accessibility modifications
• Supports independence and mobility for persons with disabilities
• Works alongside case managers and medical professionals
• Can be applied to both new and existing personal vehicles
• Promotes social inclusion, employment, and education access
• Needs-basedcustomized to individual medical and functional assessments
• Reduces transportation barriers in rural and urban communities

Eligibility criteria of the Vehicle retrofit program program:

• To be eligible for the program, applicants must:
• Be a resident of New Brunswick
• Be a person with a permanent disability that restricts mobility
• Have a functional need for a vehicle modification to enhance independence
• Undergo an assessment with a case manager from the Department of Social Development
• Provide medical documentation or professional recommendations supporting the need for specific modifications
• Have or plan to purchase a vehicle that can be modified for accessibility
• Not have previously received the maximum funding limit under the program
• Meet income-based eligibility depending on individual and household circumstances
• Eligible modifications include:
• Wheelchair lifts or ramps
• Hand controls or driving aids
• Transfer aids or specialized seating
• Other modifications recommended by health professionals