How to Use Accessible Toilets Around the World

If you’ve ever travelled as a disabled person or carer, you’ll know just how crucial reliable access to clean, secure and dignified toilets can be. In the UK, the National Key Scheme (NKS)—commonly known as the RADAR Key—has been a lifeline for many. But what happens when you travel abroad? Are there similar schemes in place?

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In this article, we take a look at what you need to access disabled toilets when travelling abroad.

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🇩🇪 Germany (and beyond): Eurokey (Euroschlüssel)

Germany leads the way in Europe with its Euroschlüssel (Eurokey) system. Much like the UK’s RADAR Key, the Eurokey provides access to thousands of accessible public toilets, lifts, and facilities across:

• Germany
• Austria
• Switzerland
• Parts of France, Italy, and other European countries

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It's issued to disabled people who meet certain eligibility criteria, but evidence must be submitted, in parallel to the National Disability Card scheme's approach to issuing its custom RADAR Keys.

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👉 Find out more about the Eurokey and how to get it

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🇮🇪 Ireland: The Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) Key

In Ireland, the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) provides a dedicated key for accessing locked accessible toilets. This key functions in a similar way to the RADAR Key and is available to IWA members or those who qualify due to disability or mobility needs.

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Many public buildings, shopping centres, and transport hubs in Ireland are fitted with IWA-compliant locks, making this key an important tool for independent access and dignity while out and about.

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👉 Learn more about the IWA Key

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🇫🇷 France: Sanisettes in Paris

In Paris, you’ll come across a unique system: Sanisettes—self-cleaning public toilets found throughout the city.

• Fully automated and free to use
• Wheelchair-accessible models available
• Designed to self-clean after each use, improving hygiene
• No key required

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While not part of a national key scheme and not designed specifically for use by disabled people, sanisettes offer a relatively inclusive option for locals and tourists alike. However, as with all automated systems, accessibility can sometimes vary depending on maintenance and design.

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🇦🇺 Australia: MLAK (Master Locksmiths Access Key)

Australia operates the MLAK system, which allows eligible people to access locked accessible toilets in public spaces such as:

• Parks
• Libraries
• Train stations
• Changing Places facilities

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The system is well-regarded, although not quite as widespread as the UK's RADAR Key scheme. Users must apply for the MLAK and provide supporting documentation.

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👉 More info about the Australian disability key

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🇺🇸 United States: No National Key Scheme

The US doesn’t have a universal system like RADAR or Eurokey. Instead, accessible toilets are typically either unlocked, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), or require assistance from staff in private venues to access.

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While the ADA sets clear standards, the lack of a national key can sometimes lead to inconsistent access, particularly in older buildings or smaller towns.

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🇯🇵 Japan: Open Access and High Standards

Japan sets the bar high when it comes to accessible toilets:

• They are found in most public places, especially train stations and shopping centres
• Often equipped with hoists, adult-sized changing tables, and emergency call buttons
• Generally unlocked and free to use

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While there’s no key system, the consistent availability and advanced features make Japan one of the most accessible countries for disabled travellers.

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🇳🇴🇸🇪🇩🇰 Scandinavia: Local Solutions and Digital Access

In Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, accessible toilets are widely available but not part of a national key system. Instead, access may be:

• Controlled by local municipalities
• Gained through digital apps or codes
• Managed via smart locks or local cards

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Though convenient in some areas, it can be less predictable for visitors and less useable for those without access to technology.

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🗝️ Why the RADAR Key Still Matters

With over 10,000 accessible toilets across the UK, the RADAR Key scheme provides:

• Peace of mind
• Independent access
• Consistency—you know the key will work in thousands of places

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As schemes elsewhere continue to evolve, the UK remains one of the few countries with a truly nationwide system designed around user dignity and ease of access.

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✈️ Travelling Abroad? Here’s What You Can Do:

• Check ahead: Look into local schemes like Eurokey or MLAK before travelling.
• Apply for a compatible key if you're planning to visit Europe or Australia.
• Download apps or contact tourism boards for up-to-date information on accessible facilities.
• And of course, always bring your RADAR Key—some locations in Europe (like Ireland and parts of France) have adopted compatible locks.

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💡 Conclusion

As accessible toilet schemes continue to evolve, the UK remains a leader in accessible toilet provision, as one of the few countries with a truly nationwide system designed around user dignity and ease of access. The RADAR Key scheme is more than just a piece of metal—it’s a passport to dignity, independence and access. National Disability Card holders can apply for a National Disability Card custom-designed RADAR Key available exclusively to card holders.