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Free Cars and Car Help for Students

Many car programs accept people enrolled in school or job training, especially parents in school. Students also have access to reduced transit fares and campus emergency funds.

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Free Cars and Car Help for Students

Options for students

  • Car programs that accept students: for example Sioux Empire Wheels to Work (full-time school or work) and Ohio's Cars for Jobs and Diplomas.
  • Campus emergency grants can cover car repairs or gas so you can stay in school.
  • Workforce (WIOA) training programs often cover transportation costs while you train.
  • Student transit passes are often free or reduced: see transportation assistance.

Tips for student drivers on a budget

  • Ask your insurer about good student and away-at-school discounts
  • Compare the cost of a car with campus transit and bike programs
  • Use a monthly cost worksheet before buying
  • Check your school's financial aid office about adjusting your cost of attendance for transportation

Students who were in foster care

Former foster youth may have extra help through Chafee programs and Education and Training Vouchers. See car help for foster youth.

Where to start

  • Apply with us. Fill out our free online application. We review your situation and point you to programs you may qualify for.
  • Check your state guide. Each state page lists nonprofit car programs, loan programs and government help in that state.
  • Call 2-1-1. United Way's free, confidential helpline connects you with local transportation help.
  • Ask your TANF caseworker about "transportation supportive services". Many states pay for car repairs, insurance or registration when you need a car for work.
  • Contact your Community Action Agency. Most U.S. counties have one, and many run car loan, repair or gas programs.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a job to qualify as a student?

Some programs accept full-time school or training instead of a job. Check each program's rules on our state pages.

Related help

Find help in your state

Reviewed November 2026. This page was researched using official government and program sources. Programs change often, so please confirm details with each program before applying. How we research.

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Need a reliable car? We can help.

Applying is free and takes about 10 minutes. We review every application and point you to programs you may qualify for.

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