Car programs in California
These programs in California may help with a car, repairs or car costs. Contact each program to confirm eligibility and availability.
Consumer Assistance Program (Bureau of Automotive Repair)
Area: Statewide
Income-eligible drivers (household income at or below 225% of the federal poverty level) can get up to $1,450 for emissions-related repairs after a failed Smog Check, or up to $2,000 to retire an old vehicle. Apply before starting any repairs. Visit website
Clean Cars 4 All
Area: Run by regional air districts
Helps income-qualified residents replace an older, polluting car with a cleaner vehicle (up to about $12,000 in some regions). Funding varies by air district, and some regions pause applications when money runs out.
CalWORKs transportation supportive services
Area: County welfare offices
CalWORKs participants can ask their county caseworker about help with car repairs, gas and other work-related transportation costs.
Government car help in California
CalWORKs is California's TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) program. If you receive or qualify for it, ask your caseworker about transportation supportive services. Depending on state rules, these can help pay for car repairs, insurance, registration, gas or sometimes a vehicle when you need it for work or training.
Find your local office through the federal TANF state directory.
Statewide resources in California
- 2-1-1: dial 211 for free, confidential referrals to local transportation, repair and gas help in California.
- Community Action Agencies: local agencies in California often run car loan, repair or emergency programs.
- Working Cars for Working Families: the National Consumer Law Center's car program directory.
- National charities: Free Car Foundation, 1-800-Charity Cars and Recycled Rides accept applications or nominations nationwide, including from California.
- Veterans: the VA automobile allowance and adaptive equipment grants (see free cars for veterans).
- Medicaid rides: free non-emergency medical transportation for California Medicaid members.
How to apply for car help in California
- Gather your ID, driver's license, proof of income, proof of address and proof of work or a job offer.
- Get a referral from a caseworker, workforce center, shelter, church or veterans service officer if you can.
- Apply to the programs above that fit you, and to our free application.
- While you wait, ask about repair help, gas vouchers and transportation help.
Help by need
- Low-Income Families
- Single Mothers
- Veterans
- Car Repair Assistance
- Car Payment Help
- Car Insurance Help
- Gas Vouchers
- Transportation Help
Frequently asked questions
Does California have a free car program?
Yes, there are local programs in California that help with cars, car loans or repairs, but most have limited vehicles and waiting lists. See the list on this page.
Who qualifies for car assistance in California?
Most programs look for household income under about 200% of the federal poverty level, a valid driver's license, a job, job offer or school enrollment, and the ability to pay for insurance.
How do I apply for free car help in California?
Apply directly to the programs listed on this page, ask your CalWORKs caseworker about transportation help, and fill out the free Free Car Assistance application.
Nearby states
Reviewed November 2026. We research California programs using official state agency and program sources and trusted national directories. Programs, amounts and eligibility change often, so please confirm details directly with each program. How we research.