Car programs in Maryland
These programs in Maryland may help with a car, repairs or car costs. Contact each program to confirm eligibility and availability.
Vehicles for Change
Area: Baltimore and statewide
One of the largest car-ownership nonprofits in the U.S., providing repaired donated cars at low cost to working families, plus financial education. Visit website
Transportation Assistance Program (Maryland DHS)
Area: Statewide
Helps eligible families get a reliable vehicle or repairs for work, working with Vehicles for Change. Visit website
Second Chances Garage
Area: Frederick
Provides affordable, reliable cars and repair help to working people with limited income.
Government car help in Maryland
Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) is Maryland'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 Maryland
- 2-1-1: dial 211 for free, confidential referrals to local transportation, repair and gas help in Maryland.
- Community Action Agencies: local agencies in Maryland 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 Maryland.
- Veterans: the VA automobile allowance and adaptive equipment grants (see free cars for veterans).
- Medicaid rides: free non-emergency medical transportation for Maryland Medicaid members.
How to apply for car help in Maryland
- 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 Maryland have a free car program?
Yes, there are local programs in Maryland 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 Maryland?
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 Maryland?
Apply directly to the programs listed on this page, ask your Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) caseworker about transportation help, and fill out the free Free Car Assistance application.
Nearby states
- Alabama
- Florida
- Georgia
- Kentucky
- Mississippi
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- Washington, DC
- West Virginia
- All states
Reviewed November 2026. We research Maryland 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.