Looking for a free car in California, a low-cost car, or help paying for car repairs? This page brings together the car assistance programs we found for California residents, from charity car programs to government help. Listings change often, so contact each program to confirm eligibility before you apply.
| Nonprofit car programs found | 2 |
|---|---|
| Types of help available | Low-cost cars, Replacement grants, Car loans, Repair help, Insurance help |
| State TANF program | CalWORKs |
| Low-income car insurance | California Low Cost Auto Insurance |
| Vehicle replacement grant | Clean Cars 4 All / Replace Your Ride (CARB); Driving Clean Assistance Program |
Nonprofit car programs in California
Contra Costa County Employment & Human Services
County car program for residents working with Employment & Human Services.
Benicia Community Action Council
Community action car assistance for local families.
Government car assistance in California
Clean Cars 4 All / Replace Your Ride (CARB)
Up to $12,000 to scrap an older car and buy a cleaner new or used vehicle, plus charging help. Income limit about 300% of the federal poverty level. Some regions paused applications in 2026.
Driving Clean Assistance Program
Statewide grants (about $7,500–$12,000) and financing help toward a clean vehicle for income-qualified residents.
Consumer Assistance Program (BAR)
Up to $1,450 in emissions repairs after a failed smog check, or up to $2,000 to retire an old car if income-eligible.
California Low Cost Auto Insurance
Affordable liability insurance for income-eligible good drivers with a car worth $25,000 or less. Call 1-866-602-8861.
Car repair help in California
Fixing the car you already have is often the fastest way to keep working. These California programs can help with car repairs:
- Consumer Assistance Program (BAR) — Up to $1,450 in emissions repairs after a failed smog check, or up to $2,000 to retire an old car if income-eligible.
You can also ask Community Action Agencies, churches and charities in California for one-time repair help. See charities that help with car repairs and emergency car repair assistance.
Low-income car insurance in California
California runs the California Low Cost Auto Insurance program for income-eligible good drivers with a vehicle worth $25,000 or less, regardless of immigration status. Call 1-866-602-8861 to check eligibility. Read our guide to low-income car insurance by state.
Statewide help available to everyone in California
- CalWORKs: ask your caseworker about “supportive services” or transportation assistance for work.
- 211 California: dial 2-1-1 for local car repair funds, gas vouchers and car programs.
- Community Action Agencies: many run car, repair or emergency assistance programs.
- National programs: 1-800-Charity Cars, NABC Recycled Rides and nonprofit car loans.
- Veterans: the VA Automobile Allowance and adaptive equipment grants.
- Insurance: see low-income car insurance options for California drivers.
How to apply for car help in California
- Gather your documents using our application checklist.
- Ask a caseworker, employer, church or counselor for a referral letter.
- Contact the California programs above that match your needs.
- Apply with Free Car Help — it is free and takes about 10 minutes.
Never pay an application or delivery fee for a free car. Learn the warning signs of free car scams.
Frequently asked questions
Are there free car programs in California?
Free car giveaways are limited in California, but you can find low-cost cars, loans or repair help from local nonprofits and government help through CalWORKs. You can also apply with Free Car Help.
Does California have government help with cars?
California’s TANF program (CalWORKs) can provide transportation supports such as car repairs or gas help for eligible families. Clean Cars 4 All / Replace Your Ride (CARB): Up to $12,000 to scrap an older car and buy a cleaner new or used vehicle, plus charging help. Income limit about 300% of the federal poverty level. Some regions paused applications in 2026.
How do I apply for a free car in California?
Contact the programs on this page, ask a caseworker or nonprofit for a referral letter, and submit a free application with Free Car Help. Never pay a fee to apply.
Car programs in states near California
Most car programs only serve their own area, but if you live near a state line, or are moving, these neighboring states may have options:
- Free car programs in Oregon — including Drive Away Hunger – Portland Rescue Mission and Car Ministry – St. Matthew Lutheran Church
- Free car programs in Nevada
- Free car programs in Arizona — including SHIFT – Labor’s Community Service Agency and Wheels to Work – NACOG & Arizona Central Credit Union