Looking for a free car in Maryland, a low-cost car, or help paying for car repairs? This page brings together the car assistance programs we found for Maryland 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 | 3 |
|---|---|
| Types of help available | Low-cost cars, Car loans, Repair help, Free cars |
| State TANF program | Temporary Cash Assistance (DHS) |
| Low-income car insurance | Maryland Auto Insurance Fund (insurer of last resort) |
| Vehicle replacement grant | None found in our research |
Nonprofit car programs in Maryland
Vehicles for Change
Donated cars repaired by ASE-certified mechanics and sold at low cost with credit-union loans. Requires a partner-agency referral. 855-820-7990.
Second Chances Garage
Car and repair help for people re-entering the workforce.
Garrett County Community Action
Community action car program for rural Western Maryland.
Government car assistance in Maryland
Transportation Assistance Program (DHS)
Provides reliable used vehicles expected to last two years or 24,000 miles to eligible low-income families.
Car repair help in Maryland
Fixing the car you already have is often the fastest way to keep working. These Maryland programs can help with car repairs:
- Second Chances Garage (Frederick)
You can also ask Community Action Agencies, churches and charities in Maryland for one-time repair help. See charities that help with car repairs and emergency car repair assistance.
Low-income car insurance in Maryland
Maryland does not have a low-income rate program, but the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund (MAIF) insures drivers who are turned down by private insurers. Read our guide to low-income car insurance by state.
Statewide help available to everyone in Maryland
- Temporary Cash Assistance (DHS): ask your caseworker about “supportive services” or transportation assistance for work.
- 211 Maryland: 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 Maryland drivers.
How to apply for car help in Maryland
- Gather your documents using our application checklist.
- Ask a caseworker, employer, church or counselor for a referral letter.
- Contact the Maryland 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 Maryland?
Free car giveaways are limited in Maryland, but you can find low-cost cars, loans or repair help from local nonprofits and government help through Temporary Cash Assistance (DHS). You can also apply with Free Car Help.
Does Maryland have government help with cars?
Maryland’s TANF program (Temporary Cash Assistance (DHS)) can provide transportation supports such as car repairs or gas help for eligible families. Transportation Assistance Program (DHS): Provides reliable used vehicles expected to last two years or 24,000 miles to eligible low-income families.
How do I apply for a free car in Maryland?
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 Maryland
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 Virginia — including Vehicles for Change and Ways to Work
- Free car programs in District of Columbia — including Ways to Work – Family Matters of Greater Washington and Vehicles for Change
- Free car programs in Delaware
- Free car programs in Pennsylvania — including Community Auto – The Lighthouse Foundation and Ways to Work
- Free car programs in West Virginia — including Good News Mountaineer Garage