Looking for a free car in North Carolina, a low-cost car, or help paying for car repairs? This page brings together the car assistance programs we found for North Carolina 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 | 4 |
|---|---|
| Types of help available | Low-cost cars, Car loans, Repair help, Gas & rides |
| State TANF program | Work First |
| Low-income car insurance | No state program; assigned-risk plan available |
| Vehicle replacement grant | None found in our research |
Nonprofit car programs in North Carolina
Wheels4Hope
Repaired donated cars sold for about $500 to working people referred by partner agencies. About 120 cars a year.
Working Wheels
Affordable cars and loans in Western North Carolina.
The CARes Project
Car program listed in the Working Cars directory.
Ways to Work
Low-interest car loans for working families.
Government car assistance in North Carolina
Work First supportive services
Ask your county DSS about transportation help.
Car repair help in North Carolina
Fixing the car you already have is often the fastest way to keep working. These North Carolina programs can help with car repairs:
- Work First supportive services — Ask your county DSS about transportation help.
You can also ask Community Action Agencies, churches and charities in North Carolina for one-time repair help. See charities that help with car repairs and emergency car repair assistance.
Low-income car insurance in North Carolina
North Carolina does not run a state low-income car insurance program. Drivers who are turned down by regular insurers can get coverage through the state’s assigned-risk plan, and most drivers can lower their premium by comparing quotes, choosing appropriate coverage for an older car, and asking for good-driver and low-mileage discounts. Read our guide to low-income car insurance by state.
Statewide help available to everyone in North Carolina
- Work First: ask your caseworker about “supportive services” or transportation assistance for work.
- 211 North Carolina: 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 North Carolina drivers.
How to apply for car help in North Carolina
- Gather your documents using our application checklist.
- Ask a caseworker, employer, church or counselor for a referral letter.
- Contact the North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
Free car giveaways are limited in North Carolina, but you can find low-cost cars, loans or repair help from local nonprofits and government help through Work First. You can also apply with Free Car Help.
Does North Carolina have government help with cars?
North Carolina’s TANF program (Work First) can provide transportation supports such as car repairs or gas help for eligible families. Work First supportive services: Ask your county DSS about transportation help.
How do I apply for a free car in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina
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 Tennessee — including Mechanics On A Mission and Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee – Wheels-to-Work
- Free car programs in Georgia — including Upper Ocmulgee River RC&D Council and Oconee River RC&D Council
- Free car programs in South Carolina — including The Cooperative Ministry