Looking for a free car in Tennessee, a low-cost car, or help paying for car repairs? This page brings together the car assistance programs we found for Tennessee 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 | Free cars, Repair help, Car loans |
| State TANF program | Families First |
| Low-income car insurance | No state program; assigned-risk plan available |
| Vehicle replacement grant | None found in our research |
Nonprofit car programs in Tennessee
Mechanics On A Mission
Free vehicles and repairs for single veterans, single parents, widows and others in need.
Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee – Wheels-to-Work
Donated cars for clients and employees who complete budgeting and driving classes.
Government car assistance in Tennessee
First Wheels (TN DHS)
Vehicle loans for Families First (TANF) participants.
Car repair help in Tennessee
Fixing the car you already have is often the fastest way to keep working. These Tennessee programs can help with car repairs:
- Mechanics On A Mission (Middle Tennessee)
You can also ask Community Action Agencies, churches and charities in Tennessee for one-time repair help. See charities that help with car repairs and emergency car repair assistance.
Low-income car insurance in Tennessee
Tennessee 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 Tennessee
- Families First: ask your caseworker about “supportive services” or transportation assistance for work.
- 211 Tennessee: 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 Tennessee drivers.
How to apply for car help in Tennessee
- Gather your documents using our application checklist.
- Ask a caseworker, employer, church or counselor for a referral letter.
- Contact the Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
Yes. Tennessee has nonprofit programs that give donated cars to people in need, usually with a referral. Low-cost car, loan and repair programs are also listed on this page.
Does Tennessee have government help with cars?
Tennessee’s TANF program (Families First) can provide transportation supports such as car repairs or gas help for eligible families. First Wheels (TN DHS): Vehicle loans for Families First (TANF) participants.
How do I apply for a free car in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee
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 Kentucky — including Goodwill Cars to Work and Goodwill Last Mile to Work
- Free car programs in Virginia — including Vehicles for Change and Ways to Work
- Free car programs in North Carolina — including Wheels4Hope and Working Wheels
- Free car programs in Georgia — including Upper Ocmulgee River RC&D Council and Oconee River RC&D Council
- Free car programs in Alabama — including Caring Cars – Family Services Center and On the Road Lending
- Free car programs in Mississippi — including On the Road Lending
- Free car programs in Arkansas — including Community Resource Group
- Free car programs in Missouri — including Working Wheels for Families and Project H.O.P.E. – Community Partnership of Southeast Missouri