Looking for a free car in Texas, a low-cost car, or help paying for car repairs? This page brings together the car assistance programs we found for Texas 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 | 6 |
|---|---|
| Types of help available | Free cars, Repair help, Car loans, Low-cost cars, Gas & rides |
| State TANF program | TANF / Choices (HHSC & TWC) |
| Low-income car insurance | No state program; assigned-risk plan available |
| Vehicle replacement grant | None found in our research |
Nonprofit car programs in Texas
OnRamp
Gifted cars plus a year of maintenance for people nominated by partner advocates.
OnRamp DFW
Gifted cars and maintenance support in North Texas.
On the Road Lending
Fair-rate car loans and coaching through about 60 partner nonprofits.
Metro Auto Ministry
Free repairs and no-interest car loans for low-income people.
Autocare Haven
Free essential repairs for income-qualified drivers.
City of San Antonio Dept. of Community Initiatives
City car assistance program.
Government car assistance in Texas
Choices supportive services (TWC)
TANF participants may get transportation help through local workforce boards.
Car repair help in Texas
Fixing the car you already have is often the fastest way to keep working. These Texas programs can help with car repairs:
- OnRamp (College Station / Brazos Valley)
- Metro Auto Ministry (North Texas)
- Autocare Haven (North Texas)
- Choices supportive services (TWC) — TANF participants may get transportation help through local workforce boards.
You can also ask Community Action Agencies, churches and charities in Texas for one-time repair help. See charities that help with car repairs and emergency car repair assistance.
Low-income car insurance in Texas
Texas 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 Texas
- TANF / Choices (HHSC & TWC): ask your caseworker about “supportive services” or transportation assistance for work.
- 211 Texas: 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 Texas drivers.
How to apply for car help in Texas
- Gather your documents using our application checklist.
- Ask a caseworker, employer, church or counselor for a referral letter.
- Contact the Texas 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 Texas?
Yes. Texas 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 Texas have government help with cars?
Texas’s TANF program (TANF / Choices (HHSC & TWC)) can provide transportation supports such as car repairs or gas help for eligible families. Choices supportive services (TWC): TANF participants may get transportation help through local workforce boards.
How do I apply for a free car in Texas?
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 Texas
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 New Mexico
- Free car programs in Oklahoma
- Free car programs in Arkansas — including Community Resource Group
- Free car programs in Louisiana — including Ways to Work