Looking for a free car in Virginia, a low-cost car, or help paying for car repairs? This page brings together the car assistance programs we found for Virginia 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 |
| State TANF program | VIEW (DSS) |
| Low-income car insurance | No state program; assigned-risk plan available |
| Vehicle replacement grant | None found in our research |
Nonprofit car programs in Virginia
Vehicles for Change
Low-cost repaired donated cars with financing, by partner-agency referral.
Ways to Work
Low-interest car loans for working families.
Capital Area Partnership Uplifting People (CAPUP)
Community action car program.
ECDC Enterprise Development Group
Small loans that can help with car purchases.
Government car assistance in Virginia
TANF-linked car loans
Car loans of up to $4,000 have been offered through DSS partnerships; ask your local DSS.
Car repair help in Virginia
Fixing the car you already have is often the fastest way to keep working. You can also ask Community Action Agencies, churches and charities in Virginia for one-time repair help. See charities that help with car repairs and emergency car repair assistance.
Low-income car insurance in Virginia
Virginia 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 Virginia
- VIEW (DSS): ask your caseworker about “supportive services” or transportation assistance for work.
- 211 Virginia: 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 Virginia drivers.
How to apply for car help in Virginia
- Gather your documents using our application checklist.
- Ask a caseworker, employer, church or counselor for a referral letter.
- Contact the Virginia 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 Virginia?
Free car giveaways are limited in Virginia, but you can find low-cost cars, loans or repair help from local nonprofits and government help through VIEW (DSS). You can also apply with Free Car Help.
Does Virginia have government help with cars?
Virginia’s TANF program (VIEW (DSS)) can provide transportation supports such as car repairs or gas help for eligible families. TANF-linked car loans: Car loans of up to $4,000 have been offered through DSS partnerships; ask your local DSS.
How do I apply for a free car in Virginia?
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 Virginia
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 Maryland — including Vehicles for Change and Second Chances Garage
- Free car programs in District of Columbia — including Ways to Work – Family Matters of Greater Washington and Vehicles for Change
- Free car programs in West Virginia — including Good News Mountaineer Garage
- Free car programs in Kentucky — including Goodwill Cars to Work and Goodwill Last Mile 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 North Carolina — including Wheels4Hope and Working Wheels