Help for seniors who drive
- Car repair assistance from community action agencies and charities.
- Reduced registration fees in some states.
- Insurance savings, including mature-driver course discounts.
- Low-cost reliable used cars through nonprofit programs.
When driving is no longer the best option
Your Area Agency on Aging can connect you with volunteer driver programs and senior shuttles. Medicaid members can schedule free rides to medical appointments.
Staying safe behind the wheel
Regular vision and hearing checks, a review of medications that cause drowsiness, and a refresher course can help older adults drive safely longer. Many insurers give a discount for completing a mature-driver course.
Low-cost cars for seniors on a fixed income
Choose a reliable, fuel-efficient car with easy entry, good visibility and simple controls. Low-cost car programs serve seniors who meet income limits, and nonprofit garages can inspect a used car before you buy. Read cars for low-income seniors for more.
Rides when you cannot drive
Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to find senior transportation, volunteer drivers and ride vouchers in your area.
Help for grandparents raising grandchildren
Many older adults are raising grandchildren and need a reliable car for school, activities and medical visits. Kinship caregivers may qualify for TANF “child-only” support and local kinship programs that help with transportation. Ask your Area Agency on Aging or local kinship navigator.
Frequently asked questions
Are there car programs for seniors?
Few programs are only for seniors, but most car and repair programs serve older adults who meet income guidelines.
Do seniors get free car registration?
It depends on the state. Some states offer reduced fees for seniors or disabled veterans; check your DMV.
Is there a government car program for seniors?
There is no federal car program for seniors, but Area Agencies on Aging fund senior transportation and ride vouchers.