Program guide

NABC Recycled Rides: Eligibility, Application & Costs

Through the National Auto Body Council, insurers donate vehicles and collision repair shops volunteer to restore them. The cars are then presented to people nominated by local charities.

Last verified: · By the Free Car Foundation Editorial Team

Collision repair technician presenting a restored purple car to a family
Independent guide: this page explains NABC Recycled Rides for your information. It is not the NABC Recycled Rides application, and Free Car Foundation is not affiliated with NABC Recycled Rides.

Apply for a free car with Free Car Foundation

Waiting on NABC Recycled Rides? Apply to our program too — there is no limit on how many programs you apply to. Our application is free, takes about 5 minutes and never asks for your Social Security number or bank details.

Who it helpsFamilies and individuals nominated by a local nonprofit — often veterans, single parents and people overcoming hardship.
Service areaNationwide, through participating collision repair shops
Cost to applyFree — never pay to apply

Who qualifies for NABC Recycled Rides?

  • You cannot apply directly
  • A local nonprofit or charity must nominate you
  • Nominees typically have a clear need for transportation

How to apply

  1. Talk to a nonprofit you already work with (shelter, veterans group, church, family services)
  2. Ask whether they partner with a local Recycled Rides repair shop
  3. The nonprofit submits the nomination

To apply to NABC Recycled Rides itself, use its official website: www.nabc.com.

What does it really cost?

Vehicles are typically gifted. Recipients may still need to cover insurance and registration. Read our guide to the real cost of a donated car so you can budget before you are selected.

How long is the wait?

Depends on local repair-shop events; many presentations happen around the holidays. While you wait, look at car repair assistance for a car you already have, or car grants and low-interest loans.

Is NABC Recycled Rides legit?

Recycled Rides is a real industry program. Anyone asking you to pay to be "nominated" is running a scam. See our free car scam alerts for the warning signs.

Where NABC Recycled Rides operates

Nationwide — see our state guides for local options.

Who this program is best for

Veterans · Single moms · Low-income families

Similar programs to apply to

1-800-Charity Cars (Free Charity Cars)

All 50 states

Working poor families, domestic violence survivors, veterans and military families, people with medical needs, disaster victims and transitional shelter residents.

Vehicles for Change

Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C. area and Detroit, Michigan

Low-income working families referred by a partner agency, who need a car to keep or get a job.

Good News Garage

Vermont and parts of New England

Low-income working adults who need reliable transportation to get to work, often through state welfare-to-work programs.

Cars 4 Heroes

Nationwide

Veterans, active-duty military members, first responders and their families — and in some cases civilians in need.

Frequently asked questions

Is NABC Recycled Rides really free?
Vehicles are typically gifted. Recipients may still need to cover insurance and registration.
How do I apply to NABC Recycled Rides?
Talk to a nonprofit you already work with (shelter, veterans group, church, family services). Ask whether they partner with a local Recycled Rides repair shop. The nonprofit submits the nomination.
Is NABC Recycled Rides a scam?
Recycled Rides is a real industry program. Anyone asking you to pay to be "nominated" is running a scam.

Need a car to get to work?

Apply to the Free Car Foundation program today. It is free, takes about 5 minutes and never asks for your SSN or bank details.