Yes, a homeless person can get a car, but the process is significantly more challenging than for someone with a stable address and income. The primary obstacles are proving residency, securing financing or insurance, and covering ongoing costs like fuel, maintenance, and registration. However, a car can be a critical tool for escaping homelessness by providing shelter, transportation to jobs, and storage for belongings.
The biggest immediate hurdle is the address requirement for a driver's license, registration, and insurance. Some states offer alternatives, such as using the address of a shelter, a social service agency, or even a P.O. Box where permitted. Non-profit organizations like Vehicles for Change or local charities sometimes donate refurbished cars to qualified low-income individuals, including those experiencing housing instability.
Owning a car comes with unavoidable recurring expenses. Beyond the initial purchase, you must budget for insurance premiums, which are legally mandatory. Even basic liability coverage costs money. Then there's fuel, routine maintenance (oil changes, tire rotations), and annual registration fees. A breakdown without funds for repairs can leave you worse off.
For many, a more realistic first step might be securing a driver's license or state ID. This is a foundational document that can help with job applications and accessing services. The car itself should be seen as a tool for stability, not a final solution. The goal is to use the mobility it provides to secure employment and, ultimately, permanent housing. It's a difficult path, but for some, it's a viable one.
