Ohio Car Purchasing Program

In 2022, the state of Ohio facilitated a time-limited program whereby they helped ETV recipients buy their first car. The funding was to help those who did not own a car and relied on public transportation or friends to get to school and work. It was intended to help students navigate their responsibilities and achieve their personal, academic, and career goals.

• Eligible students were Ohio ETV recipients currently enrolled in a postsecondary program
• Funding was limited; financial assistance was offered on a first-come, first-served basis
• The program was time-limited and assisted students with purchasing their first car between February 1 – September 30, 2022 (they ran out of funding prior to Sept. 30, due to high interest)
• The funding was able to be used to help with the purchase of a car, and also for routine maintenance and ongoing insurance costs

In the words of one foster care alumni, “This is incredible. As a person whose first car had no air conditioning, windows that didn’t close, and a heating system made of blankets, because I needed be able to drive in order to earn my education degree, helping younger brothers and sisters be able to access this resource makes my heart happy.”

Driver’s Education and License

The OHIO YAB is currently working with allies to reduce barriers so that more current and former foster youth can complete driver’s education and obtain a driver’s license.

In the meantime, Ohioans who are 17 years and older can now receive an ID card at no cost. For Ohioans who are 16 years and younger, an ID card will cost $10.00 for a 4-year and $19.00 for an 8-year. Here are some additional details.