Cars for Schools

The Cars for Schools program provides retired vehicles to public high schools, community colleges, and regional occupation programs across California. The program supports hands-on training opportunities for students preparing for automotive careers.

How the program works

The Cars for School program provides up to 420 retired vehicles to schools each year. The vehicles are retired through BAR’s Consumer Assistance Program (CAP).
Schools can request certain vehicle makes, models, or model years. They can also request ranges of model years or other specific features.
Schools receive vehicles at no charge. They are responsible for the cost of transporting vehicles from the dismantler to the school and back. Limited transportation assistance may be available.
Schools must sign a memorandum of understanding with BAR. This agreement includes specific terms for participation such as:
- Not operating the vehicles on public roads
- Returning the vehicles back to the dismantler by a specified date

Benefits for schools

Access to retired vehicles for automotive repair training.
Enhances vocational and practical learning opportunities for students.
Provides students with hands-on experience in a practical training environment.
Helps prepare students for careers in the automotive industry.
Supports efforts to improve California's air quality by repurposing retired vehicles.

How to participate

If your school is interested in participating, contact the Cars for Schools Coordinator. The coordinator can provide information about program requirements, available vehicles, and next steps.

Contact

Cars for Schools Coordinator
carsforschools@dca.ca.gov

Transportation assistance

Schools that are unable to arrange vehicle transport may receive assistance.
Assistance is limited and only available in certain areas of the state.
For more details, please contact carsforschools@dca.ca.gov.