How to Donate a Car in Washington, DC
The Car Talk Vehicle Donation Program returns 80% of the gross revenue generated through a donation directly to the Washington, DC public radio station of your choice. Your Washington, DC car donation will support the stations that deliver your daily dose of news, music, and entertainment content. Donating a car in Washington, DC is easy, here’s how:
- Have your vehicle title and ready.
- Click the link to the Car Talk Vehicle Donation Program, call us at 1-877-215-0227, or pick your local Washington, DC Public Radio Station from the list below.
- Answer questions about your car and yourself.
- Choose a time and date to have your vehicle picked up.
That’s it!
Is there any paperwork I need to fill out to complete my car donation?
In order to complete your Washington, D.C. car donation, you’ll have to transfer your vehicle title. Follow these steps to sign over your car title:
- SIGN your name on the back of the title where it’s marked “SIGNATURE OF SELLER.”
- Be sure your name is signed EXACTLY as it appears printed on the front of the title.
If you can’t find your vehicle title, you can obtain a duplicate from the Washington DC DMV. Visit the Washington, DC website to learn more.
What will happen when my vehicle is picked up?
The day of your scheduled vehicle pickup, you’ll need to provide the driver with the completed title, along with the keys. After the vehicle sells, you'll receive a vehicle donation receipt for tax purposes.
Can I donate my car if it won’t pass Washington, DC emissions testing?
Yes! Every pleasure vehicle from 2005 or newer has to pass an emissions test in Washington, DC every two years. Even if your car won’t pass the test, we can help you get rid of it. A vehicle donation is a great way to move that car along and help support your local public radio station.
What is the tax write off for donating a car in DC?
If you itemize your taxes, you can deduct the sale price of your car if it sells for over $500. If the car sells for less than $500, you can deduct the fair market value of the vehicle up to $499. To determine the fair market value, use a website like Kelly Blue Book. Once the car is sold, you’ll receive a sales receipt for tax purposes.
Which public radio stations in Washington, DC does the Car Talk Vehicle Donation Program support?
Donations through the Car Talk Vehicle Donation Program will provide funds to the Washington, DC Public Radio station of your choice. WAMU - 88.5 FM is the D.C. metro area’s source of NPR news and information. Your WAMU car donation will support favorite programs such as 1A, The Big Broadcast, and Diane Rehm: On My Mind.
