Yosemite Valley CA | Goodwill Car Donations — Photo by Tim Hart under Unsplash License

California Car Donations: Donate Your Car To Charity In California

Letting go of an old or unused vehicle has never been easier or more meaningful. With Goodwill Car Donations, you can support local job training and community programs simply by handing over a car you no longer need. We take care of everything for you, from free vehicle pickup to ensuring you receive a tax-deductible receipt. Whether your car runs or not, your donation transforms into life-changing support for those in need. Discover how your contribution in California can make a real difference while giving you peace of mind.

If you live in California, you know how great the weather, coastline, and outdoor spaces are. Here’s something else to enjoy. With Goodwill Car Donations, it’s now simple to get rid of an old car. You can even donate a car without a title in California when you go through our program.

Whether it’s a car, truck, boat, motorcycle, RV, or jet ski, your unwanted or broken vehicle can help people in California. If you live by the coast or near the redwoods, contact us to set up a free pickup for your California vehicle donation.

How to Donate a Car to Charity in California

Call us at 866-233-8586 or fill out our quick online form. We’ll set a time to pick up your car, truck, camper, or any other vehicle. After we pick it up, we’ll send your tax receipt by mail within a few days. That’s all you need to do.

Ready to donate your car in California? You can help people in need while also receiving a great tax deduction for your gift.

How the California Car Donation Process Works

Goodwill Car Donations is the best place to donate a car for a tax credit in California. Our process is simple and quick. Just let us know you’re ready to donate your vehicle in California, and we’ll take care of everything.

We accept almost any kind of vehicle with four wheels and an engine. We auction or salvage them to support programs that help people in your California community.

Why Donate To Goodwill Car Donations

If you’re looking to donate your car in California, GoodwillCarDonation.org is your best choice.

We keep the donation process easy while making sure your gift helps people in need. Let go of the stress of keeping a car you no longer want or use. We’ll pick it up, send your tax receipt and make sure your donation supports a good cause.

The money from your donation helps fund job training, life skills, and work programs for people across California who need support.

When you donate a car in California, you help nonprofits like Goodwill use it to fund important services. Whether you’re in the Bay Area, the central region, along the coast, in the inland deserts region, north central, the northern region or the southern region, your gift can make a real difference. Contact us or visit our FAQ to learn more about car donations in California.

How do I estimate my car’s value for tax purposes?

To estimate your car’s value for tax deduction purposes, you can start by checking reputable vehicle valuation guides like Kelley Blue Book (kbb.com), Edmunds or the NADA Guides. These tools provide a fair market value based on your car’s make, model, year, mileage and condition. However, the actual deduction you’ll be able to claim depends on how the vehicle is used by the charity. If the organization sells your car, you can typically deduct the sale price, which you’ll receive in a written acknowledgment. If the charity uses the car in its programs or gives it to someone in need, you may be eligible to deduct the full fair market value. Always consult a tax professional or IRS Publication 4303 for specific guidance.

What if I lost my car title – can I still donate?

Yes, you can often still donate a car without the title, though the process varies by state. Many charities, including Goodwill Car Donations, can assist you in obtaining a duplicate title or guide you through your state’s title replacement procedure. Be sure to mention the missing title when you first contact the donation program, so they can help streamline the process and ensure compliance with local regulations.

Looking for more information about donating in a particular area of California? Click on one of the cities closest to you from the list below.

Learn more about our California Goodwill partners from the list below.

Donate Your Vehicle to Goodwill

Muscle Car parked | Goodwill Car Donations — Photo by Shukhrat Umarov under Pexels License

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3…

We operate in all 50 states

For more information regarding the car donation process in your area, click on your state below!

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Click The Button Below Or Call (866) 233-8586

Last Updated: June 23rd, 2025