Apply – DriveForce

Application

Shifting Gears towards a Brighter Future

Eligibility Criteria

GENERAL ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Residency:

Must be a resident of Illinois, with priority given to individuals from underserved or low-income communities within the state.

Financial Need:

Applicants must demonstrate financial need. This can b assessed through income verification, such as providing pay stubs, tax returns, or proof of participation in government assistance programs (e.g., SNAP, Medicaid).
Preference may be given to those living at or below the federal poverty line or meeting state-defined low-income thresholds.

Target Group Membership:

Low-Income High School Students:
- Must be enrolled in a public or charter high school in Illinois.
- Must provide documentation of financial need, such as participation in the free or reduced-price school lunch program.
- May require a letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, or school administrator.
Undocumented Immigrants:
- Must provide proof of residence in Illinois (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement) but do not need to provide proof of citizenship.
- May need to provide documentation or references from community organizations or legal aid services to confirm their undocumented status and need for assistance.
- Must express intent to obtain a Temporary Visitor’s Driver’s License (TVDL) or equivalent legal driving documentation.
Former Drug Dependents:
- Must provide proof of participation in or completion of a substance recovery program or referral from a rehabilitation center, social worker, or legal aid organization.
- Must demonstrate commitment to reintegration into society and show intent to pursue employment or self-sufficiency.

Age Requirements:

Must be at least 16 years old to be eligible for a Driver Education grant.
No maximum age limit, but priority may be given to younger applicants who are at a key stage or their