West Side Drives Scholarship: Get Free Driving Lessons AND Break into the Film and TV Industry

The West Side Drives Scholarship offers free driving lessons to low-income residents of Manhattan’s west side. The scholarship covers the cost of a 5-hour Pre-Licensing Course, 15 hours of driving lessons, and a road test.

Important Dates:

• Application Deadline: December 31st, 2025
• Those who receive the scholarship will also be considered for the “Made in NY” PA Training Program’s January 2026 training cycle. This cycle will begin on January 12, 2026. (The “Made in NY” PA Training Program is a free job-training program that prepares low-income New Yorkers to work entry-level jobs on film and television productions.)

How to Apply:

To apply for the West Side Drives Scholarship, visit: Application for the West Side Drives Scholarship

Eligibility: Requirements:

• Resident of the west side of Manhattan (residents of NYCHA’s Fulton, Elliott-Chelsea, Harborview Terrace and Amsterdam Houses are encouraged to apply!)
• Be underemployed, unemployed, or low-income
• Must have a Learner’s Permit
• Legally eligible to work in the U.S
• Available for 15 hours of driving instruction

Questions: