Youth in foster care face many barriers to obtaining a driver’s license, which is important for normalcy and a successful transition to adulthood. To address the barriers, the 2024 Appropriations Act provides $310,000 annually to VDSS to implement a statewide driver’s license program known as the “Drive to Thrive" Program, a statewide initiative supporting youth in obtaining a driver’s license and car insurance. During state fiscal year (SFY) 2025, VDSS focused on the infrastructure and hired a contract worker to administer the Program. The Program served a total of 170 youths. The Program’s dedicated funding source enabled consistent and equitable service delivery.

During SFY 2026, VDSS initiated the Request for Proposals to procure a qualified vendor to administer the driver’s licensing program. VDSS is recommending this approach to improve outreach to raise awareness, develop education and training materials, and ensure consistent implementation.