Is 70 Cents a Mile Enough? Let's Do the Math.
In 2025, the IRS increased the amount for mileage reimbursements to $0.70 per mile. So let's talk numbers about how that works.
Some of our volunteer drivers gave more than 15,000 miles of their time last year—and we’re so grateful. That’s over 1,000 miles a month! Others drive far less, depending on their schedule.
Some may wonder: Is it worth it? Does the mileage reimbursement make a difference?
Let’s take a look—using just 100 miles as an example.
Driving 100 miles at 70 cents a mile = $70
Now let’s break down the typical costs, using very conservative assumptions and generous estimates:
· Fuel: If your vehicle gets 35 miles per gallon, that’s about 2.85 gallons for 100 miles. At $3.20/gallon, fuel would cost about $9.12.
· Oil Change: Using a $60 oil change every 3,000 miles, you’d set aside $2 per 100 miles.
· Tires: If tires cost $200 each and last 30,000 miles, that’s about $2.70 per 100 miles.
That adds up to $13.82 in gas, oil, and tire costs.
And that’s being conservative—many oil changes and tires last well beyond the miles used in this example.
Using those estimates, that leaves $56.18, which can help with other car expenses—like car insurance.
Since car insurance has to be paid whether your car leaves the driveway or not, putting reimbursement money toward that bill can free up money in your budget for other things.
Drivers only need to have minimum liability coverage car insurance as required by the state. New Growth Transit provides necessary insurance coverage for trips conducted as a volunteer driver. And because they are driving their own car, they don't need a special drivers license.
Why Be a Volunteer Driver?
“You won’t get rich doing this, but I love it!”—Helen Crowder, volunteer driver from Henry County
That’s what we often hear from our drivers. The money helps—but the real reward is the purpose. Many drivers start because of the mileage reimbursement but stay because helping others is so fulfilling.
Drivers enjoy getting out, meeting people, and giving back. It's a way for them to connect with their community and give back on their schedule. And they often find new friends because of the connections.
“It’s like work without working.”—Jeremi, a retired woman on Social Security and volunteer driver from Cedar County
We work hard to make it as easy as we can for volunteers to simply enjoy their time as a driver. Our volunteer driver trainer provides one-on-one training for each new driver so they feel confident in what they need to know to safely help riders get where they need to go.
And, because our volunteer drivers are VOLUNTEERS, they choose when they are available and where they're willing to drive.
Whether you want to drive 100 miles a month—or 1,000, or even 10,000—there’s a place for you here.
Together, we’re making a difference in our communities—one mile at a time!
Learn more or apply to be drive a driver, download an application online or give us a call.
417-283-7991