Keys to Independence is a program funded by MODOT to help youth in out-of-home care obtain their permit and driver’s license by removing the financial barriers of driving costs and fees.

In 2024, the Keys to Independence program transitioned to FLITE Center (Fort Lauderdale Independence, Training & Education). This is a non-profit organization with the goals that no youth travels the road to adulthood alone.

FLITE helps guide those aging out of foster care and other vulnerable youth for successful transition to independence through housing, education, employment, health and wellness, and system of coordination of care.

Keys to Independence, with FLITE, will support the state of Missouri’s mission and the Show-Me Zero initiative by recognizing that a young adult cannot be fully independent without a driver’s license and to encourage behind the wheel lessons to make Missouri youth safe drivers.

What K2I covers:

• Permits fees
• Driver’s license fee
• Car for the road exam

If you have any question about our program, our FAQ’s page has answers to are most common questions asked.