Kelsey’s Law Distracted Driving Awareness Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Michigan Auto Law
Michigan Auto Law is pleased to announce the 2026 Kelsey's Law Distracted Driving Awareness Scholarship. This year we will select four winners and award a total of $5,000 to students who create powerful messages that encourage safer driving — especially urging young drivers to stop texting while driving.
What we’re looking for
- Submissions should be either a YouTube video or a graphic aimed at teens, with the goal of changing driving habits and reducing distractions.
- Video entries must contain original footage you filmed yourself (no stock footage).
Judging criteria
Submissions will be evaluated on:
- Persuasiveness, particularly in convincing teen drivers to stop texting while driving.
- Ability to capture and hold the attention of teen drivers, peers, and drivers of all ages.
- Clarity and simplicity of the message.
- Demonstration of the applicant’s creativity and originality.
- A unique personal perspective.
Scholarship awards (4 total winners; $5,000 combined)
- Overall Best Submission: $2,000 (1 winner)
- Best Video Submission: $1,500 (1 winner)
- Most Impactful Submission: $1,000 (1 winner)
- Best Graphic Submission: $500 (1 winner)
*Students may submit only one type of entry.
How awards are paid
Scholarship funds must be used for tuition at any accredited university, college, or technical school in the United States. Payments will be sent directly to the recipient’s school within one year of the scholarship deadline.
Who is eligible
- Current Michigan high school juniors and seniors (Class of 2026 and 2027), enrolled in any public or private Michigan high school. Finalists will need to verify enrollment with a student ID or transcript.
- Must be a Michigan resident and hold a valid Michigan driver’s license.
- If you are under 18 on April 15, 2026, a parent or guardian will need to sign a consent form if you become a finalist.
Important dates
- Online application deadline: March 1, 2026.
- Winners will be notified by March 1, 2026.
- Winners will be publicly announced in April 2026 to coincide with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
How to apply
Complete the online submission form below (scroll down on the page to access it). All applicants must read and agree to the Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Terms of Use by checking the confirmation box on the submission form. For full details, review each document here:
- Terms & Conditions
- Privacy Policy
- Terms of Use
If you have questions about the scholarship or the application process, contact Michigan Auto Law for assistance.