A grace period is ending Monday morning for those who drive electric vehicle as California’s carpool decal program is now officially over.
California’s Clean Air Vehicle Decal program, which allowed solo EV drivers to get into carpool lanes in California, officially ended on Sept. 30.
The tax credit program, officially called the New Clean Vehicle Credit, was set to expire on Sept. 30, no longer providing a tax credit of up to $7,500 to those who purchase new EVs and up to $4,000 to the buyers of used electric or plug-in cars.
Since Oct. 1, even those drivers who had the “clean air vehicle” decal in the front or back bumper of their car, had to obey the rules of the HOV lanes.
This meant they were only allowed to use carpool lanes when the car was occupied by two or more people to avoid a citation and fine.
Up until now, drivers were only given warnings. But starting today, drivers spotted in the HOV lane by themselves by the California Highway Patrol will be subject to a fine of up to $500.
The expiration of the state and federal clean air vehicle program also ends other perks like free parking meters in cities like Santa Monica
Source: NBC Los Angeles
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