The Clean Air Vehicle (CAV) Decal Program has ENDED. Vehicles must meet the posted occupancy requirements for traveling in a carpool (HOV) lane, pay required tolls, or risk receiving a citation (Section 166 of Title 23).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Clean Air Vehicle Decal (CAVD) program end?
The federal government ended the CAVD program at midnight on September 30, 2025, pursuant to Section 166 of Title 23 of the United States Code. While the federal government gave the DMV the authority to create the CAVD program, the state had to follow federal regulations that expired.
Why did the CAVD program end when CA law was changed to extend the program to January 2027?
California changed the law in hopes that the federal government would extend the CAVD program. However, that federal authority was not extended, so the program ended at midnight on September 30, 2025.
Can I still drive in the carpool (HOV) lane with a single occupant?
No. Starting October 1, 2025, drivers must obey the posted vehicle occupancy requirement to travel in the carpool (HOV) lane or risk receiving a citation and fine.
Will I continue to receive reduced toll rates once the CAVD program ended?
No. Starting October 1, 2025, full toll rates applied, and drivers were advised to contact their local toll authority for fee amounts. A list of toll roads and contact information is available on the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) website at https://dot.ca.gov/programs/traffic-operations/express-lanes.
When did the DMV stop accepting new CAV decal applications and applications for replacement CAV decals?
The DMV stopped accepting new and replacement CAV decal applications on August 29, 2025, at 5:00 PM.
Why did DMV stop accepting applications for new and replacement CAV decals one month before the program ended?
The Department stopped accepting applications to prevent customers from receiving CAV decals that would expire within days of receipt.
Was my application processed if I submitted a CAVD application prior to August 29, 2025?
If a completed CAVD application and payment were received and reviewed before August 29, 2025, the application was processed and decals mailed. However, those decals only remained valid until October 1, 2025.
The DMV returned my CAVD application because it was incomplete prior to August 29, 2025. Was my application processed?
The application was only processed if the completed application and payment were received prior to August 29, 2025. Otherwise, the application and payment were returned to you.
Do I have to remove the decal from my vehicle on October 1, 2025?
No, however the decal is not valid for lawful travel in the HOV lane.
Were customers issued a refund for their clean air decals if they paid the $27 fee and were unable to use it for a full 4 years?
No.
Which California agencies were involved in administering the CAVD program?
The California Air Resources Board determined which vehicles qualified for the program based on emissions requirements. The DMV was responsible for issuing the decals. Caltrans authorized the use of carpool (HOV) lanes. CHP oversaw enforcement. Toll authorities oversaw reduced rates for qualified Clean Air Vehicles.