High-Occupancy Vehicle stickers may not be commonplace in some states, but they're an incentive for drivers in California to own vehicles with low to zero emissions. There are some qualifications that the car and driver must meet and the only way to apply is by mail. The time frame is about 30 days for turnaround, but the DMV processes the applications as quickly as possible.
Many people may not have heard of a HOV, or High Occupancy Vehicle, sticker but states like California issue these in an effort to promote low emissions. Owners of qualifying vehicles were issued HOV stickers starting in 1999, which allowed them to use the HOV or carpool lanes as a benefit. The Clean Air Vehicle Decal program is still in use today. One question that this guide hopes to answer is, how do you apply for this program? Read on to learn more.
In order to qualify for this program, you must first have a clean vehicle. Cars that are battery-electric, hybrid-electric or hydrogen-fueled are considered low-emissions and clean. The Chevy Bolt, Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid and Toyota Prius Prime are all qualifying vehicles. You can find a list of all eligible vehicles on the California Air Resources Board website.
Eligible car owners must submit an original HOV application with the correct fee by mail to the California DMV, and in order for the application to be considered original, the vehicle must have never had an HOV sticker issued before. To begin, the California DMV suggests that you call the CARB toll-free number or visit its website to verify if your car would be eligible. If you have any questions, you can call the California Department of Motor Vehicles here.
Next, you will need to fill out the application for the Clean Air Vehicle Decal, also known as REG 1000, with the DMV. It's important to note that the address on the CAVD application form must be the same address on the vehicle's registration card. If the addresses differ you may need to update your address and request a new registration card. Since your CAVD application must be sent by mail, the DMV processes the applications in the order they are received which is about 30 days.
Please note that you must have qualifying income to have an HOV reissued, and some individuals who earn less than $150,000 are eligible for the Clean Air Vehicle Program and the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project. Another important note -- it may be tempting to drive in the HOV lane before you receive the decal and ID card, but the DMV advises against it as it could cost you your privileges.
If your car is used and your household earns $72,080 or less, then you may qualify for the Income-Based CAVD Decal Program. First, visit the California DMV and the CARB websites or call to get more information. If you want to apply, you follow the same steps as the CAVD application, but you also need to fill out the Income-Based CAV form, which is form REG 1000 IB.
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