California’s long-standing “clean-air” perk for electric and low-emission vehicles has officially come to an end. As of December 1, the grace period for the California Clean Air Vehicle Decal Program has expired — meaning drivers with EVs or qualifying clean-air vehicles can no longer use high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes solo, and may now face fines of up to $500.

The program, which had allowed eligible clean-air vehicles to access carpool lanes regardless of how many people were in the car, officially expired on September 30, 2025.

In addition to losing carpool-lane privileges, drivers will no longer be eligible for other incentives tied to the program. That includes the federal New Clean Vehicle Credit — which offered tax savings of up to $7,500 for new EV purchases (and up to $4,000 for used plug-in vehicles) — as well as various local perks, such as free or reduced parking in select cities.

Over its 25-year history, the California decal program issued more than 1.2 million decals, making it one of the nation’s earliest and most widespread efforts to reward clean-vehicle owners.

Officials say the decision marks the end of a long-standing incentive, but state agencies remain committed to encouraging zero-emission vehicle adoption even without the lane privileges.