CALIFORNIA – The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) announced that the federal government will no longer allow states to issue Clean Air Vehicle (CAV) decals.
Starting October 1, vehicles displaying a CAV decal will no longer be allowed to use carpool or High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes with a single occupant or receive reduced toll rates.
All vehicles must follow posted occupancy requirements. Violators may receive citations.
The DMV stopped accepting applications for CAV decals on August 29.
CA official urges government to keep program
While CAV decals were valid for up to four years, the federal government’s decision not to extend the program makes all decals invalid as of October 1, regardless of issue date.
The program is ending due to a federal “sunset provision” under Section 166 of Title 23 of the U.S. Code, which required Congress to renew authorization for single-occupant, low-emission vehicles to use HOV lanes.
DMV director Steve Gordon said Californians are committed to lowering their carbon footprint and that these decals helped drivers be better stewards of highways and the environment.
“It’s a lose-lose, and we urge the federal government to retain this program,” Gordon said.
Caltrans will post road signage
DMV offices and the agency’s website are posting notices about the end of the federal program. Customers with emails on file will be notified directly, and social media reminders will also be shared.
Caltrans will post the following message on electronic road signage:
CLEAN AIR DECALS
NOT VALID
STARTING OCT 1
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