For many California drivers of plug-in hybrid and electric vehicle, 2018 will be the last year the HOV lane is available to them. Both white and green decals will no longer grant single passenger vehicles access to the carpool lane in California.
An unlimited number of new decals will be issued in their place. Drivers of qualifying vehicles who received their white or green decal in 2017 or 2018 may apply for a new decal.
| Qualifying Vehicles | Valid through | |
 |
100% Battery electric, hydrogen fuel cell, compressed natural gas vehicles, and plug-in hybrids. | 3 years from year of issue |
 |
100% Battery electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and compressed natural gas vehicles. Owners of qualifying vehicles purchased after January 1, 2017, may apply for a red decal. | January 1, 2019 |
 |
Plug-in hybrids. Owners of qualifying vehicles purchased after January 1, 2017, may apply for a red decal. | January 1, 2019 |
 |
Hybrids | No longer valid (as of July 1,2011) |
Additionally, there are income eligibility requirements on the new decals. Individuals or families that do not meet the income eligibility requirements are only eligible for the decal and not the state rebate when they buy or lease a new battery or plug-in hybrid. Individuals and families that do not meet the eligibility requirements may choose between a decal or a rebate when they buy or lease a new fuel cell vehicle. These requirements apply to:
- Single filers with annual income above $150,000
- Head of household filers with annual income above $204,000
- Joint filers with annual income above $300,000
Whether you’re looking for a plug-in hybrid or any other new car, Cartelligent can help you get a great deal on exactly what you want. Call our team of car-buying experts at 888-427-4270 or get started today.