Starting Monday, drivers using the carpool lanes solo with Clean Air Vehicle decals will face fines as the 60-day grace period ends. The federal government has discontinued the California Clean Air Vehicle Decal Program, which previously allowed low and zero-emission vehicles to use carpool lanes without passengers.
Now, solo drivers with these decals caught in carpool lanes can be fined starting at $490. To legally use carpool lanes on the Bay Bridge, vehicles must have at least three occupants.
With the program ending, EV and low-emission vehicle drivers will lose several perks, including toll discounts and special lane access. Commuters should plan accordingly and consider carpooling to save time and avoid penalties.
