Auto & EVCalculators

California EV Incentives & Rebates — Complete 2026 Guide

California offers the strongest EV incentive program in the country through a combination of state rebates, utility rebates, and HOV lane access. Income-qualified buyers can stack multiple programs for substantial savings.

Purchase incentive
Clean Cars 4 All / Regional Clean Vehicle Programs
California Air Resources Board programs including Clean Cars 4 All (vehicle replacement for income-qualified residents in priority populations) and regional Clean Vehicle Rebate programs. Individual program amounts and availability change frequently — verify at the official source before purchase.
Official program page
HOV lane access
limited
Clean Air Vehicle decals available for qualifying EVs and PHEVs, allowing solo HOV lane access. Program has been extended multiple times; verify current status and availability at DMV.
Charger incentive
Multiple utility-specific rebates and the Electric Vehicle Charging Station Financing Program for residential and commercial installations. Amounts vary by utility territory.
Program details
Official state source
DOE AFDC — California

Top utility rebates

Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E)
Pre-owned EV rebate and Empower EV home charger installation rebate for income-qualified customers.
Up to $2,000
Program page
Southern California Edison (SCE)
Pre-Owned EV Rebate Program and commercial/residential charger rebates.
Up to $4,000
Program page
San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E)
Power Your Drive for Residents home charger installation rebate program.
Program page

Federal programs that still apply in California

Frequently asked questions

California offers a sales tax exemption on qualifying EVs through the Clean Vehicle Rebate Program (CVRP), plus utility rebates from PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E for home EV charger installation. The federal §30C home charger credit (up to $1,000) also applies to eligible California addresses and expires June 30, 2026. Federal OBBBA loan interest deduction (up to $10,000/yr) applies to qualifying new vehicle purchases.

State incentive programs change frequently. Verify amounts, eligibility, and funding status at the official program page linked above before making a purchase.

Sources: DOE AFDC — State Laws