Electric Car Incentives In California For 2026
INCLUDING the Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP), Clean Cars 4 All (CC4A), EV charging incentives, and other California EV incentives
For years, the Clean Vehicle Rebate Program (CVRP) helped Californians make the switch to electric vehicles (EVs) with substantial rebates. However, as of November 8, 2023, CVRP has stopped accepting new applications—leaving many wondering what EV incentives are still available.
The good news? Plenty of financial incentives remain for California drivers looking to go electric.
Important 2026 update: the federal EV purchase tax credits for new and used EVs ended for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025. California, local, and utility incentives (plus the federal charger credit—see below) are now the main savings opportunities.
EV Incentives Still Available In California
Even though CVRP has closed, you may still qualify for up to $14,000 in EV incentives through programs from either the The Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP) or Clean Cars 4 All (CC4A).
There are a number of other incentives available if you and your EV qualifies - from utility incentives, to home charger incentives, to helping buying a new or used EV. Read more below.
Stack Your EV Incentives for Maximum Savings
Many California EV incentives can be combined for even greater savings.
Check out our nonprofit’s guide below to explore all the rebates, tax credits, and local incentives available for Californians in 2026—and start saving on your EV today!
Haven’t Switched to An EV Yet?
You can also use our nonprofit's checklist for finding other state and local EV incentives and our free EV Cost Savings Calculator.
The California EV Rebate Overview
One of the biggest EV incentives in California was the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project. Since 2010, the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project helped get almost 600,000 clean vehicles on the road in California. All funding for CVRP has been reserved. Applications submitted on or after September 6, 2023, were placed on a standby list and new applications were not accepted after November 8, 2023. The standard rebate for most Californians for the purchase or lease of an electric vehicle was $2,000. And if your household income was less than or equal to 400 percent of the federal poverty level, the EV rebate increased up to $5,500 over the general rebate.
While the Clean Vehicle Rebate is no longer available, there are many other EV incentives in California. Read below for more info!
Looking to Save Money on an EV?
While the EV Rebate in California is not currently available, our nonprofit has collected some of the best resources on purchasing or leasing an EV and put them into an easy-to-use cheat sheet.
It's a must-read for people considering an EV in.
Simply enter your email to access the free cheat sheet and receive monthly news and inspiration from our nonprofit.
EVs Are More Affordable Than You Think - With Or Without Incentives
The incentives we cover below certainly can help, but EVs are already affordable - many EVs already cost less than equivalent gas cars over their lifetimes.
Driving an EV can lead to an average savings of $6,000 - $10,000 over its lifetime, or much more for drivers who use a lot of gasoline.
Check out our guide to the least expensive electric cars, our guide to finding EV lease deals and our guide to used EVs.
EVs Cost Less to Drive
Electricity is ⅓ to ½ the cost of gasoline per mile
No oil changes, fewer repairs, and lower maintenance costs.
Affordable EV Lease Deals
EV lease deals in California can be very affordable — many for $9 or $10/day.
Learn more in our guide to leasing an EV
Skip the Gas Station—Charge at Home or for Free
You can charge EVs at home overnight while you sleep and even find free EV charging stations near you.
No gas stations. No oil changes. Just smooth, low-cost driving.
Share this with family friends in California—more people should be driving EVs!
How To Find California Local EV Incentives
Drive Clean CA is the best starting point for California. Enter your ZIP code to see incentives you may be able to stack based on where you live (city, county, air district, utility, or community choice aggregator).
For a second opinion, you can also search incentives by ZIP code on PlugStar and compare results.
How To Use Drive Clean CA (Fastest Way)
- Set New or Used to match what you’re shopping for (and filter to Battery-Electric if you want EV-only results).
- Use Incentive Type filters like Vehicle, Charging, and Utility Rate to narrow results.
- If it applies, toggle income-based incentives — this is where some of the biggest “extra” rebates show up.
- Click More Information for each program to confirm eligibility, deadlines, and whether funds are still available.
Incentives Worth Checking For In California
- Used EV rebates (often $500–$2,000) from local utilities, municipal utilities, and CCAs. Your results included examples like LADWP, PG&E, SCE, SDG&E, and several city/municipal programs.
- Instant rebates for income-qualified shoppers in some areas (your results included an example offering up to $4,000 off at participating dealerships for eligible households).
- Home charging rebates that can cover the charger and parts of installation (and sometimes permits). Your results included charger rebates up to $1,500 in some territories.
- Panel upgrade / “make-ready” support for getting your home ready for Level 2 charging (your results included examples up to $4,000).
- Ongoing charging discounts through EV time-of-use rates, off-peak discounts, or smart-charging rewards programs (some listings advertised sign-up rewards and annual savings).
- Scrap/retire (“old car buyback”) payments in some air districts if you retire an older gas vehicle (your results included examples like $1,000 and $2,200).
Don’t Miss This Federal Charging Credit
Separate from EV purchase credits, there’s also a federal tax credit for qualifying home charging equipment (up to $1,000): Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Tax Credit.
Quick note: Tools like Drive Clean may show a big “Potential Incentives” number. Treat that as a starting point — actual eligibility and funding can vary program by program, so always confirm on the official program page.
Download the Ultimate EV Home Charging Cheat Sheet
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The EV Home Charging Cheat Sheet is brought to you completely free of charge by Coltura, an award-winning nonprofit.
California EV Incentives Tip: Local EV Rebates and Charging Discounts May Stack
Many Californians qualify for more than one incentive — especially when you combine local rebates with utility programs and home charging discounts. These offers can be ZIP-code and utility-territory specific, and some are first-come, first-served, so it’s worth checking before you buy.
- Used EV rebates: Commonly $500–$2,000 from utilities, municipal utilities, and CCAs (sometimes more if you qualify by income).
- Income-qualified instant rebates: In some territories, eligible households can get thousands off at the dealership.
- Home charging rebates: Programs may cover the charger, installation, and permits — and sometimes bigger “make-ready” work.
- Panel upgrade / pre-wiring help: Some programs offer rebates specifically to make Level 2 charging possible at home.
- Ongoing monthly savings: EV time-of-use rates, off-peak discounts, and smart-charging rewards can reduce your charging costs after you buy.
- Retire-your-old-car incentives: Some air districts offer payments to scrap an older vehicle if you’re upgrading anyway.
The fastest way to find what applies to you is to run a ZIP-code search (and then click through to the official program pages): Drive Clean CA Incentive Search.
One additional tip: Don't assume incentives are only for new cars — many California utilities and local agencies offer rebates for used EV purchases, and some offer higher amounts for income-qualified households.
Clean Cars 4 All
A Powerful EV Incentive for Income-Eligible Californians
If you have an older, high-emission vehicle, Clean Cars 4 All (CC4A) can help you replace it with a cleaner, more affordable option. This California EV incentive offers up to $12,000 toward an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle, plus an extra $2,000 for home charging or public charging credits.
Even though the Clean Vehicle Rebate Program (CVRP) is no longer available, CC4A remains a huge opportunity for income-eligible Californians to switch to a cleaner, cheaper car. The program has also been expanding statewide through the Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP)—making more people eligible than ever.
What Is Clean Cars For All?
Clean Cars 4 All (CC4A) is a California incentive program that helps income-eligible residents replace older, high-pollution vehicles with cleaner alternatives. Participants can receive up to $12,000 toward a new or used electric vehicle (EV) or plug-in hybrid (PHEV), plus an additional $2,000 for home charging equipment or public charging credits.
CC4A is currently available in five California regions: South Coast, Bay Area, San Joaquin Valley, Sacramento, and San Diego. DCAP expands similar support statewide.
If you’re considering CC4A or DCAP to replace your older vehicle, here’s what you need to know to get the most out of your incentive and ensure a smooth application process.
1. Check Your Eligibility & Vehicle Requirements
- Your old car must be scrapped – Only high-emission vehicles qualify, and you’ll need to take it to an authorized dismantler to check if it qualifies.
- Check your income level – The program is for income-qualified applicants, typically at or below 300% of the federal poverty level.
- Conventional hybrids may no longer qualify for using the credit – Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and fully electric vehicles (EVs) are prioritized in some areas. However, you are able to use your incentive toward a new or used EV depending on the price.
2. Apply on Time—Funds Are First Come, First Served
- You must apply before purchasing or leasing your EV. CC4A requires approval before you complete your transaction.
- There’s an 18-month deadline after approval to use your funds. Don’t wait too long or risk losing your incentive.
- Funds can run out — once the program budget is exhausted, applications close.
3. Buy From a Participating Dealership
- Not all dealerships qualify – Only program-approved dealerships are eligible. Check before you buy.
- There are price limits on vehicles – Make sure your chosen EV or PHEV falls within CC4A guidelines.
- Private-party sales are not allowed – The program requires you to purchase or lease from a participating dealership.
4. Get the Maximum Incentive Based on Your Location
- Live in a disadvantaged community? You may qualify for the full $12,000 incentive—the highest funding available.
- San Diego is included – The program operates across five participating regions.
- Outside a CC4A region? The Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP) is available statewide and may offer similar benefits.
5. Understand the Financial Details
- Your incentive may be taxable – Tax treatment can vary. If you’re unsure, consider confirming with a tax professional.
- Vehicle price caps apply – Double-check that your chosen car falls within program limits.
The Four Clean Cars 4 All Programs
Eligible participants of the Replace Your Ride program can obtain up to $12,000 to trade in their old, high-emission vehicles for newer models. Options include upgrading to a hybrid, electric vehicle, e-bike, or receiving an alternative transportation card.
This initiative is open to residents within the South Coast AQMD Jurisdiction who meet specific income and vehicle criteria.
Location: The South Coast area, including Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange counties
Maximum amount: $12,000 + $2,000 towards a Home Electric Vehicle Charger or EVgo charging credit
2. Clean Cars for All - Bay area
The amount of money you can obtain from this program depends on both your household income and the type of vehicle you select. On average, Clean Cars for All vehicles are priced at $36,000, with typical incentives around $8,300.
Usually, the average loan amount for financing a replacement vehicle is $21,200. If you opt for a Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) or Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), you could receive up to $2,000 for electric vehicle charging. For more details, visit the Charging Your EV page.
Location: The Bay area
Maximum amount: $12,000 + $2,000 towards a Home Electric Vehicle Charger or EVgo charging credit
3. Drive Clean in the San Joaquin
The Valley Air District's Replace program is open to individuals with a household income at or below 300% of the federal poverty level (FPL). The funding amounts available are based on the type of vehicle you plan to buy, your household income, and whether you reside in a Disadvantaged Community. Use the incentive calculator above to estimate your potential funding.
Maximum amount: $12,000 + $2,000 towards a Home Electric Vehicle Charger or EVgo charging credit
Location: San Joaquin Valley
4. Clean Cars 4 All - Sacramento area
Participants may receive up to $12,000 for purchasing a qualifying new or used vehicle or leasing an eligible new vehicle, depending on their income and mobility choices. Alternatively, they can choose to use this funding for electric bikes instead of vehicles.
Maximum amount: $12,000 + $2,000 towards a Home Electric Vehicle Charger or EVgo charging credit
Location: The Sacramento area
5. Clean Cars 4 All - San Diego
The San Diego Air Pollution Control District's Clean Cars 4 All program provides grants of up to $12,000 to help low-income residents replace older, polluting vehicles with cleaner options. If awarded a grant, you can buy or lease a new or used qualifying electric vehicle from an authorized dealership or receive a pre-paid card for public transit and/or an e-bike. To qualify, applicants must meet specific vehicle, income and residency requirements. The program includes a simple application process, and approved participants can also receive up to $2,000 support for purchasing an electric vehicle charger. Learn more here.
Maximum amount:$12,000 + $2,000 towards a Home Electric Vehicle Charger or EVgo charging credit
Location: San Diego
Cash For Clunkers In California (2026)
First and foremost Clean Cars 4 All (and the statewide DCAP program) generally offer the best “replace-your-ride” incentives in California—especially if you can scrap an older, high-emission vehicle.
If you don’t qualify for CC4A/DCAP, another legitimate option to look into is California’s Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) Consumer Assistance Program. In some cases, BAR can pay you to retire a vehicle that fails a Smog Check (amounts vary by eligibility). Learn more here: BAR Vehicle Retirement.
Simply trade in an older, polluting vehicle for cash -- which you can then put towards a new ride!
The Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP)
Get Up to $14,000 to Go Electric
Launched in 2024, the Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP) expands California’s Clean Cars 4 All (CC4A) program statewide, making EV incentives available to more residents than ever before. Qualified participants can receive up to $14,000 to purchase or lease a clean vehicle, including:
- Up to $12,000 toward the cost of a new or used electric vehicle (EV) or plug-in hybrid (PHEV)
- An additional $2,000 for home charging equipment or public charging credit
Who Qualifies for DCAP?
- Up to $12,000 for income-qualified participants scrapping an older, high-emission vehicle in a disadvantaged area
- Up to $7,500 for income-eligible participants without scrapping a vehicle
- Available statewide, reaching areas that previously lacked Clean Cars 4 All (CC4A)
Additional Benefits Beyond Vehicle Incentives
DCAP goes beyond just funding EV purchases—it also provides:
- Low-interest loans (when available) to make EV ownership more affordable
- Mobility solutions such as transit passes and e-bike incentives for those who don’t want to own a car
- Up to $2,000 for home EV charging installation or public charging credits
Note: DCAP financing availability can change based on program demand. Check the official site for the latest status.
Part of California’s Strategy for Cleaner Transportation
DCAP is part of the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) effort to simplify and expand EV incentive programs, ensuring more Californians—especially those in underserved communities—have access to clean transportation options.
How to Apply for DCAP
Before purchasing or leasing an EV, you must apply and be approved to receive funding.
Check your eligibility and apply today—funds are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Learn more about DCAP and see if you qualify.
EV Home Charging Incentives In California
It's worth checking with yours if you qualify for help with charging expenses or with installing a home EV charger. Plug in your zip code here for a quick search for incentives - which can come from the government or utility companies.
Buyers of EVs through CC4A and DCAP are eligible for up to $2,000 for home charger incentives or prepaid charge cards if home charger installation is not feasible.
You may also qualify for the federal EV charger tax credit (the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit) for 30% of eligible costs (including installation), up to $1,000—but it’s limited to eligible locations and is currently set to expire on June 30, 2026. Learn more: IRS guidance.
You could additionally qualify for incentives if you are interested in solar panels.
There are also income-eligible household utility discounts through California’s CARE and FERA programs that can help lower your overall electric bill (including EV charging). Learn more and find enrollment links here: CARE/FERA.
Why Are There EV Incentives In California?
There are several reasons why California offers incentives to replace fossil fuel cars with EVs.
California continues to have some of the worst air quality in the country. In the American Lung Association’s State of the Air reporting, California regions consistently rank among the most polluted for ozone (smog) and particle pollution.
For example, Los Angeles has repeatedly ranked as the nation’s most ozone-polluted metro area in recent Lung Association reporting. Much of this is driven by ozone (smog) and particle pollution from vehicle emissions.
California is also committed to making the switch from gasoline to electric to meet its goal of reducing carbon emissions by 40% from 1990 levels by 2030, and reaching carbon neutrality by 2045.
On top of this, California’s ZEV (Zero Emissions Vehicles) Program and the state’s Advanced Clean Cars II rules set increasing targets for zero-emission vehicle sales starting with model year 2026 (for example, a 35% ZEV sales target for 2026 model-year light-duty vehicles).
Note: California’s clean vehicle rules have also faced significant federal pushback and legal challenges in recent years, which may affect how policies are implemented over time. We cover the latest context in our guide to the gas car phaseout in California.
So be sure to take advantage of incentives. By driving an EV instead of a gasoline-powered car, you’re doing a service for the environment and the health of other Californians.
California EV Tax Credits & Incentives Conclusion
By driving an EV, you’re keeping our air cleaner and our climate healthier. You’re benefiting other Californians. You deserve to take advantage of these incentives and feel great about driving your EV.
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