Electric Car Incentives In California For 2025
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.
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.
Expanded Federal EV Tax Credit
The federal EV tax credit remains a powerful incentive:
- Up to $7,500 for a new EV (eligibility depends on income and vehicle).
- Up to $4,000 for a used EV – making used electric cars more accessible than ever.
- Leasing loophole – If you or your EV don’t qualify for the tax credit, many EV lease deals automatically apply it as an upfront discount.
Time-Sensitive Opportunity: The federal EV tax credit may not be available for much longer, making now the perfect time to purchase or lease your dream EV.
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 2025—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 federal, 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 in 2025?
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 2025.
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!
Clean Air Vehicle Sticker In CA
A statewide EV incentive still currently available is the Clean Air Vehicle sticker. This sticker lets you use HOV lanes regardless of the number of occupants in the vehicle. Your vehicle is also then eligible for reduced rates or exemptions from toll charges for HOT lanes.
The CAV decal program will end soon, and any remaining valid decals will expire on September 30, 2025. However, if you and your vehicle are eligible, you can still apply here and use it until then.
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. And in 2024, the program started 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. In 2024, the program began expanding statewide through the Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP), making it accessible to more Californians.
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 now included – The program recently expanded, bringing the total number of participating regions to five.
- Outside a CC4A region? The Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP) is expanding statewide and may offer similar benefits.
5. Understand the Financial Details
- Your incentive may be taxable – Plan accordingly, as these funds could count as taxable income.
- 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 2025 In California
First and foremost Clean Cars 4 All generally offers a much better incentive for EVs and is worth looking into further to see if you qualify. It is one of the few "cash for clunkers" like incentives available in the US.
However, for-profit companies offer cash to replace your ride if you or your car are not eligible for Clean Cars 4 All. Learn more about Cash for Clunkers programs in 2025.
Simply trade in an older, polluting vehicle for cash -- which you can then put towards a new ride!
EV Incentives for Gasoline-Burdened Families
In 2024, California Assembly member Phil Ting introduced AB 2401, a bill aimed at transitioning gasoline-burdened families to electric vehicles. It passed unanimously through the state senate. This legislation intended to lower fuel costs for those in greatest need while accelerating the reduction of auto pollution. It would have provided additional incentives for lower income gasoline superusers.
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 with a maximum 8% cap 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
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.
There is currently an Electric Vehicle Federal Tax Credit that offers individuals up to 30% off home charging stations. It can additionally help with installation costs up to $1,000.
You could additionally qualify for incentives if you are interested in solar panels.
There are also income-eligible household discounts of 18% to 20% on your household electric bill through the CARE and FERA programs that can help with vehicle charging. You can enroll here if you have not already.
How To Find California Local EV Incentives
Drive Clean CA.gov is a great place to search for EV incentives by zip code in California
You can also search by zip code on plugstar to cross-reference against your Drive Clean search.
Further EV incentives can include more rebates such as:
- Customers of Southern California Edison (SCE), the main electricity supply company for most of Southern California, can apply for up to a $4,000 rebate with the Pre-Owned Vehicle Rebate Program.
- Through the Peninsula Clean Energy DriveForward Electric Program, income-qualifying San Mateo County residents could be eligible for an incentive of up to $2,000 for purchasing a used electric vehicle.
- Discounted tolls, special loans, low-cost home charging rates and electric utilities incentives, etc.
Download the Ultimate EV Home Charging Cheat Sheet
We put together this free cheat sheet to help people learn about EV charging and how to purchase the right home charger. Simply enter your email to access the cheat sheet as well as sign up for other EV news and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.
The EV Home Charging Cheat Sheet is brought to you completely free of charge by Coltura, an award-winning nonprofit.
Don’t Forget About The Federal Electric Vehicle Credit In 2025
You might also qualify for up to a $7,500 tax credit from the federal government for purchasing a new EV.
Beginning in 2024, eligible buyers of eligible electric vehicles or plug-in hybrids will receive the tax credit at the time of purchase as an “on the hood” discount. There's no longer a need to wait to take the credit at the time of tax filing. On top of this, in 2025 taxpayers who don’t owe enough tax to be offset by the credit will still be eligible for the full $7,500 credit.
There’s also a new federal tax credit for USED EVs priced up to $25,000. The discount is up to $4,000 or 30% of vehicle cost, whichever is lower.
Combined with the CA incentives, your savings could be huge.
Get more info on the Electric Vehicle Federal Tax Credit.
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. For 2019, 2020 and 2021, of the eleven US counties with the worst combined short-term particle pollution, ozone, and long-term particle pollution levels, ten were in California. One in three Californians live in areas with unhealthy air.
California cities claim the top four spots of U.S. cities with the most Particulate matter. And in terms of ozone pollution, Los Angeles is the most polluted city in the nation, just as it has been for 23 of the last 24 years. Much of this is caused by the 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 is one of states that participate in the ZEV (Zero Emissions Vehicles) Program, which requires that automakers ensure that a certain percent of all vehicles they sell in the state are ZEVs (ZEVs are mostly electric vehicles, but can also be hydrogen fuel cell vehicles). Because of recent regulation, by 2026, all automakers must have at least 35% ZEV sales.
Learn more about 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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