Driving Clean Assistance Program

California Air Resources Board (CARB)

What does it fund?

Grants for priority low-income consumers to purchase or lease a new or used hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric vehicle. Applicants who own an old vehicle to scrap are eligible to choose alternative mobility options, such as e-bikes or other clean transportation options, instead. Eligible participants of select vehicles would be eligible for an additional incentive that would go towards a pre-loaded charge card or a home charger. Low interest rate loans may also be offered to priority low-income consumers.

Who is eligible for funds?

Low-income California residents who have not participated in past CARB vehicle incentive programs.

This program will provide geographic coverage to the areas of California that currently do not have an Air-District administered Clean Cars 4 All program.

How does this program provide benefits to priority populations?

The program’s needs-based model maximizes funding for the lowest income applicants to either purchase or lease a clean vehicle or choose other clean transportation mobility options. The program is expected to reduce the health risks and transportation cost of priority low-income consumers while providing access to reliable and clean transportation mobility.

How do I access funds?

Complete an online application.

Funding timeline

Driving Clean Assistance Program is expected to launch in Imperial Valley at the end of the summer 2024 and rollout to the rest of the state through the end of 2024. Subscribe for further information and updates such as launch.

Processing times for applications will vary based on the need-base tier the applicant falls into. Approved applicants must redeem the grant between the date the approval email was sent, and the expiration date provided in the approval email. The applicant must reapply if the grant is not redeemed prior to the expiration date.