The state offers several paths for vehicle retirement, depending on a resident's income level and geographic location:
For many buy-back programs, the vehicle must have passed its most recent required Smog Check. However, if a vehicle fails a biennial Smog Check, it may qualify for CAP retirement even if the owner does not meet low-income status.
Offers up to $2,000 for 2000 model year or older vehicles.
Residents whose household income is less than or equal to 225% of the federal poverty level can receive $1,500 or $2,000 to retire their vehicle.
Currently pays $2,200 per eligible vehicle for 2002 and older models.
The primary goal of these programs is the Voluntary Accelerated Vehicle Retirement (VAVR) . Older vehicles often lack modern emission control systems. According to data from the Bay Area Air District , retiring just one pre-1998 vehicle can prevent an estimated 75 pounds of air pollution annually. This reduction in ozone precursors and fine particles directly contributes to lower rates of respiratory disease and mortality in high-traffic regions.
Managed by the BAR, this program provides varying incentive amounts based on household income:
