Grace period for using CA carpool lanes ends for Clean Air Decal drivers

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Commuters who have been using the carpool lane with their low emissions vehicle without a passenger will start to be fined.

Monday marks the end of the 60-day grace period for drivers with Clean Air Vehicle decals.

The federal government ended the program earlier this year.

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With the California Clean Air Vehicle Decal Program ending, drivers will say goodbye to several perks.

The stickers were an incentive for people to drive vehicles with low or zero emissions.

Drivers with one of the decals who get caught driving solo in carpool lanes could get a ticket.

Fines start at $490.

MORE: Casual Carpool: Popular commuter option to cross Bay Bridge returns with Oakland stop

So, what can you do if you want to speed up your commute by using the carpool lanes?

At the Bay Bridge, you'll need at least three people in your car.

MORE: Bay Area's 'Casual Carpool' making a comeback as state's 'Clean Air Decal' program expiring soon

You could also try "casual carpool."

It returned over the summer, after a pandemic hiatus.

There are 20 pick-up and drop-off locations across the East Bay and San Francisco.