California State Car Buy Back Program -

The vehicle must be operable and able to be driven to a BAR-contracted dismantler under its own power.

You must be the registered owner with a title issued in your name.

California offers financial incentives to residents who voluntarily retire high-polluting vehicles through the , managed by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) . As of 2026, eligible participants can receive up to $2,000 for retiring a vehicle that fails a smog check. Incentive Amounts california state car buy back program

The vehicle must have failed its most recent biennial Smog Check inspection.

It must have been continuously registered in California for the past two years without a lapse exceeding 120 days. The vehicle must be operable and able to

The amount you receive depends primarily on your household income:

Residents with a household income less than or equal to 225% of the Federal Poverty Level can receive $2,000 . As of 2026, eligible participants can receive up

All other eligible vehicle owners can receive $1,350 . Eligibility Requirements