Government Buys Your Car Info

To qualify for a government buyout in California, you and your vehicle must typically meet several criteria:

Applicants who meet specific income requirements (e.g., household income ≤is less than or equal to

The primary way the government "buys" your car is through , which provide financial incentives to remove older, high-polluting vehicles from the road. In California, this is managed by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) under the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP). Vehicle Retirement Program Summary government buys your car

The vehicle must have been continuously registered in California for at least two years prior to the application date.

You must be the registered owner with a title issued in your name. To qualify for a government buyout in California,

225% of federal poverty guidelines) can receive up to .

While the retirement program is the most direct "buyout," the government also offers indirect financial benefits for car owners: You must be the registered owner with a

If eligible, you will receive a Letter of Eligibility and a list of contracted dismantlers.