California State Car Buy Back Program May 2026

The amount you receive depends primarily on your household income:

The vehicle must have failed its most recent biennial Smog Check inspection. california state car buy back program

It must have been continuously registered in California for the past two years without a lapse exceeding 120 days. The amount you receive depends primarily on your

You must be the registered owner with a title issued in your name. california state car buy back program

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's Vehicle Retirement Program: Get Paid to Scrap Your Old Car

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