Last Updated 20th of April, 2010

If I drive a hybrid vehicle, can I drive in the HOV lane without passengers?

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Hybrids in HOV Lane

Only a few states allow owners of hybrid cars to drive in HOV lanes with single occupancy. The intent of this incentive is to induce drivers to buy fuel-efficient vehicles with low emissions.

If you reside in a state offering this perk, be sure to check the requirements with your DMV or your Department of Transportation before wandering solo into an HOV. Most states require eligible hybrid drivers to apply for a decal or plate. In New York, for example, hybrids must display a Clean Pass sticker, while in Arizona only hybrids with special Alternative Fuel license plates affixed with a hybrid decal can operate in HOVs. 

For the scoop on your state, see the grid below.

Yes in HOV No in HOV
Alabama
x
Alaska
x
Arizona
x
Only allowed if vehicle displays an Alternative Fuel license plate affixed with a hybrid decal.
Arkansas
x
California
x
Only allowed if vehicle displays a Clean Air Vehicle sticker.
Colorado
x
Only allowed if vehicle displays an HOV exemption sticker.
Connecticut
x
Delaware
x
Florida
x
Only allowed if vehicle displays a High Occupancy Vehicle Decal.
Georgia
x
Hawaii
x
Idaho
x
Illinois
x
Indiana
x
Iowa
x
Kansas
x
Kentucky
x
Louisiana
x
Maine
x
Maryland
x
Massachusetts
x
Michigan
x
Minnesota
x
Mississippi
x
Missouri
x
Montana
x
Nebraska
x
Nevada
x
New Hampshire
x
New Jersey
x
HOV access limited to a small stretch on the NJ Turnpike, between exits 11 and 14.
New Mexico
x
New York
x
Only allowed if vehicle displays a Clean Pass sticker.
North Carolina
x
North Dakota
x
Ohio
x
Oklahoma
x
Oregon
x
Pennsylvania
x
Rhode Island
x
South Carolina
x
South Dakota
x
Tennessee
x
Only allowed if vehicle displays a Smart Pass.
Texas
x
Utah
x
Only allowed if vehicle displays a current C plate.
Vermont
x
Virginia
x
Only allowed if vehicle displays a Clean Fuel plate.
Washington
x
West Virginia
x
Wisconsin
x
Wyoming
x
Washington DC
x

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