California State Car Buy Back Program May 2026

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

It must have all major parts in place, including the hood, doors, dashboard, and at least one functional headlight and taillight. For the Owner:

California's Vehicle Retirement Program: Get Paid to Scrap Your Old Car california state car buy back program

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 The vehicle must have failed its most recent

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

The amount you receive depends primarily on your household income: The amount you receive depends primarily on your

You cannot have retired another vehicle as a sole owner (or more than two as a joint owner) within the last 12 months. How to Apply