Oregon’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Program Re-Opens for 2026

A widespread transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is an important piece of Oregon's long-term environmental goals. Our dominantly gas-dependent transportation system currently accounts for 35% of the state's total greenhouse gas emissions , making it Oregon's largest source of climate pollution and a major contributor to air pollution. With the continually rising costs of fuel and vehicle maintenance, we're left with vehicles that are both expensive to drive and harmful to our community.

Compared to gas-fueled cars, EVs produce no tailpipe emissions and can be significantly cheaper for drivers to operate and maintain over time. But the up-front purchase price of an EV often remains cost prohibitive for the average consumer; for a meaningful shift to driving EVs to occur, purchasing an electric vehicle must also be financially realistic. Oregon DEQ's Clean Vehicle Rebate Program was established in 2018 to lower this major barrier, with new updates made in 2026 that are designed to support working class Oregonians in making the switch - and applications are open now!

How The Clean Vehicle Rebate Program Works

From August 25th, 2026 to November 4th, 2026, the Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program will reopen for applicants who buy an electric vehicle in that time window. Rebates are available for approved electric cars, plug-in hybrid cars, and zero emission motorcycles , though purchasing or leasing is limited to participating dealerships .

Through the program, DEQ offers two rebate options. The Standard Rebate provides $2,000 toward an eligible new EV, $1,500 for an eligible plug-in hybrid, and $375 for a new zero-emission motorcycle. The Standard Rebate is open to any applicant, regardless of income.

DEQ also offers the Charge Ahead Rebate , which has been strengthened with additional benefits in 2026 . Charge Ahead offers assistance specifically to income-qualified households where the upfront cost of an EV may be a barrier to purchase. Households with annual incomes below 400% of the federal poverty guideline qualify - meaning an individual Oregonian earning around $60,000 or less per year may be eligible.

If approved for the Charge Ahead Rebate, participants buying a new electric car can receive $7,500, or $5,000 for a new plug-in hybrid. Further increasing accessibility, the Charge Ahead Rebate can also apply to used EVs, receiving a rebate of up to $4,000 (capped at 30% of the vehicle price), and a used plug-in hybrid can receive up to $2,500.

Pre-approval is also available for those who qualify for the Charge Ahead Rebate, allowing shoppers to receive a voucher to bring along with them to the dealership, where the rebate can be deducted from the vehicle's purchase price at the time of sale.

Don't delay - timing of your application matters. While DEQ anticipates Clean Vehicle Rebate Program funds to be available through November 5th, demand has previously led to rebates closing early. A waitlist will be created if this occurs, allowing approved applicants for the next round of available rebates (targeted for Spring 2027).

Why It Matters

DEQ's Clean Vehicle Rebate Program lowers the largest barrier stopping Oregonians from transitioning to an electric vehicle. Over the lifetime of the program, more than 33,000 rebates have been issued - the positive impacts on our environment and public health are already significant, and will only continue to increase. The effort supports Oregon's continued progress toward a transportation future that is economically viable, safer for our communities, and truly protective of our environment.

To learn more and apply, visit the Oregon DEQ's Website.

Have questions about the process? Reach out to us at [email protected] and we'd be happy to help! We'd also love to hear from you about your experience with the program.