CA DMV Clean Air Stickers SUCK!

I have a dark gray '05 HCH, and I don't mind the yellow sticker at all.

I understand the need to make these stand out to help the CHP when doing HOV lane enforcement.

I don't care what color they are, it's a very small price to pay to enjoy carpool lane priveleges, which was fantastic during my commute this morning.

I read that someone started a petition against these 4 stickers. Anyone have the link?

Where can I get information about the correct placement of CA Clean air Stickers

How long did it take to get the stickers? i just purchased a 05 HCH and i dont have plates yet,the for has a spot for the plate number, can i apply without a plate number yet? Anyone try putting these on their windows instead, like the smaill sade window? i hate to put this sticker on a body panel. reason they didnt want them on the windows is cause they roll down, but the far back quarter glass doesnt.

WHY CANT THE STATE ISSUE A SPECIAL LICENCE PLATE INSTEAD OF THESE UGLY STICKERS?

I don't care how many stickers I have to put on my car to drive solo in the HOV lane . . . plus, as an added advantage, the sticker on the rear bumper covered up a boo boo I did :)

I received my stickers in the mail last Friday and could not wait to try it out. My commute to work in Orange County, California is usually 50-60 minutes in the morning and sometimes a bit longer at night. I cruised on the carpool lane to work in less than 20 minutes this morning and about 18 minutes tonight. What a relief....I will never complain about the stickers.....My stress level has changed dramatically. Best decision I ever made was to buy the hybrid. I knew I would save on gas, but at the time I bought, I did not anticipate the extra benefit that would eventually be granted to us...

I hated the stickers when I saw them but after driving up the 605 freeway in record time the stickers look Great
to me, getting a Toyota Prius is the best car I have
ever owned . I Love my Prius!

Does anyone have information regarding the "FasTrack" transponders (for certain CA bridge tolls in the Bay area) having a green dot affixed that identifies HOV lane authorization? Does the use of the "green dot" preclude using the ugly yellow decals?

For Al D: See my recent bolg reports on getting the FasTrak transponder: http://www.hybridcars.com/blogs/hybrid-commuter

Paul,

Thanks. I think I get it! Incidently, you have great idea with this page....Thanks again..

David and anybody else: Here's the DMV's instructions on applying the stickers:

http://www.paulburnett.com/sticker.pdf

(From my blog at http://www.hybridcars.com/blogs/hybrid-commuter/where-to-put-the-stickers)

(To rotate the image: look in the upper right corner of your Adobe Acrobat browser screen and select the little arrow that will rotate it counterclockwise - or print it and rotate it 90 degrees.)

Does anyone know if the stickers are tied to the person or the vehicle. I was about to sell my 2004 and get a new 2006, which should be available late in the year. I already have stickers and worried they will reach the 75k limit or suspend the program before I get my 2006. Does anyone have info on this?

With the time I've saved on my commute the last week I'm already addicted to the HOV lane and would rather drive my 2004 into the ground before giving up my HOV access for a new 2006.

Sent off for the stickers as soon as dmv posted the form and received them in eight days. Couldn't wait to get out there and was actually disappointed the first day because traffic was light for a change coming home from LA on the 10. Anyone know how many of these stickers are gone? Thinking of trading my 2003 in for a 2006, but don't want to risk not having "the precious".

Just test the magnetic sheet idea on my Prius and get some dissapointed results. Neither the front or rear bumper is made out of iron or steel, therefore the magentic sheet won't work on them. Even the front hood is made out of non-iron metal. Only the side body is rion/steel.

I have just found this from the Bay Area FastTrak website. For those who just purchased their hybrid cars, you don't need to wait until after you get the DMV registration to get the FastTrak transponder.

http://www.bayareafastrak.org/static/about/faq_hybrid.shtml

I bought a Civic Hybrid about a month ago. The dealer told me they would send the carpool sticker application for me along with other DMV paperwork. It's been 1 month now. I still haven't received anything. Of course, I haven't received my license plate either. I wonder if there is any site I can check for status, or should I apply again after receiving my plate.

At first I hate the sticker
but everyday it is looking better and nowit is the best looking yellow sticker as I cruise the diamond lane

I too just got my stickers (DMV took 3 weeks to send them), and I HATE THEM! I have a black 2005 Prius, and they are SO UGLY. I have never any put any type of sticker on any car I've owned.

I agree with the person who said why doesn't the state just make a different license plate? And, as another poster said, it is a Prius, and the Prius is an "approved" car for purposes of the HOV lane.

There is a form that accompanies the stickers that you are supposed to keep in the car along with the registration that must be presented to a cop upon request. That alone would prove that you legally have the stickers.

To the folks in California who want to start a movement to get rid of these ugly stickers, please email me. Let's talk. The more of us who complain, the better.

Having said all of that, my commute is cut at least 20 minutes and I'm getting a minimum of 50 mpg.

I have a 2005 Black Prius also, but I could care less about the color of the stickers. I bought the car because I drive over 120 miles a day for work and the commute in the morning usually averages about 2 1/2 hours. Needless to say, I was filling up my old car with gas about every day and a half.

When I got the stickers for the carpool lane, I didn't care what color they were. Don't get me wrong, it would have been nicer to have white stickers, but if they were neon green and allowed me to cut my commute time in half, I would have done it.

I now have about an hour and a half commute to work and fill my tank every 6 to 7 days. I quietly smile to myself as I cruise along in the carpool lane on the 105 and watch everyone else sitting in traffic. I am glad as a Hybrid owner that I am even allowed this perk. It has been an extra bonus to owning the Prius.

hey! does anyone know what would happen if the stickers were not exactly placed the right way? I accidentally placed the large ones on the bumper and the small ones on the sides???

I got my stickers today -- the DMV actually sent them to the dealer where I bought my car, luckily they were nice enough to call me about it.

Here's the actual application instructions:

http://www.paulburnett.com/sticker.pdf

(Hit the"Rotate the image" icon three times - sorry about that.)

Getting anxious as another prior post had mentioned about whether to wait to grab the first hybrid available?

Anyone got any idea about how much HOV stickers have been issued? (more importantly, HOW MANY ARE LEFT???!!! for those of us still waiting to get a hybrid to put the sticker on?)

I also noticed the left / right discrepancy. The diagram has got to be wrong!

Does anyone know for sure if the 2006 Civic Hybrid will qualify for the HOV sticker? I just applied for my 2003, but I am trading it in for the '06. Do you think it will make a difference if I use those stickers on my '06 instead. Since I am not sure what will come first my new car or my stickers.

They cashed my 8$ check on Sept 8th, two weeks after I sent it in the mail. It is now Oct. 17th and I don't have my stickers yet. Almost 5 weeks since they cashed my check! It is frustrating every day that I sit in traffic when they have already spent my money! I called the Air Resource board and they said it can take up to 6 weeks after they cash the check. They said they will do a search for it after the 6 week time frame. That is government speed for you! In the South Peninsula, San Jose area, I have only seen two other hybrids that have the stickers.

I read that the Hybrids can use the FastTrak lanes with the transponder and that the toll is deducted everytime......so I beleive we do have to pay the toll if there is only one person in the car......but, what if we have more than one person? Will the transponder automatically still deduct the toll from our account?

I don't like the fact that South Bay folks have to by the transponder accounts, I probably go over a bridge once or twice a year and that is usually with friends or family for a weekend trip!

Thanks for the info on this site.....it is helpful!

Hi, everyone. This is an emergency and I am looking for someone who owns the car that qualifies for the yellow sticker and already driving in the carpool lane solo, since we are a TV production company planning to do a news documentary show about the whole sticker thing for Japanese news stations. We just want to do a short interview who owns the qualified car and shoot a driving scene when he / she is on the freeway in the carpool lane. Please contact me if you are interested in ASAP at because the shooting date will be on the 27th of Oct. (Next Thursday) If you live in Los Angeles area and would like to cooperate in this documentary show or know someone who will be able to, please contact me. Thank you so much!! Amy

I received my stickers yesterday, 10/23, after submitting the application on 9/19 and DMV cashing my check on 10/13.

I thought I read somebody's post about applying a clear film to the bumpers in order to safely remove the sticker (if needed). Has anybody tried this?

Thanks to the posters on this site, I learned a lot about the dos and don’ts of sticker application.

To folks waiting on their stickers, I say hang in there the time saved on your commute will dissipate your initial frustration.

Good link:

http://www.dmv.ca.gov/forms/reg/reg1000.htm

I just took one of the big stickers and placed it on the lower part of the rear window, below the rear windshield wiper on my Toyota Prius. It's clearly visible and if a CHP officer or local cop finds me in the HOV lane by myself and DOESN'T see it, then let him pull me over. I have the permit, I have the sticker, I have a qualifying car. i would love to argue that point with a cop who tells me my stickers are not correctly positioned.

Sounds like CA DMV *will* process your app based on VIN #. (I called DMV and that's what they told me, too, but I didn't trust them 100%.)

See the related thread on PriusChat.com:
http://priuschat.com/index.php?showtopic=11396&hl=carpool+sticker

I sent mine in earlier this week, so too early for me to tell.

Some of us Hybrid owners to not travel across the Bay Area bridges on a daily basis.....Why is it that we need a "Fast Trac" account to obtain the stickers?

FYI -- I applied with only a VIN # (no plate number then) and stickers arrived today.

mike

Sent application on Nov 1st. Received the stickers on Nov 19th. Not bad.

I got the fast track responder as required even though I live in San Jose and almost never cross a bridge. I was worried because the fastrack instructions say you must bring your registration that identifies your car as a hybrid. There was nothing on my registration that notes it as such. However I found out from fasttrack that a "Q" in the model means it is a hybrid. You can get all the fasttrack paperwork done in about 15 minutes in person at their office (close to pier 5). They told me to just leave the transponder in the mylar bag in my glove box since I will rarely need it.

I can't believe all the whining about the stickers. No one forces you to get them. It is reasonable that the cops need a quick way to identify eligible cars. Special license plates are way too easy to transfer to another car. Get over it.

The stickers could have clowns and balloons on them or be the size of my car door and I'd still put them on the Prius.

Face it - it's a privilege. They save time, money, stress, and they add YEARS to our life-spans!

Good going, California law makers!

Nice job!

Doug: Good luck. Let us know how much the fine is when you get caught.

November 6th, 2005 mailed application. November 21, check was cashed by the DMV. Today, December 5, 2005, I'm still waiting!

Has anyone recieved their stickers recently who can give an update on what number the DMV is at with issuance? I'm sending in my application for the stickers this week for my '06 CivicH and am hoping we're not too close to the 75K. thanks

I mailed in my application on November 12 with just the VIN. I received my stickers in the mail today (sticker 37917). So, to answer two questions, the DMV WILL issue stickers without license plates AND they are up almost 38,000 stickers issued.

As far as I know, the message you got is right.

May, payment of the toll (via FasTrak transponder) is required on any of the Bay area toll bridges for solo drivers in Priuses and Honda Civic and Insight hybrids. Read http://www.mtc.ca.gov/services/fastrak/hybrids.htm and the FAQ.

No, May. You stay in the carpool lane and the FasTrak transponder automatically takes care of paying your bridge toll - you blast through the toll gate without even slowing down, and the toll is deducted from your VISA account once a month (or however you arrange to have it paid).

The only problem is when you actually have a carpool in your hybrid and your toll is free, you have to rip your transponder off its Velcro holder and put it in its radio-frequency-shielded metallic plastic bag to avoid being charged.

Maria, the cop who sees you driving solo in the carpool lane wants to see your sticker quickly, so he can go on to the next solo driver who _doesn't_ have a sticker. And that cop may be in front of you, behind you, or on either side of you.

Plates & HOV stickers arrived the same day. # 386nn

Expect delivery within 5 days of your check being cashed.

Got stickers!
Be interested to know how the carpool lane pick up the fastrak transponder on bay bridge? It looks like carpool lanes bypass all the tolls.

Thanks Paul!

Though I imagine it is an uncommon occurance, my stickers were erroneously held up in the DMV beurocracy by virtue of someone putting me into the wrong "basket" I sent my completed paperwork into the DMV in late September, and the check was cashed perhaps a week later. I did not receive my sticker until today, December 17th. After much calling, apparently there is only one group in Sacramento dealing with these stickers and no one else is qualifed to explain anything, I finally got through to a manager that was able to look up my account. My only recommendation is call, call, call, otherwise you may never get anything resolved. Also I drove in the HOV lanes for a month without a second look from the fuzz. They've got bigger fish to fry.

D

If anyone cares, I called the DMV and they said the stickers go with the car so no need to transfer the name to the new owner!

Is CA still issuing HOV stickers? Has anyone heard any rumors on how many may be left and/or how long they are projected to last?

You whiners are a bunch of f_____g idiots. If you don't like the sticker, then sell your car and suffer in the other lanes with the rest of the traffic.

Government has the power to hurt in proportion to its power to help. You get the privilege to drive in the HOV lanes. Some asses in Sacramento made the "price" that fugly yellow sticker. Its your choice.

But please, shut up.

Boris

Quick question to those with the CA DMV Clean Air Stickers.

Can I just apply for them and not get the fasttrak?

I'd just prefer not to use Fasttrak as I don't drive up to SF often and would rather not go thru the hassle of signing up and paying for a FASTTRAK account.

If anyone can note here, or email me, and let me know that would be great.

Many of you are writing about how long it took to receive the stickers in the mail after mailing in the application ~~ my question is: can you personally hand-deliver the application, check and paper work to the appropriate gov. agency location (even if you have to go to Sacramento) and receive the stickers on the spot? or at least expedite thethe delivery by doing some of the leg work? Thanks.

Marti
January 1, 2006

Does anyone know how many stickers CA DMV has issued to date? Or how I can find out? Or, even, if I haven't bought my hybrid yet, but plan to this month, do you think I'm out of luck in getting a sticker?

Thanks in advance.

Thanks so much, Natalie for your reply, you saved a long driving trip for nothing for me ~~ Thanks again!

Sara and Todd,
When you fill out the application, write "TEMP" in the space for the license number. I bought a 2006 HCH in early November and applied for the stickers the day after buying the car (w/o a license plate). It took about a month to get the stickers, but still have not received my plates. That's the DMV for you! Good luck!

Here is a question: I was driving home today in my new HCH, waiting for my stickers, when a motorcycle cop pulled over another HCH that had their stickers on their car. We were on the on-ramp, and he was in the carpool lane of the ramp. Do these count as part of the HOV/Diamond lanes or not?

THe Civic Hybrid is on a three month wait (I am told by the local dealer). Two things: First, any advice on how to get one sooner, and second, what are the chances that California is out of stickers come April? Thanks

I just found out a couple interesting things to share with anybody who doesn't already know:

1.) there are apprx 25,000 "stickers" available (according to the ARB this morning 1/13/2006)

2.) don't submit your application UNTIL you have your license plate number! The ARB said DMW ignores requests without the license plate.

3.) the sticker goes with the car so if you sell it, the new owner will have the HOV rights (hmmm, interesting ... might make your car a little more valuable if they don't issue anymore decals AND renew the issue in 2008) - who said used cars don't retain good resale value!

one last little nugget .. who cares about the color of the stickers ... i mean, they could be pink polka dotted for all I care ... anybody who's sat in L.A. traffic as much as I have would wear the sticker on my forehead to be able to get the HOV lane in rush hour =) LOL

~Dann

I want to buy a new Pruis ONLY if I get the sticker. Is the 25,000 stickers that are left among the original 75,000 or is this a new bunch of 75,000 stickers? Also it may take 8 weeks to get a new Pruis. Should I buy panic and buy a used Pruis and get the sticker NOW and maybe transfer the sticker in the future to the new Pruis? Is anyone really sure that the sticker is or is not transferrable?

A question for California Tax Attorneys or CPAs, or anyone who has researched it: Has the IRS clarified whether folks who purchase the Prius and title it in a single member LLC or Limited Partnership, for liability reasons, can we still qualify for the Prius '06 tax credit?

If not, if we take title in our individual name, has IRS clarified how long one must hold title, I've heard one year, before one can transfer title or sell to one's LLC or LP?

CA HOV Hybrid sticker form, asks only for personal name, but business. When the Prius is titled to a small business, can the small busienss apply for the HOV Sticker?

Lastly, I'd heard that CA extends the hybrid battery warranty by 50% to 150,000 miles -- what determines qualification--
1. must car be purchased and registered in CA? or
2. can car be purchased in CA, and then registered in an adjoining state, and still qualify for the extended warranty?
--or is additional warranty based on where registered owner is a resident, not on where car is licensed?

Thanks!

Hey Valerie & Paul

Just to clarify ... the ARB confirmed that California DMV will issue 75,000 Clean Air Stickers and told me they still have apprx. 25,000 left.

As for getting one before you get your license plate ... I'll post an update when I pick up my Prius in 3 weeks. I've been getting conflicting stories about whether or not DMV will issue the decal without the license plate number. According to the ARB, DMV won't but I just saw a brand new Prius today without a license plate and they had the "precious" on their car so WTF.

See my blog at http://www.hybridcars.com/blogs/hybrid-commuter/sticker-use-may-be-restricted for a recent comment from the DMV and Caltrans about the stickers.

I from LA. Bought my car from up north when visiting over the holiday for $600 above the invoice!!

I bought my car on Jan 2. Sent in the paperwork on the 3rd. My check cleared on the 19th. Hopefully I will get my stickers soon!

As for the dealer mark-up, I did not pay over invoice at all. They had it marked up 2000, but we just refused. They also tried to give me 5000 less on my 2003 HCH trade in. That did not work either! You just have to be ready to walk out if they will not work with you!

BTW- I just love my new car!!

Just got my 2006 Prius from Symes Toyota. Loving it. Paid just sticker. Sending my sticker application in tomorrow. What the hack!

I work in Sacramento. Does Anyone know if you can go to Sacramento and apply in person or does it have to be by mail?

JR....see posts above. It looks like you have to apply by mail.

UPDATE: Stickers came today!
I just posted that last post earlier... should have waited a few hours.

Stickers came today! Low 45,000 range.
No license plate yet, just VIN, but they still cashed the check and sent the stickers!

Today is Jan 23
Car bought: Jan 2
Request for stickers mailed: Jan 3rd
DMV check cleared: Jan 19th
Stickers arrived: Jan 23rd
No license plate yet, just had the VIN number.
Sticker #: 45,XXX (low 45)

could somebody tell me how many stickers have been issued by the DMV as of today. Cause i just bought my car last sunday. I'm worried that i'm not gonna make it.

Whoops. Make that "one of the small stickers goes on the right rear bumper."

Emer,
No guarantees, but you SHOULD be OK. Mine was the low 45,XXX, just arrived yesterday. On the radio they were saying they'd reach the 50,000 point in March sometime, then have to evaulate whether to continue it to 75,000 (a direct contradiction of what the CARB lady told me 2 weeks ago BTW... she said for sure they'd go to 75,000 but all the news reports I've heard a few days ago said they would indeed assess the program once it hits 50,000 and decide whether or not to continue it to 75,000). But I think you'll be OK. I bought mine Jan 2nd and got low 45,XXX. I don't think 5,000 more sticker will have been issued in 3 weeks, and on the radio they were saying March for the 50,000 level (and it could go to 75,000, still undecided).

Larry, thanks for the advice and the great story about the 911 operator.

I'm still undecided about that front bumper sticker, but it does seem like more people are putting it on the front left bumper, driver's side. Probably it doesn't make a huge difference if all the other stickers are on in the right places. I have the other three on my Prius, and am carrying the fourth around in the glove compartment until I decide where to put it! In the unlikely event I get pulled over for not having a front sticker on, I'll just tell the poor CHP officer the whole frustrating story. Won't he/she be sorry about pulling me over! Actually, I would love to know what the CHP thinks about the sticker position, but I tried calling them to ask, and was just referred to the DMV.

Wish somebody would respond to Ben's question about whether or not there's a possible problem about using the carpool onramp lane. He saw a CHP officer pull over someone in a hybrid with the stickers who was using the carpool onramp lane.

Penelope

how long does it take to get the fastrak application approval back? i just applied last monday and waiting before i can send the application to DMV.

Larry and others, see my blog at http://www.hybridcars.com/blogs/bloglist.php?thread_id=7&month=9&year=2005 for a picture of where two of the four stickers go on a 2003/4/5 HCH. See http://www.paulburnett.com/sticker.pdf for the DMV sticker application instructions.

Dear Paul,

Not to flog a dead horse unmercifully, but you are aware that the DMV instructions about the sticker for the front bumper contradict themselves, right? The verbal instructions say, put it on the right front bumper; the diagram shows it going on the left front bumper (on your right as you face the car from in front of it).

I've about decided the left front bumper must be the correct position - based on what I've seen on most hybrids, in my driving around the last several days.

Penelope, I'm sure what the DMV _meant_ to say was "place the small stickers on the right side of each bumper _as_you_look_at_it_." - which would be the left side of the front bumper - which is what's shown in their illustration.

Emer, you just need to learn some new driving habits. One is stay at or below the speed limit, and the other is to imagine there's an egg taped to the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal. Drive with your feet on the eggs, and don't break them. Try it, and see if your mileage improves. Let us know.

About getting the best mileage: so, I'm not the only one to hallucinate the egg under the accelerator and brake pedal! (My boyfriend has been insisting that's how I drive, ever since I learned I could maximize mileage in my 2003 Prius with minimal brake and accelerator action, coasting, etc.)

I've been quite happy with the car in the three months I've owned it - with an older Prius, I didn't expect the mileage to be as good as it's been - averaging 48.5 mpg over a whole tank, combination of city and highway driving.

i just received my stickers in the mail with no instructions as to where they had to be placed on the car.
if i had not seen other cars with them and read your discussions i would have had no idea what to do.
thanks

sb

I tried everything but I'm still getting between 35 to 39mpg. Maybe there's something wrong with my new Honda Civic Hybrid. Any comment on this.
Also I saw in the newspaper this morning that the DMV had received a total of 47,000 application as of yesterday. If the limit is down from 75,000 to 50,000 stickers it is almost impossible for me to get one because I just mailed my DMV application last sunday. I got my fastrak account saturday, 8 days after i applied for it..

Actually, Yesterday I also was pulled over with my stickers on the on-ramp. The cop realized i had my stickers and sent me on my way, with the remark that these are too new for the area to fully remember them yet. I harm done. I still have tons in time and gas, even if I was stopped.

I mailed the application for the stickers with all the correct paperwork to the DMV on November 17, they cashed my check on Dec. 6 and I still don't have my stickers. Has anyone had luck contacting the special processing unit at the DMV? I've already had a run around on their main telephone #, but twice they said they just couldn't help me. Anyone else waiting this long?- doesn't seem so according to this log...

Thank you.

Honda Civic Hybrid
1/13 Bought (desperately paid dealer mark-up!)
1/14 Picked up Transponder at FasTrak (SF Office)
(already had a Fastrak account for another car)
1/14 Mailed Application
1/30 Check Cleared
2/02 Received Sticker #47270

Peter,
Yes, I got my stickers before the license plate.
Bought 1/2/06 (06 HCH, no dealer markup), sent in for sticker on 1/3/06, received them about 10 days ago. Am still waiting for my license plate, though a friend who just bought a (non-hybrid) car said it took about 6 weeks for the plates to come (only took about 3 weeks for my stickers to come).

Just called the ARB (800) 242-4450, they confirmed total of 75000 stickers will be issued.

Thanks you very much Peter for getting the correct info vs a salesperson (conflict of interest)

N.D., see my blog at http://www.hybridcars.com/blogs/bloglist.php?thread_id=7&month=9&year=2005 for a picture of where two of the four stickers go on a 2003/4/5 HCH. See http://www.paulburnett.com/sticker.pdf for the DMV sticker application instructions. (Sorry for the epeat posting, if anybody notices [grin].)

UPDATE!!! Bought my HCH on 1/16/06. Thanks to Fred I didn't need to wait at all (and only paid MSRP, nothing over). Here are my sticker details:

Bought car on Jan 16
Mailed application for stickers Jan. 17
Checked cleared Feb 2nd
Stickers arrived Feb. 4th (18 days)
Sticker number around 45650

On the application I wrote Temporary (Thanks again Fred) for license plate number. Filled it out on line and it automatically filled out top and bottom copy, so I sent them both in.

Ben, pretty courageous on the on-ramp lane, going ahead though you weren't 100% sure. I hope you're right because I'm going to try. it.

Last, we have car pool parking spaces at work and I am going to make a pitch to our facilities to let me park in these premium spaces. Would encourage others to try as well.

Got my stickers today!!! I sent the application in on January 16th....check cleared on the 2nd or 3rd of February...got the stickers on the 6th. I can't wait to travel the 55! Also....sticker number is 47390. Good luck...looks like they are starting to get close to the 50,000.

Do Money Orders Speed the HOV Application process
or do they not wait for checks to clear?

Thanks

Mailed application 20 Jan. Check cashed on 31 Jan and stickers arrived 8 Feb 47,5xx. Carpool lane was a breeze for the wife.

Good luck to the rest of you and I'm betting they'll go to 75,000 without a problem because if they were going to stop at 50K we'd know by now.

You know, the stickers ARE only for less than two years left. The law will NOT auto-rewnew, it will expire. It will only be extended if lawmakers decide to extend it (it will not renew automatically). The law expires the end of 2007 (Jan 1 2008 to be technical, but basically, it's only good through the end of this year and next year).

Yes the stickers are nice. Yes, I got mine. But I wouldn't pay through the nose for just two years. They will expire, then it'll be back to normal lanes (and that's if they don't get recinded beforehand). Remember, they can be recinded at any time if it's deemed the carpool lanes are too clogged.

What I expect though, is that they will last the 2 years, then not be renewed. If you're really into using the carpool lane, I suggest getting a natural gas civic. I say this as a new owner of a normal Civic Hybrid. I love the car. But while the stickers are a nice perk, they are just that -- an extra. Not something to pay through the nose for (I paid MSRP only, in Jan, though I didn't want Navi). If the stickers were long-term (as the natural gas one will be) it might be different, but for something that will run out the end of next year, don't go overboard :)

Someone at CARB told me a while back the purpose of the law was to encourage people to buy the latest, cutting-edge cars (vis-a-vis emissions and fuel savings). In 2 years, hybrids will be everyday cars, not cutting edge, and if a new law is passed, my guess (and that voiced by the CARB guy) would be that it would be aimed not at hybrids but at what is on the cutting-edge then. Right now hybrids are becoming mainstream (good). By summer you'll see hybrid Camrys flooding out (not for the carpool lane, but my point is that hybrids won't be anything special by the time the law is set to expire).

However don't let that distract you from the car. The 06 HCH is a great car (as is the Prius). I love my new 06 HCH.

I got a 2005 Civic Hybrid this weekend and sent my sticker application in today 2/13

Will I get stickers for sure? any predictions? how about timing?

Are they really cutting off at 50K?

How can you guys complain bout the way that they look when you are flying by all of the stop and go traffic?

David, it looks like you'll be able to get your stickers: "Hybrid owners receive a breakCARPOOL ACCESS STICKERS STILL AVAILABLE FROM DMV - Anxious hybrid car owners wanting a green light to zip along solo in the carpool lane, relax. Those coveted yellow stickers are still available, and probably will be for several more months." Story in today's (February 13 2006) San Jose Mercury News at: http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/local/13859624.htm

Paul,
When reading through the line. The reports said "When 50,000 have been mailed out, Caltrans is required to evaluate the impact those extra cars are having on traffic in the carpool lane. The milestone could be reached within a week or so.".

Does any one know what is the evaluation process, would DMV stop issuing stickers during the evaluation until the decision is made?

i think david is right, cause i was reading the article, and it says they will issue the stickers eventhough it reach the 50,000 cap. I think they will start the evaluation when it reach the 50,000 cap, but they will still issue stickers. When caltrans finds out that it jamming the hov, they will stop issuing the stickers. So for now they will continue to issue the stickers... i think =) , cause i just sent my app. on feb. 1 =( hopefully i get em soon. lets cross our fingers

Does the special processing unit ever answer their phone? I have been on hold for 2 hours.

I put a deposit down on a Prius at Capitol Toyota in San Jose on 11/13/2005; I was told the wait would be six to eight weeks, and that it would be a 2006. After eight weeks I had not heard from the salesman, so I called him, and he said I should be getting one soon. On January 23rd I received an e-mail from the salesman stating that production of the Prius had been curtailed, and that I would have to wait another six to eight weeks. Fearing that the HOV lane stickers might be gone by then, I decided to look out of state to see what I could find. I called almost all of the dealerships in Phoenix, and managed to find one that had a silver 2006 package 6 available (if I had been willing to take a package 7 with the NAV system, I could have obtained one in Reno). I flew down to Phoenix on 1/26 and picked it up. I paid $28970 out the door.
One the way back home, I stopped at the DMV in Blythe CA (almost empty and no waiting in line) to see about getting the car registered in California. They started the paperwork and did the vehicle inspection (the woman who inspected it had never seen a hybrid before and didn't know how to classify it, for the record the fuel type is “Q”), but said I needed the Arizona title or a Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO), and a smog check. I had been warned by a friend to expect the smog check requirement on any car purchased out of state. I told the DMV woman that it didn't make sense to me, but she insisted that it was required. She collected $319 from me, making the cost $29289, not counting the $180 ticket on Southwest Airlines.
When I got back to San Jose, I went to a local smog place. They said that they couldn't smog check a Prius, but maybe the test only place next door could. The guy at the test only place told me to call the smog referee and talk to them. The smog referee told me that since the Prius was exempt from smog checks, I didn't need one to get the registration.
Once my check to the Toyota dealer cleared the bank, they issued an MCO and sent it to me overnight. I went to the local DMV on 2/2/2006 and waited 45 minutes see someone. I explained the smog check issue to the clerk, but she insisted that I needed one on any car from out of state. She went ahead and entered the information from the MCO, and lo and behold, found out that I didn't need a smog check. She claimed it was because I had an MCO and not an out of state title; I decided not to argue. She began to give me a hard time about the odometer statement that the dealer gave to me, but her supervisor told her it was acceptable. At that point she gave me the license plates for the Prius.
That afternoon I drove to SF to get the Hybrid FasTrak transponder. I put the required paperwork, including the license plate number, and a check for $8 in the mail to the DMV on 2/3/2006. I am eagerly awaiting my stickers, but the check had not cleared as of 2/17/2006, so I know from the posts here I have at least a week more to wait.

1. I buy my toyoto prius at toyoto sunnyvale
some dealer don't have waiting list. you can check the craigslist or make a phone call. the salemen in that kind of dealer compete to sell the car first.

2. I mailed my 8$ check at jan 13. check cashed at jan 27. sticker arrived at feb-12.

JJ,

I went to my local Honda dealer in San Jose, and was also told there would be a $5K dealer mark-up on the HCH, making it from $23,900 to $28,900. I told the salesperson I was unhappy with this type of price gouging, and he responded that it was simply a matter of supply and demand.

It's difficult to justify a hybrid when all the gas savings and tax incentives go to the dealer instead of the consumer, with this type of mark-up. My other concern is what the resale value of the car is going to be 5 years down the road, after we've paid a $5K mark-up over MSRP. I don't think Kelly Blue Book is going to care that we were foolish and paid more than list for this vehicle.

Nonetheless, three days after I visited the Honda dealer, I received a call that 6 new hybrids had come in to the dealership that day. Within 5 hours (from the time I got the call, until the time I was able to get there right after work), all 6 had been sold, and apparantly, one that had been previously held by deposit was sold to someone over the phone 300 miles away. The sales staff were incredibly nervous, probably never/rarely having to deal with this type of situation. I overheard one customer trying to negotiate with the dealer over the price of a hybrid, without any luck. The cavalier attitude, is "this is what we're going to charge you--take it or leave it--cause we have one hundred people in line right behind you, so stop you're whining or get out of the way". There's already a $4K mark-up on the HCH over the standard Civic Hybrid, so to add another $5K seems just plain ridiculous. But, in this frenzy, people are willing to do just about anything--on both sides.

With carpool stickers running out, I doubt the frenzy will end until the last incentive has run dry.--RJG

We refused to pay markup on our Prius so did what someone in November or so suggested on one of these boards:

Went to toyota.com
put in requests to 28 or so dealers for what we wanted, in Southern Cal, Phoenix and Vegas.

Waited for the emails from the dealerships.
Responded to the emails that we wouldn't pay a dime above MSRP, and wouldn't go on a wait list.

That weeded out all but 4 or so dealerships.
We were really nice to those sales persons!

Sales person called when something close to one of our 3 option package/colors choices arrived on a truck.

When our #2 choice finally came in, I rushed over and paid cash, exactly at MSRP, per written confirmation [even though I was leaving town, literally from the dealership, and couldn't take delivery for another week].

No attempt was made to try tacking on dealer markups [several Prius dealers had insisted that they always add that crap, like rims and floor mats. So I gave them the chance to do MSRP, they refused, we crossed them off our long list. ]

So, shop around, ask if they have an "internet discount" which is MSRP, and get the price confirmed in writing via email or fax, so they are obligated to honor the price, or be liable for "bait and switch,"

and wait for the call that your "truck load" as come in [and then, really, rush over because it is first come first sold, in places that don't take deposits]!

TIP:
Once the call comes, ask the sales person to "pull the keys" for "your car " until you get there.
some dealerships allow sales persons to do this, others don't, but that way another sales person can't sell it from under your contact [which happened to us twice while we were on vacation...]

It was interesting while doing the paper work at the dealership, to hear a couple walk in, who had not done the "internet sales confirmation" get quoted the markup.

And they paid it, not having done their research.

Now, if those HOV stickers would just arrive, since that's the only reason we went with the Prius rather than the 400h, for the 19 months, or whatever, until the HOV Hybrid waiver law expires....

We've already driven to Vegas twice from L.A., out of the three weekends since purchase, and it's just an amazingly gas efficient car that eases the guilt on pleasure trips!

Best of luck shopping.

You're not alone. Here's mine:

1/24: application over-nighted
2/6: check cleared
2/16: stickers received

Since your check was cleared 4 business days after mine, if you're like me, stickers should be in your mail box tomorrow.

yes - I completley agree, why are the stickers so ugly??? Such a shame they couldn't just make a small hologram style decal. Especially since when citations are issued for being in the carpool lane without passengers our without a hybrid they are issued by officers who can easily distinguish a hybrid vehicle from a standard vehicle.

Man you SUCK if you don't like the stickers don't you them its that simple quit crying like a little kid.

Application sent Jan. 25
Check cashed Feb. 16
Stickers arrived Feb. 23
#49,001 :-)

Still 25,999 stickers left.

UPDATE
Mailed DMV application on Feb 3, 2006
Checked cleared on Feb 22, 2006
Received stickers Feb 25, 2006
Sticker number 49,89x

I just ordered a 2006 Civic Hybrid w/ Navigation from Lompoc Honda. It will take 8-10 weeks to get here from Japan, but I will get the exact car that I want for not a penny over MSRP. Shop around! Don't pay the rediculous 5k mark-up that some dealers are charging, and when you find the one you want get the price in writing! For those that already have their 2006 Civic Hybrid, how do you like it? Thanks!

Hi, does anyone know if the limit on clean air stickers has increased to 75,000? If yes, do you know how many have been distributed as of today. Thank you!

Different DMV offices are inconsistent in telling folks whether or not they need their license plates before applying for the HOV.

But several of us have called and verified that CalTrans plans to issue all 75,000 decals, to answer your question. See above postings in early to mid Feb.

Now, if we all write in to our representatives to request the statute be renewed in 18 months or so when it expires....!!!

can anyone tell me what your average fuel consumption for a honda civic hybrid 2006 model is.
I'm still getting an average fuel consumption of 37mpg. Isn't it weird, it should be at least more than 40?? or is there something wrong with my engine or battery?? I tried not to step on the pedal too much.

I've heard the first couple tanks on a PRIUS will be lower until the car can adjust to your particular driving style. My first couple tanks of gas averaged 37-42 mpg.

I'm on my 4th or 5th tank of gas now and consistently get 48-52 mpg now.

Not sure if it's the same for the HCH but just remember to "look ahead" and anticpate the stops coming and don't mash down the gas pedal when accelerating.

Hope this helps!

Ooops

Sticker number 50,6XX

Paid MSRP...no mark up

Looking for mud flaps...anyone know how much they cost?

And to answer a question, I am in the San Francisco bay area

I just got my HCH last night. Sending in app for sticker today. Looks like I should be able to get one although it looks like the average wait time is one month. Can anyone give me an update on the latest number sticker they just received?

Thanks.

Ok anyone have a good guess what sticker # they will be on April 1st 2006

hey steve,
you dont need plate number to apply for the stickers. As of now i believe theyre in the 55,000 issued, which is 20,000 more to go to end issuing stickers. That means it will last 2 to 3 month to run out of stickers.

Got my HCH 3/15 (MSRP-Autowest Honda in Fremont)
Fastrack 3/16
Sent in application 3/16.
Now I wait ..............

Sent to dmv: 2/14/06
Check cashed: 2/28/06
Sticker received: 3/17/06
Sticker num: 51,3xx

I bought my Prius on 3/17/06 and sent all the info into DMV on the same day...fingers crossed, will update everyone once I get my stickers.

I sent my paperwork to DMV on 2/22. Just rec'd (3/22) incomplete notice from DMV saying to resubmit once plate is issued. I'll call the DMV tomorrow. Any advice?

Just thought I'd add my info to the pool, I found it useful as I did all this:

3.21.06 - after an hour on the phone found a local dealer who had the exact Civic Hybrid I wanted in stock, went and bought the same day

3.22.06 - Walked into Embarcadero Fastrak and switched my transponder to a hybrid one, took 10 minutes and they were really nice.

3.23.06 - Overnighted Fastrak printout of my account (as per lady at the fastrak office), DMV application, $8 check and a very short note essentially thanking them for helping me get my stickers, a little friendliness can go a long ways.

Now I wait and hope. I added my cell number to the letter and mentioned they should call me if there's any questions, so maybe they'll call instead of just rejecting my app and mailing it back if something is out of whack.

I also thought about sending a postal money order in the hopes of expediting the process, but decided to send a check instead since there appears to be a direct correlation between "Check cleared the bank today" and "Received my stickers!" posts =)

Received today from the office of California Assemblymember Pavley:

To update you, when 50,000 stickers have been issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the bill provides that a full review will be conducted by the Department of Transportation on any traffic impacts of hybrids in carpool lanes. As of now, the DMV has issued 49,392 stickers, which means they should hit the 50,000 threshold shortly. The review should be done within 90 days.

The DMV will continue to issue stickers until it reaches the final 75,000 limit, or pending release of the findings. Drivers who have already received the HOV stickers will be allowed to use the carpool lane until January 1, 2008.

=-=-=-=-=-=-

While we've heard that the sticker #s are above 50,000 already, do we know if they started at #1?

My sticker number is in the 8000s, and I applied the day I walked in and picked up my FasTrak transponder.

Why does the application require FasTrak? I don't use the bridges when I commute up 17, 85 or 280.
Thanks, Laura

Application mailed: March 4th
Check cleared: March 21st
Stickers received : March 25th

Serial number: 53,300

Paid MSRP for a 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid, but waited 3 months.

Highly recommend getting the transponder from the office at The Embarcadero. The employees are totally inept and need close supervision.

Let's begin to work on getting California Vehicle Code Section 5205.5 extended beyond January 1, 2008!

So here's my story: went down to Toyota Sunnyvale last week because they said they had 4 2006 Prius' on the lot with the stickers already on. I went and looked, no stickers. Salesman said thay had already applied for stickers and will have them shortly. I asked about FastTrak transponders. He said I would have to apply for them myself. I told him that you had to have transponders before you could order the stickers. He went to talk to one of the managers. Manager says they understand the application procedure and physically picked up the transponders before sending in application. I say great. Looks like they have their act together. Let's make a deal. I have them include getting the stickers as part of the purchase contract. No stickers-no deal.l

I get car home and notice a chip in the windshield. It was hidden underneath one of their big stickers. After some discussion, they say they will replace the windshield at no cost to me. I ask more about the sticker and transponder and am told that I need to get my own transponder as the ones they picked up have been returned, but stickers have been ordered. Now I'm getting concerned. Did they really order the stickers or not? I have asked for copies of the application to confirm they have applied. The saga continues...

Tom, write this on the board so you will remember it:

Anything a car dealer tells you is a lie
Anything a car dealer tells you is a lie
Anything a car dealer tells you is a lie
...

Sam - thanks for your info! For those of us keeping track, with fingers crossed, while our applications are pending, can you let us know the approx number of your sticker?
thanks/nequeo

sam -Thank you for update!!! I mailed mine 3/07 should be very soon for me

Brian P., I too went to Carson Toyota and they tried to offer me a Prius (package #8) at $6K above sticker. I told them, "no thanks" and walked away. They called me several times afterwards offering to lower the premium, but I told them I wasn't willing to pay anything above sticker. One week later, after a bit of leg work, I purchased a Prius at MSRP from Toyota of Garden Grove. The lesson is obviously too late for you, but people shouldn't have to pay these outrageous premius if they are willing to do a bit of work. PS - I'm still getting calls from the other Toyota dealerships I contacted during my search who are willing to sell me the car at MSRP.

Mailed my application March 2
Check cashed March 21
Stickers received March 25

# 53251

As for sticker price..

Carson Toyota was asking $3000 over and insisted that there would only be 50,000 HOV passes - when I told them that they already have issued over 50,000 they said I was wrong and that legally the California government passed a law that prevented more than 50,000 being issued? They issisted that the manager knew this to be true and thus I was wrong.

I recieved a package #8 from Power Toyota in Irvine at MSRP and am very happy with the Car.

Grady

Has anyone mailed in after March 4th and already received stickers??

Has any had to order replacement stickers? My 2006 HCH was rearended yesterday. I am sure my bumper has to be replaced. Just wondering if anyone has had any problems with getting them replaced.

Thanx,
Rae

JM, I got my HCHII at sticker at Mel Rapton Honda in Sacramento. They had two of them, one in silver and one in mag pearl, I got the mag pearl. Both non-nav, both at sticker price. He said they'd had them for about 4 days.

I found that several dealers in Northern California have HCHII's in stock at list price, just none with nav. I couldn't justify waiting 6 to 8 weeks and paying $5k over sticker price for a nav model. There's NO way the nav system is worth a total of $6500 more than the non-nav model. NO way. You can get a really nice aftermarket nav system for way less than $2k and keep at LEAST $3.5k in your pocket.

IMO, paying over sticker price is 100% deal breaker. There's a word for that: Gouging. I'll never want something that badly.

One dealer in SoCal said "I've got a Nav model in mag pearl coming in tomorrow. I can call you one hour before it gets here, it's $5k over sticker, and if you're not here when it rolls off the truck it's gone."

Golly, thanks for the "special" treatement... "Hey everyone, I just bought a great new Civic hybrid with nav! My ass feels kinda sore, but hey, it's a great car!"

Nope.

After waiting over 3 weeks, I finally received my '06 HCH with NAVI. In reading the posts, it takes anywhere from 1-2 weeks or so to obtain the HOV stickers.

Question I have is, do I need to wait until I receive my license plates to apply for the stickers from the DMV? I can't seem to find what my license plate # will be on any of my contract info, but if anyone knows where that info is located please let me know....

THX.
-Eddie

to "pissed off",
did you apply for your transponder BEFORE submitting for your DMV sticker? that's a requirement. I bought my HCHII on 3/12 and went to SF to get the transponder on 3/14. Sent in my sticker application on 3/15. They just cashed my check on 3/28. So I'm waiting for the sticker to arrive. You don't need to have plates in order to apply (which I also happen to get on 3/28 in the mail).

sam - thank for the sticker number! looks like a good chance people applying in March/April will get theirs.
I'll post my sticker number when I get it...
neqeuo

Update:
Got my HCH 3/15 (MSRP-Autowest Honda in Fremont)
Fastrack 3/16
Sent in application 3/16.
Got letter telling me to reapply when I get plates 4/3.
:-(

Alan D - Thanks for the great advice. I called my dealer and got the license plate number from them. Now I just have to wait patiently :)

I'm so glad I found this blog. Bought my 06 HCH 2 weeks ago in Temecula $600 over msrp (no nav). Called CARB (Cal Air Resouce Board) and was told DMV must have license plate number to issue stickers. Like others here I have personally seen a couple of hybrids with the sticker with no license plate yet. I called again and informed them and they just said "uh, you need the license plate sir."

I am sitting here like a dummy waiting for my plate when it appears I could apply without it as many on here have. App is going out tomorrow 4/5/06. I also heard there were 2 DMV's that issue them in person (one in SF and one in LA) but the DMV denies any knowledge of this fact.

I have been following this blog for months and have to add my 2 cents here. Just purchased a 2006 HCH last night at San Juan Capistrano Weseloh Honda and the experience couldn't have been any better. I ordered a blue one 2 months ago but got a call from Honda yesterday that a white one had arrived and they wanted to know if I would be willing to give my blue one on order to another buyer who really wants blue. They let me think about it for 2 days. I decided not to risk not getting the stickers and bought the white one last night. They sold it to me at sticker price, as promised 2 months ago, without the $300 markup that happened to all civics last month. They are putting in leather seats for $500 under normal price, threw in the wheel locks and bought my old accord back at a great price. There was never ANY pressure from anyone at the shop and everything was up front from the very beginning. I will continue to go back there for every car we purchase as long as I live in OC. I highly recommend Weseloh Honda. Submitting my app today for the car pool stickers and will begin to play the waiting game. Thanks everyone for all the great information on the blog.

03/16/06: Priority mailed clean air sticker application
03/24/06: Check cashed
03/27/06: Recorded issue date of stickers
03/28/06: Postmark date
04/04/06: Received stickers in the mail

I applied with "Temp" written in the license plate section on the application, but when the stickers arrived, my new license plate number was recorded on the paper work. This may mean that the DMV has to have the new license plate number in their computer system prior to releasing the stickers??

I applied for stickers the day I bought my car on 3/17/06, I just received a rejection letter saying that I need m License Plate Number. Damn, the myth is true. I guess if you time it right and the DMV has everything entered you may get your stickers prior to the plate, but it's a balancing act and timing.

anybody know if I should just re-apply and pray?

Kevin, Way cool and good for you ! I think I'll do the same. What is your sticker #?

Are CA plates required to register for a sticker? I live in SF, but I'm thinking about buying a hybrid out of state. Does anybody think it'll take too long to get CA plates and register for a sticker in time?

My sticker application update:

03/07/06 - Bought 2006 Prius
03/08/06 - Sent in app without license plate number
03/31/06 - App rejected by DMV
03/31/06 - Called my Toyota dealer and got my
plate number from them. (Thanks
Alan D for the info you posted on
March 31st).
03/31/06 - Sent application again w/ plate number
04/03/06 - Check cashed by DMV
04/10/06 - Received stickers in the mail #553xx

damnit. my application got sent back. the DMV must be very inconsistent, I was told that we could submit without our license plate numbers. my application was returned stating that I needed to supply a copy of my registration card, would that be because I didn't have my license plate number on the application? do i need to give the registration card or just have my plate numbers that I will attempt to get from my dealer as others have done?
Thoughts anyone? Thanks in advance for the help out there.

Stephen -

Well it seems that the DMV keeps changing the rules as they go along. If I were you I would try to get the plate number from your dealer and submit the application again. At this point you have nothing to loose. The DMV will either accept or reject you application but at least you are doing something other than waiting for the mailman! And according to the DMV you are in for along wait. I called the DMV helpline about 3 weeks ago and they told me that I would have to wait 6-8 weeks from the time of purchase to receive my plates. I then called my dealer, got my plate number and sent in my application. Two weeks later I got my stickers in the mail. I'm glad I didn't wait because I bought my hyrid on March 1st and still no plates.

Sorry Alan, I just re-read your post and saw that it took two weeks.

Had to apply twice after getting 1st one rejected for no plates.Second time it only took 8 days and I received stickers April 4th # 55,700 give or take a few numbers. Good luck everyone about 60-90 days left.

Update:
Got my HCH 3/15 (MSRP-Autowest Honda in Fremont)
Fastrack 3/16
Sent in application 3/16.
Got letter telling me to reapply when I get plates 4/3.
Reapplied without license plate numbers on 4/9 (I figured car has to be in computer by now.)
Check cashed 4/13. I still do not have plates.