A new era in commuting begins in California on Oct. 1 when solo drivers in electric and hybrid cars will no longer be allowed to use the state’s carpool lanes — a perk that’s been in place for nearly two decades.

The change affects more than half a million decal holders statewide, who could cruise past traffic in High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes. With 1,171 carpool lane-miles across California — 803 in the south and 366 in the north — the impact could be felt most acutely in regions like Los Angeles and the Bay Area, where congestion is a daily grind.

Here's what to know about California's new carpool lane rules.

What to know about the Clean Air Vehicle program work?

The Clean Air Vehicle Decal program , which allowed solo EV drivers to use carpool lanes, officially expired

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