How to Apply to the Accelerated Vehicle Retirement Program
by Chase Hasbrouck
The Voluntary Accelerated Vehicle Retirement (VAVR) Program is a California initiative designed to remove older cars from active service, to improve California air quality. California provides monetary incentives to selected California residents to encourage participation in the VAVR Program. These programs are administered by local air quality districts, which set the requirements for claiming the incentive.
Step 1
Verify that your vehicle has a current "Smog Check" test certificate. If not, visit the California Bureau of Automotive Repair's Smog Check testing station list (see Resources) to find a nearby station to perform the test. If your vehicle passes, go to Step 2. If it fails, see the "Tips" section for another incentive program that may be applicable.
Step 2
Consult the California Air Resources Board website to find which Air Quality District (AQD) you fall into. AQDs currently offering incentives include Antelope Valley, Bay Area, Santa Barbara County and South Coast.
Step 3
Contact a local dismantler in your area to schedule your appointment. The largest providers of dismantling services currently are Enviromental Engineering Services and Pick-N-Pull (see Resources). The dismantler will advise you of any specific local documentation requirements; typically, you must bring a copy of your title and your registration history (available from the Department of Motor Vehicles for $5 as of 2010).
Step 4
Deliver your vehicle to the dismantler, who will take possession and arrange payment.
References
Tips
- Vehicles that have failed their "Smog Check" are eligible for a different incentive, the Consumer Assistance Program administered by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair.
- Vehicles must be in drivable condition and must have a gross vehicle weight of less than 8,500 lbs. to be eligible for the program.
Writer Bio
U.S. Army Captain Chase Hasbrouck began writing professionally in 2007. He has served overseas and has had several articles published in U.S. Army publications, such as the "Morning Calm." Hasbrouck holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Furman University.
