Electric vehicle (EV) owners in Georgia are facing frustration as they will lose the ability to use High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes alone starting September 2025. Despite this significant change, the state will continue to charge drivers for the Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) plates that no longer offer the same benefits.
The AFV plate has allowed drivers of qualifying low-emission vehicles to access HOV lanes since its inception. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this federal law, which began in 2005, enabled single-occupant low-emission vehicles to utilize these lanes. Georgia was among thirteen states that implemented this regulation, designating specific plates for eligible vehicles. The benefit was upheld by the FAST Act of 2015, which extended access until September 2025. However, since Congress did not approve another extension, the privilege is set to expire nationwide.
Continued Fees Despite Loss of Benefits
With the expiration of HOV lane access for solo EV drivers, Georgia has opted to maintain the fees associated with the AFV plate. Currently, drivers are required to pay an extra $35 annually for the special tag, alongside an additional $59 for a new AFV plate, plus the standard $20 yearly registration fee. As a result, the AFV plate is now categorized merely as another specialty plate by the Georgia Department of Revenue.
In a statement, the department noted, “The AFV plate will remain available as an optional specialty license plate for Georgia drivers. We have issued guidance to the local county tag offices, and customers who no longer wish to use the AFV plate may visit their local tag office to exchange it for a standard plate at no cost.” While drivers can switch to a regular plate without incurring additional costs, they will not receive refunds for fees already paid after the benefit ended.
Impact on Georgia’s EV Community
Despite the loss of HOV lane access, the state has reportedly collected over $212,000 in additional fees from AFV plates since the announcement. This situation leaves many EV owners feeling misled, as they are still paying for privileges that have been revoked.
As of now, EV drivers with AFV plates in Georgia should be aware that they can no longer use HOV lanes alone. They have the option to switch to a standard license plate without cost, yet the lack of refunds for previously paid fees has left many feeling dissatisfied. The frustration stems not only from the change in legislation but also from the perception that state officials continue to benefit financially from a plate that no longer serves its intended purpose.
Many drivers are calling for greater transparency regarding the fees associated with specialty plates and seeking reimbursement for what they believe is an unjust charge. The recent changes highlight the importance of reassessing the value of such plates and programs, especially as the landscape of electric vehicle legislation evolves.
