Arizona EV Drivers Will Soon Lose HOV Lane Privilege: What You Need to Know

A major change is coming for electric vehicle (EV) owners in Arizona—and it’s likely to impact daily commutes across the state. Starting October 1, 2025, drivers of EVs and other alternative-fuel vehicles will no longer be allowed to use the HOV lane unless they meet the standard occupancy requirements.

For years, Arizona has granted an incentive to electric and alternative-fuel vehicle owners: the ability to use High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes, even with just one person in the car. The goal was to promote cleaner transportation and ease adoption of fuel-efficient technology. But that privilege is coming to an end.

Under a federal law known as 23 U.S.C. § 166, states are allowed to let alternative-fuel vehicles use HOV lanes—but only under a temporary exemption. That exemption is set to expire nationwide on September 30, 2025, unless renewed by Congress. Arizona has confirmed it will follow the federal timeline.

That means:

“Beginning October 1, 2025, only vehicles carrying the minimum required number of occupants (typically two or more) will be allowed in HOV lanes, regardless of fuel type,” according to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT).

The change applies to all vehicles with Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) plates, including:

• Battery electric vehicles (EVs)

• Plug-in hybrids

• Compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles

• Hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles

• Propane-fueled vehicles

It does not affect carpoolers or multi-occupant vehicles that already qualify for HOV access.

As EV adoption grows rapidly, federal and state governments are beginning to phase out perks that once helped jumpstart the market.

• Traffic congestion is another factor. With more EVs on the road, HOV lanes in urban areas like Phoenix and Tempe are getting crowded—defeating their original purpose.

• Some officials argue the policy is no longer equitable as EVs become mainstream and accessible to more drivers.

ADOT encourages drivers to monitor updates at azdot.gov/HOVRule. The end of Arizona’s HOV access for solo EVs marks a shift in how the state (and country) views EVs—not as niche innovations, but as the new norm. While the transition may frustrate some drivers, it reflects a broader reality: EVs are no longer an exception to the rules. If you're an EV owner in Arizona, the countdown is on. Start preparing now—and stay informed to avoid a costly mistake come October 2025.