The Province of B.C. is making it easier for electric-vehicle (EV) drivers to access high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, reflecting the popularity of electric vehicles in B.C.

Starting Aug. 15, 2025, drivers of eligible plug-in hybrid or battery-electric vehicles will no longer need to display an OK decal to use designated HOV lanes. As of that date, access to HOV lanes for EV drivers will be indicated solely by road signs.

This update to the Electric Vehicle in High Occupancy Vehicle Lanes (EVHOV) program simplifies HOV-lane usage for EV owners and eliminates administrative wait times for decals.

Other changes include allowing eligible out-of-province vehicles and electric heavy-duty trucks to use HOV lanes where signage permits, supporting more efficient goods movement and encouraging cleaner transportation options.

Access to HOV lanes without the minimum number of passengers where signage permits will remain available to vehicles that run on an electric motor and plug in to charge. Hydrogen vehicles will no longer be eligible to use HOV lanes without meeting the minimum passenger requirement.

By removing the decal requirement, the Ministry of Transportation and Transit will save approximately $70,000 annually in administrative costs. The ministry will continue to monitor the capacity of HOV lanes in the province to ensure they remain effective for all permitted users.

Learn More:

For details about electric-vehicle access to HOV lanes, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/driving-and-cycling/traveller-information/routes-and-driving-conditions/hov-lanes/electric