Oregon Reopens Popular EV Rebate Program

Last week, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality officially reopened the Clean Vehicle Rebate Program. The program is back with a renewed focus on helping more people afford electric vehicles, especially those from low- to moderate-income households.

This year’s program includes three rebate options. Two of them are aimed at individuals and families with household incomes between $51,000 and $251,000. These residents can qualify for the New Charge Ahead Rebate, which provides up to $7,500 back when purchasing or leasing a new qualified battery electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle. They may also be eligible for the Used Charge Ahead Rebate, which offers $5,000 for buying or leasing a pre-owned electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle.

There is also a Standard Rebate available to all income levels. This rebate provides up to $2,500 for the purchase or lease of a new electric vehicle priced under $50,000. It also applies to qualified zero-emission motorcycles. However, only one rebate can be claimed per vehicle.

The program has been a popular tool for encouraging electric vehicle adoption in Oregon. Since its launch in late 2018, it has helped put more than 112,000 zero-emission vehicles on the road and has issued close to $100 million in rebates. Funding for the program comes from Oregon’s Vehicle Privilege Tax, which guarantees at least $12 million annually or 45 percent of total collections, whichever is greater. Due to overwhelming demand, the rebate fund has run dry in previous years, forcing the state to pause the program soon after reopening.

This year, Oregon is getting a boost from federal funding, with an additional $31 million allocated specifically for Charge Ahead rebates. The DEQ says state funding will continue to support the Standard Rebate, while federal dollars will expand access to rebates for low- to moderate-income residents.

The department recommends that anyone interested in the Charge Ahead rebates pre-apply. Those who qualify may receive a voucher that can be used directly at participating dealerships during the purchase process. It’s important to note that vehicles bought before May 22, 2025, are not eligible for rebates.

There is currently no official closing date for the program, but the DEQ has promised to issue a 30-day notice before shutting it down again due to lack of funds. Applicants have six months from the date of purchase or lease to submit their rebate applications.

With increased funding and expanded options, this year’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Program is positioned to make a real impact on EV adoption across Oregon, making cleaner, more cost-effective transportation accessible to more people.