Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP) – Clean Mobility for California Families
At Victory Toyota in Seaside, California, we believe clean transportation should be accessible to more drivers – not just those with perfect credit or large down payments. That’s why we’re proud to share information about the Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP), a statewide initiative that helps eligible Californians purchase or lease clean-air vehicles while also offering financial coaching and protections against predatory lending.
DCAP is funded through the California Air Resources Board and administered by the Community Housing Development Corporation. The program supports low-income and disadvantaged communities by helping drivers overcome common financial barriers to owning dependable transportation — while advancing cleaner air and climate goals across the state.
What Does the Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP) Cover?
DCAP provides support to qualified applicants through:
- Down payment assistance and clean vehicle incentives for vehicles like the 2026 Toyota BZ
- Financial counseling and coaching
- Loan support through vetted lenders
- Guidance for people facing credit or financial challenges
- Support that promotes financial stability and clean mobility access
Eligible Clean-Air Vehicles Through DCAP
Clean-air vehicles may include eligible battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, fuel cell electric vehicles, and other qualified low-emission options.
How the DCAP Application and Fund Reservation Process Works
The Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP) follows a need-based application process with a structured fund reservation system designed to prioritize support for income-qualified Californians. After an application is completed and submitted, DCAP reviews eligibility and need, then places applicants into tiers as part of its statewide prioritization process. Because funding is limited, applicants should understand that funds are not automatically reserved at submission – DCAP states funds are reserved only once a participant moves into the Counseling Review stage, when funding is officially set aside.
What is a need-based application process and funds reservation?
It’s the process of evaluating an applicant’s need and allocating available funds accordingly. Once your DCAP application is complete and submitted, it is processed and sorted into one of three tiers. Funds are reserved when a participant moves into Counseling Review.
DCAP Income Tiers Explained
Tier 1 (Highest Priority):
Income-qualified participants who live in a disadvantaged or low-income community as defined by CalEnviroScreen 4.0. Tier 1 stays open as long as funding remains available.
Tier 2 (Second Priority):
Income-qualified California residents below 225% of the Federal Poverty Level, those needing credit repair, or those receiving certain categorically eligible income sources (such as SSI, Medicaid, CalWORKs, etc.). Tier 2 is closed to new applicants when 25% of grant funds remain.
Tier 3:
Income-qualified California residents below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. Tier 3 closes when 50% of grant funds remain.
When do Tiers Close?
DCAP confirms that funds will close by tiers as funding is spent or committed:
- Tier 3 closes when 50% of funds remain
- Tier 2 closes when 25% of funds remain
- Tier 1 closes when all funds have been exhausted
Is There a DCAP Reservation List or Waitlist?
No. Due to limited funding, DCAP does not maintain a reservation list after funds are exhausted. DCAP encourages applicants to explore other incentives and subscribe to program updates.
How Victory Toyota in Seaside Helps DCAP-Eligible Buyers
Our team at Victory Toyota can help you explore clean vehicle options and understand how to start your process through DCAP resources. If you’re looking for a cleaner, more affordable driving solution in Monterey County and the Central Coast, we’re here to help you take the next step with financing or trade ins with confidence . Shop an Electric Vehicle today.
Explore DCAP-Eligible Electric and Hybrid Vehicles