Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs)

Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs) are vehicles powered by non-traditional fuel sources such as electricity, hydrogen, or biofuels. In Georgia, this often includes battery-electric vehicles (EVs) that display state-issued AFV license plates.​

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Federal Exemption Expiration

The federal exemption allowing Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs) to use High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) and High Occupancy Toll (HOT) lanes regardless of passenger count expired on September 30, 2025. This exemption previously permitted AFVs, including fully electric vehicles, to access these la​nes even when driving alone and without paying tolls in HOT lanes.​

Why did the Exemption End?​

Federal law requires special access for single-occupant AFVs to end on September 30, 2025.

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Why Is the Exemption Ending?

The exemption was established under the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act of 2015, a federal initiative aimed at enhancing U.S. transportation infrastructure. However, this temporary exemption is now reaching its end date. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), federal law requires the special access for single-occupant AFVs to conclude after September 30, 2025.

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What AFV Drivers Need to Know

Alternative Fuel Vehicles with Georgia AFV plates must follow the same rules as all other vehicles regarding use of HOV and HOT lanes:​

HERO Roadway
HOV Lanes

AFVs must carry two or more occupants to legally use HOV lanes throughout Georgia. Single-occupant AFVs will no longer be permitted in these lanes.

HERO Route
​I-85 HOT Express Lanes

In order to use the I-85 Express Lanes toll ​free, AFVs must have three or more occupants including the driver. If not, the standard toll rate applies. AFV users must be registered with Peach Pass and validated through Peach Pass Verify.

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Resources


The FAST Act, enacted in 2015, was designed to guide national investment in surface transportation. It allowed states to temporarily exempt AFVs from certain HOV and HOT lane restrictions. However, this federal allowance has expired, and must now be phased out per FHWA guidelines.

Learn More

Can I still use HOV lanes if I have passengers?
Yes. As long as you meet the minimum occupancy (2+ for HOV lanes, 3+ for toll-free HOT lane use), you can continue to access those lanes.


What if I’m an EV driver without an AFV plate?
These changes apply specifically to AFVs with Georgia-issued AFV plates. However, all vehicle types will need to comply with standard lane usage rules.


What do I need to do to legally drive my AFV in the I-85 HOT Express Lanes?
AFV users must be registered with Peach Pass.