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 will expire at 11:59pm on September 29, 2025. This exemption previously permitted AFVs, including fully electric vehicles, to access these lanes even when driving alone and without paying tolls in HOT lanes.​

Why Is the Exemption Ending?​

Federal law requires special access for single-occupant AFVs to end after September 29, 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

Starting midnight on September 30, 2025, Alternative Fuel Vehicles with Georgia AFV plates will need to 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. If fewer than three passengers are in the vehicle, the driver must pay the standard toll rate. AFV users must be registered with Peach Pass and validated through Peach Pass Verify.

Learn More

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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 will sunset on September 30, 2025, 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 beginning September 30, 2025.


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 and validated through Peach Pass Verify.