What California has announced

On July 13, 2026, California announced the MyFirstEV program as part of the 2026–27 state budget. The state says it will provide point-of-sale savings to Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle: $3,500 for a qualifying new EV and $1,750 for a qualifying used EV.

The program is expected to begin later in summer 2026. That means buyers should distinguish confirmed headline terms from implementation details that have not yet been published. Dealer participation, documentation, application timing, vehicle eligibility, tax treatment, and incentive stacking should all be verified when the program becomes operational.

Seven checks to make before signing

01

Confirm that you are a first-time ZEV buyer

California says the program will be open to Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle. Until administrators publish the final process, ask what proof will be required and do not rely on a salesperson’s verbal assurance that you qualify.

02

Use the correct price cap

The announcement describes $3,500 off a new electric vehicle with an MSRP up to $50,000 and $1,750 off a used electric vehicle sold for up to $25,000. MSRP, advertised price, selling price, and out-the-door price are different numbers. Have the dealer identify which number controls eligibility.

03

Verify that the program is actually live

The state announced a launch later in summer 2026. An announcement is not the same as an operational application. Before signing, confirm the current launch status through California’s official sources and ask whether the dealer is authorized to apply the incentive that day.

04

Ask whether the dealer and automaker are participating

The announced funding includes a state investment intended to be matched by participating automakers. Final participation and transaction procedures matter. Ask the dealer to identify the program, participating manufacturer, and exact amount in writing.

05

Separate the public rebate from the dealer discount

A public incentive should not become an unnamed discount inside the selling price. Request an itemized quote showing MSRP or list price, dealer discount, MyFirstEV amount, other incentives, trade allowance, cash down, taxes, fees, add-ons, and final out-the-door price on separate lines.

06

Check whether add-ons erase the savings

A protection package, service contract, accessory bundle, or finance-office product can consume a $1,750 or $3,500 incentive quickly. Compare the quote before and after the rebate and decline optional products you do not want before discussing the monthly payment.

07

Match the final contract to the written quote

Before signing, compare every promised discount, incentive, fee, add-on, vehicle feature, and financing term against the final contract. If the documents do not match, pause the transaction and resolve the difference first.

The quote should show every dollar separately

Ask the dealer for a written buyer’s order or itemized quote containing:

  • MSRP or used-vehicle list price
  • Negotiated selling price
  • Dealer discount
  • MyFirstEV incentive
  • Other state, regional, utility, or manufacturer incentives
  • Trade-in value and remaining loan payoff
  • Taxes, registration, documentation fees, and other charges
  • Every optional add-on or finance-office product
  • Final out-the-door price

Do not evaluate the deal only through the monthly payment. Loan length, interest rate, cash down, and optional products can make a lower payment more expensive overall.

Take the worksheet to the dealership

Audit the quote before the finance office.

The California EV Buyer Protection Kit separates the selling price, public incentives, dealer discounts, add-ons, financing, and written promises so you can compare the quote with the final contract.

Get the complete kit — $19

Official sources and further reading

Last reviewed July 14, 2026. Program rules can change. Confirm current information with the administering agency and participating dealer. Educational information only; not legal, tax, or financial advice.