Back in December, we covered the overwhelming response to California’s new Ebike Voucher Project. In case you missed that piece, over 100,000 eager applicants flooded the system within minutes of launch—crashing the website and filling the 1,500 voucher cap in just 45 minutes.
Now, with that initial wave behind us, many Californians are left wondering: what happens next?
Round Two: Key Details
- Application Date & Time: April 29, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM PDT.
- Number of Vouchers Available: 1,000 vouchers, each worth up to $2,000.
- Application Process: Applicants must enter the online waiting room between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. At 6:00 PM, all individuals in the waiting room will be placed in a randomized queue to access the application portal.
The incentive offers up to $2,000 toward a qualifying electric bike, depending on your income level and eligibility.
Who Can Apply?
Just like the first round, the program is designed for low-income and disadvantaged communities. Eligibility is tied to household income (under 300% of the Federal Poverty Level), California residency, and being 18 or older. Priority is given to applicants earning 225% or less of the FPL, with the full incentive maxing out at $2,000.
If you qualify, don’t wait until the last minute. Sign up for updates directly from the program at ebikeincentives.org so you can jump in as soon as the application window opens.
Lessons from Round One of the Ebike Voucher Program
If there’s one takeaway from the first round, it’s this: act fast. With such limited availability, even qualified applicants will need to move quickly once the next window opens.
What to Expect
The application process includes:
- Join the Waiting Room: On April 29, 2025, between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM PDT, visit ebikeincentives.org to enter the virtual waiting room.
- Randomized Queue: At 6:00 PM, all individuals in the waiting room will be placed in a randomized queue. The first 1,000 applicants will be granted access to the application portal.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the application form, upload required documents, and complete mandatory educational videos on ebike safety and climate impact.
- Await Approval: Approved applicants will receive a voucher code, which must be redeemed within 45 days. A one-time 45-day extension is available upon request.
Accessibility Note
If you’re not able to apply online due to difficulty using a computer, you can also apply by mail. Contact the program administrator in advance to request a paper application. Mail-in applications will be placed in the same randomized queue as online applicants, ensuring everyone has an equal chance of receiving a voucher.
Program Funding and Future Opportunities
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has allocated $7.5 million for the Ebike Voucher Project, aiming to distribute approximately 5,000 vouchers through multiple application windows. The April 29 window is the second in this series, with additional opportunities expected in the coming months.
Given the high demand observed during the initial launch, it’s advisable for interested applicants to prepare in advance and stay informed about future application windows.
Final Thoughts on the Ebike Voucher Program
If you’re a California resident seeking an affordable, eco-friendly transportation option, the Ebike Voucher Program offers a valuable opportunity. Mark your calendar for April 29, 2025, and ensure you enter the waiting room between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM PDT to participate in the upcoming application window.
For more information and to prepare your application, visit ebikeincentives.org. Also, CalBike is hosting a free webinar on April 22 at noon to walk people through the process and answer questions.