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Rules of the Road for Carpool Lanes

Violating the rules of carpool lanes can bring a hefty $271 fine, so it’s wise to know the standard policies:

• Carpool lanes in Southern California require two or more people per vehicle (with a few exceptions, listed below).

• Only enter and exit a carpool lane at areas designated with signs and a broken double yellow or white line. It’s against the law to cross the double yellow lines of a carpool lane—you can be ticketed.

• Yes, children count as carpool partners.

• Motorcyclists can ride alone in carpool lanes.

• Zero-emission vehicles don’t need to meet minimum passenger requirements; however, proper identification in the form of a sticker from the DMV is required. Legislation is pending that would allow a certain number of hybrid vehicles solo access to carpool lanes as well.

• Always check posted signs. Southland carpool lanes require at least two people in a car, except the El Monte Busway, which requires three during peak hours (6-9 a.m. and 4-7 p.m.).

• Passenger requirements are in effect for Southern California’s carpool lanes 24 hours a day. The exception: Route 14, which is open to solo drivers in off-peak hours.

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