Green Driver State Incentives in West Virginia

When you go green, not only do you help the planet; you also help your wallet. West Virginia's green driver incentives range from tax breaks to auto insurance discounts. Whether you drive an electric car, hybrid, or some other fuel-efficient or alternative-fuel vehicle, keep reading for perks that can save eco-friendly WV drivers time and money.

Please also note that West Virginia incentives and laws might change as green driving evolves. Also consult your local Division of Motor Vehicles office and the Alternative Fuels Data Center.

West Virginia Registration Emissions Testing for Fuel Efficient Vehicles

At this time, the Division of Motor Vehicles does not test emissions. However, as a West Virginia resident, you must register and title your vehicle through the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to drive it (or even just move it) upon a WV highway. Vehicle registration includes passing an annual safety inspection—even for those who drive low- and zero-emissions vehicles.

Still, you can learn how to keep your vehicle running as cleanly as possible. Check out our Smog & Emissions Checks section for more information.

Auto Insurance Discounts for Eco-Friendly Driving and Green Vehicles

Some West Virginia auto insurance providers offer insurance discounts for having green driving habits and/or driving a fuel-efficient vehicle. Consult your car insurance company about potential green vehicle discounts such as:

• Hybrid auto discounts.
• Alternative fuel vehicle (AFV) discounts.
• Economy car discounts.
• Low-mileage discounts.
• Pay as you drive discounts.

Auto insurance discounts vary by provider and circumstances. For example, you might receive a 10% discount on car insurance for owning or leasing a hybrid car, while maintaining low mileage can earn you up to a 30% auto insurance discount.

If your current WV auto insurance carrier doesn't reward eco-friendly driving, find one that does. Compare auto insurance rates online and save some green for going green.

WV Tax Incentives for Green Drivers

West Virginia values the environment. That's why it offers WV taxpayers a break for buying or converting an alternative fuel vehicle. Note that the savings don't end at the state level. The federal government also offers considerable tax credits for eco-friendly vehicles. Keep reading for more on both types of tax incentives.

Navigating through the tax incentives can be tricky. Refer to a tax professional or your local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center if you get stuck.

NOTE: You can refer to West Virginia Code 11-6D for more information about the following alternative fuel vehicle tax information, as well as the West Virginia Department of Revenue.

Until December 31, 2017, you can take advantage of an income tax credit if you construct or buy (and install) a qualifying alternative fuel infrastructure. This includes natural gas and propane.

Federal Tax Credits for Fuel-Efficient Vehicle Owners

In addition to the West Virginia-specific incentives listed above, there are several federal tax credits for fuel-efficient vehicle owners. For example, you might qualify for tax credits offered by the IRS if you own:

• Electric cars (EV)s).
• Hybrids.
• Plug-in hybrids (PEVs).
• Diesels.
• Alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs).

To find out if you're eligible to save even more money, refer to the Tax Incentive Information Center at fueleconomy.gov.

WV Weight Limit Increase for Idle Reduction Technology

Because adding idle reduction technology to a vehicle also adds considerable weight, West Virginia allows qualified vehicles to exceed state gross and axle weight limits. Refer to West Virginia Code 17C-13A-4 if you've outfitted your vehicle with approved idle-reduction technology.

NOTE: Generally, idle-reduction equipment is for heavy-duty trucks, busses, and other large vehicles that use more than 2 billion gallons of fuel annually while idling.

West Virginia Rebates for Alternative Fuel Vehicle Owners

West Virginia reimburses some owners and operators for using alternative fuel and alternative fuel vehicles.

Alternative Fuel School Bus Incentive

The West Virginia Department of Education will issue a reimbursement to any county that uses compressed natural gas (CNG) for any portion of its school bus fleet. This reimbursement is to help offset maintenance, operation, and other costs associated with using those busses.

Counties qualifying for this allowance must submit a plan to the Department of Education. This plan must outline future use of alternative fuel school buses. Refer to West Virginia Code 18-9A-7 and the Alternative Fuels Data Center for more information.