CalVans offers vanpool services specifically designed for work commutes across various occupations and higher education, serving employers and residents within designated member agency counties. If the volunteer driver or the sponsoring employer is based in California, please proceed with the Employer Application. Please note: Even if the applicant resides in one of the qualified counties listed below, if travel to a neighboring state is required, any approved out-of-county or out-of-state travel will be at the employer’s expense. Additionally, some vehicles may not be authorized for interstate travel. We strongly recommend consulting with a CalVans Transit Coordinator before making any travel arrangements.
Current CalVans JPA Member Counties
Fresno
Imperial
Madera
Merced
Monterey
San Benito
San Joaquin
Santa Barbara
Santa Cruz
Stanislaus
Tulare
Ventura
Yuma County is supported only during the winter/spring growing season
Vanpools may travel to Yuma, if they start their commute in California and return daily.
Employer Application & Acknowledgments
CalVans operates as a self-funded Joint Powers Authority, bearing all expenses associated with purchasing, maintaining, fueling, and insuring its vehicles, regardless of how many miles vehicles travel.
When in use, rider fares collected during vehicle use reflect the direct cost of delivering the transportation service. The cost of operating the vanpool in 2025/2026 is $1.55 per mile. This rate reflects current expenses and is subject to change based on fluctuations in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CalVans Passenger and Transit Voucher (PTV) is a qualified transportation benefit recognized under IRS Code Section 132(f), which allows employers to subsidize the commuting costs of their employees when using a commuter highway vehicle for travel between their residence and workplace.
When a vehicle is requested by an employer but not actively used to transport passengers, it may still generate costs during periods of inactivity exceeding 14 calendar days. CalVans will impose an underutilization fee when vehicles are not in use, but remain in the possession of the employer. For employers transferring vehicles to different regions with passengers or equipment, the rate per mile fare will apply.
As the employer requesting CalVans vanpool service on behalf of your employees, you are required to acknowledge and accept the policies outlined in the Employer Application. Submission of the application constitutes agreement to the terms and conditions set forth in the official agreement between your organization and CalVans.
Before completing the online application, please take the following steps:
