High Occupancy Vehicle

HOV lane is usually located on the inside (left) lane and is identified by signs along the freeway and white diamond symbols painted on the pavement. In Northern California, HOV lanes are only operational on Monday thru Friday during posted peak congestion hours, for example: between 6 a.m. - 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.

All other vehicles may use the lanes during off-peak hours. This is referred to as "part-time" operation. In Southern California, HOV lanes are generally separated from other lanes by a buffer zone.