How to Get a Free E-Bike Through Replace Your Ride: Step-by-Step

Getting a free e-bike through the Replace Your Ride program is simpler than most people think. This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process — from checking if you qualify to riding your new e-bike.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before anything else, make sure you meet the basic requirements:

• Location: You must live in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, or San Bernardino County (the South Coast AQMD jurisdiction)
• Vehicle: You must own a registered vehicle that is model year 2010 or older
• Income: Your household income must be at or below 300% of the federal poverty level
• Registration: The vehicle title must have been in your name for at least 12 months, and the vehicle must have been owned and operated in California for at least 24 months

Not sure if you qualify? Use our eligibility checker — it takes less than 60 seconds.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Once you know you're eligible, you'll need:

• Valid California driver's license or ID
• Current vehicle registration
• Proof of income (tax return, pay stubs, or benefit statements)
• Proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement)

Step 3: Apply Through the Program

Visit the South Coast AQMD Replace Your Ride portal to submit your application. The SCAQMD team will review your documents and assign you a case manager.

Pro tip: Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Program funding can fluctuate, so apply as soon as you have your documents ready.

Step 4: Get Approved and Choose Your Retailer

Once approved, you'll receive a voucher. This is where 3KtoGO comes in. As a participating retailer, we help you:

• Choose the right e-bike for your needs and lifestyle
• Bundle your bike with a helmet and accessories
• Handle all the voucher paperwork

Step 5: Choose Your E-Bike

Browse our curated collection of voucher-eligible e-bikes. Every bike in our collection is:

• UL 2849 safety certified (required by the program)
• Available in multiple styles: commuter, cargo, fat tire, foldable
• From trusted brands like Rad Power Bikes, HAOQI, and Cyberbike

Not sure which bike is right for you? Call us at 760.333.0207 — we'll help you find the perfect fit based on your commute, terrain, and riding style.

Step 6: We Deliver to Your Door

This is the 3KtoGO difference. We don't ship your bike in a box for you to figure out. We:

• Fully assemble your e-bike at our Costa Mesa location
• Deliver it directly to your front door
• Give you a 20-minute riding tutorial so you feel confident from day one
• Install any included accessories (basket, lights, lock, etc.)

Step 7: Ride!

That's it. Your old vehicle gets retired (helping improve air quality), and you have a brand-new, fully assembled e-bike ready to ride.

Common Questions

How long does the process take? From application to delivery, most participants receive their e-bike within 4-8 weeks, depending on program volume.

Is there really no cost to me? For qualifying participants, the voucher covers the full cost of the e-bike, helmet, assembly, and delivery. There is no out-of-pocket cost.

What happens to my old car? The vehicle is scrapped through an authorized dismantler as part of the program's air quality improvement mission.

Ready to get started? Check your eligibility now or call us at 760.333.0207.