The cash for clunkers program was a strategic incentive program passed by the Congress. The program was a part of Bill H.R. 2463 and was signed by President Obama. This incentive plan aimed at reviving the automobile industry and the overall economy by boosting new car sales. Additionally it also aimed at lowering the pollution levels by taking the old cars off road and replacing them by modern vehicles with reduced emissions.

The owners of used cars are encouraged to swap their present clunkers at an automobile dealership for a savings voucher that can be used on purchase of a new, better fuel efficient automobile.

Familiarity with certain rules and requirements are essential for participation in the cash for clunkers program. Some of these are:

• For your car to qualify to be swapped with a brand new one, it must be less than 25 years.

• The car should be absolutely in a drivable condition when you finally bring it to the dealer.

• Registration of the vehicle as well as auto insurance should be in your name for the past period of at least a year.

• You also must get the documented proofs with regard to registration and insurance.

• You must also ensure that the title does not have any issues like liens attached to it. You must get those issues cleared before bringing the car to the dealer and initiating the swapping process.

• Your clunker should be giving a mileage of 18 miles every gallon. The estimation of mileage is given by the EPA combined MPG."

• You can be eligible to participate in the cash for clunkers program and take credit vouchers for $3,500 to $4,500 on either purchase or lease with regard to a new car. When you are going for lease, a 60 months lease period is the minimum criterion. "New car" refer to those which are untitled and can be a make of 2008, 2009, or 2010.

• When the value of your car is higher than $4,500, no incentive is provided to take part in the cash for clunkers program. In this case you may apply for factory credits.

• You need to provide the appropriate information relating to the title, insurance and registration to the particular dealer.

• After the signing off, it is now the responsibility of the dealer to take the deal forward.

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) ensures that all the requirements are properly met. Within a period of ten days or so the dealer receives the credit voucher relating to the buyer's recent purchase or lease.

The cash for clunkers program is a simple and effective stimulus program aimed for both the benefit of the consumers as well as the economy. By simply adhering to the few straight forward and simple steps mentioned above, you will become a proud owner of a brand new car. Not only this, you will enjoy rebate related to your new purchase as well as do immense good for the environment.