Because of the evolving nature of High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) systems and the emergence of varied practices, it is important to identify alternatives and discuss their applicability. The HOV Systems Manual reflects real-world experiences, addresses all current issues, and promotes consistency and effectiveness in future applications. Experience gained in the development and application of the manual also served to identify needs for future research on HOV systems.

Previously, there were formal and informal guidelines and practices available for various aspects of systems. These guidelines and practices needed to be integrated into a comprehensive, detailed manual. The manual provides direction to both transit and highway professionals in planning, designing, implementing, operating, marketing, and enforcing HOV systems. The manual is also useful to those charged with achieving air-quality and congestion-management goals.

Texas A&M Research Foundation and others developed a comprehensive and detailed HOV systems manual that incorporated current guidelines and practices. The manual covers all types of HOV facilities and includes, but is not limited to, the following: policy considerations, planning, design, operation and enforcement, support facilities and services, implementation considerations, marketing, and evaluation. The manual presents a systematic process that emphasizes coordinated development of all elements of the HOV system. Two publications are available: NCHRP Report 413, "Development of an HOV Systems Manual," which describes the research effort, and the manual itself, NCHRP Report 414, "HOV Systems Manual."