Smog Inspections - California DMV (2024)

FAQs

Does California DMV require Smog Check every year? ›

A Smog Check is required every other year (biennially) as part of the vehicle registration process. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) registration renewal notice will indicate if a Smog Check is required.

Gasoline-powered vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and alternative-fuel vehicles that are model-year 1976 and newer require a Smog Check, with the following exceptions: Eight model years and newer do not require a biennial Smog Check. Four model years and newer do not require a change-of-ownership Smog Check.

Answer: The majority of smog check stations in California do not require an appointment to obtain an inspection. You may want to set up an appointment though (if the station allows) to get thorough the test faster. Time wise, the emissions inspection process in California (for 2000 and newer vehicles) is fast.

The cost of a smog check is not regulated by the state of California. The cost of a smog inspection varies between $29.95 and $69.95, depending on the smog test center and the type of smog your vehicle needs.

Smog inspections are required when you register or renew registration for a vehicle in California, but there are some exceptions. Your vehicle does not need a smog inspection if your: Gasoline-powered vehicle is a 1975 year model or older (This includes motorcycles and trailers.)

Eligible consumers may receive up to $1,200 in emissions-related repairs at a STAR test-and-repair station if their vehicle fails its biennial Smog Check inspection.

The technician who tests your car won't be passing it if there are significant leaks like coolant, oil, brake fluid or even transmission fluid. Check over and under your car for any such leaks. Many of them are inexpensive to repair, and you might even be able to do such repairs on your own.

Bring proof of vehicle registration and a form of payment to the test. If you have a Registration Renewal Notice, bring that. Otherwise, bring your current vehicle registration. This is all you need to have with you when you take your vehicle to its smog check at an authorized station.

Most DMV services can be completed without an appointment. If you must visit a DMV office, select your service below.

What cities in California do not require smog checks? ›

Zip code 90704 (Avalon or Catalina Island) is exempt from smog requirements per Health & Safety Code §44044(A). It is the only exempt zip code in Los Angeles County (19).

According to the California Smog Check Program, with a few exceptions, vehicles more than eight model years old must be smog tested every two years.

The actual smog check will usually take about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish. If it is a busy day at Reliant Auto Repair then you will have to wait in line until a spot is available to check your car or truck.

A star station is an authorized testing center that can perform all the tests required to certify your vehicle. A smog check station is only able to conduct the basic test, which means they may not be able to approve your vehicle. Make sure you choose the right location for your smog check.

Most drivers in California have to undergo a vehicle inspection once every two years. If you do not receive your emissions test, you could face certain penalties such as fines and registration denial.

The new law repeals California's current rolling emissions-test exemption for vehicles 30 years old and older and replaces it with a law requiring the lifetime testing of all 1976 and newer model-year vehicles.

A star station is an authorized testing center that can perform all the tests required to certify your vehicle. A smog check station is only able to conduct the basic test, which means they may not be able to approve your vehicle. Make sure you choose the right location for your smog check.