California Smog Check Exemptions & Requirements

The Department of Motor Vehicles website uses Google™ Translate to provide automatic translation of its web pages. This translation application tool is provided for purposes of information and convenience only. Google™ Translate is a free third-party service, which is not controlled by the DMV. The price of a smog inspection will vary from one smog test center to another.
The DMV renewal notice will let you know if a Smog Check is required to register your car, and when it needs one. In California most vehicles need their smog checked every two years regardless of where they live or what type of insurance policy applies . Examined certified stations are licensed by the state to perform only tests on vehicles. They cannot offer any repair services and Gross Polluters can also be certified at these test Only Stations. Test-Only stations are licensed by the state only to perform tests on vehicles. When selling a vehicle in California, sellers must provide buyers with valid smog inspection certifications at the time of the sale.



I have been coming here for two years in a row for both my vehicles and every time come here I get friendly, quick, and efficient service. I asked for a copy of my receipt and they gave me 2 copies. Taking my cars there for years and they have always been professional, thanks for great service. Provides a very professional and quick thorough service as well as fair price. A google map embed with up to 10 marker pins identifying office locations related to the current search results.
Offers eligible consumers repair assistance and vehicle retirement options. Allways check this information because can change with the time. The state of California currently enforces a law in which any vehicle 1976 and later must adhere to a «vehicle inspection and maintenance check » every two years. Functional inspection of the vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostic system. Visual inspection of emissions control components and systems.

However, an actual inspection isn't required if the DMV received a biennial smog certification within 90 days of the sale. The DMV chatbot and live chat services use third-party vendors to provide machine translation. Machine translation is provided for purposes of information and convenience only. The visual inspection, the functional inspection, and the tailpipe emissions. During the visual inspection we are looking for any defects or tampering of the emissions related components. The functional inspection will check the OBD readings, check engine light, visual smoke and etc.
We have done this by providing exceptional service and making it convenient for our customers by offering Smog Check and DMV Registration Services under one roof. We provide fast and reliable smog check and registration service, so you have more time for the important things. On most cars we can finish your smog check and have you on your way in about 15 minutes. The shop has a comfortable waiting room and seating while we certify your vehicle. We have multiple 5 star rated locations, which speak of our commitment to our clients. Our aim is differentiate ourselves from the rest of the industry.

The DMV will inform the buyer that the registration is not valid and it needs a smog cert. You must not be in the process of selling the vehicle or registering it in the State of California for the first time. Functional inspection of the vehicle’s check engine light, ignition timing, exhaust gas recirculation system, fuel evaporative system, and visible smoke.
After these first 8 years, you will be subject to the regular smog check program. Even if they're current,out-of-state smog inspection stickers or certificates do not suffice this requirement. Searching for a vehicle's Smog Test Smog Check history will not impact the transmission of electronic smog certificates to the Department of Motor Vehicles for registration purposes. For the most accurate results, search by the vehicle's VIN.
Your car can fail for readiness if you did any recent check engine light repairs, disconnected the battery, or the battery on your car died. In all three situation the readiness data for different components is deleted and the vehicle has to go through a full drive cycle before it will pass. In this situation you will have to drive your car until the drive cycle is complete.