California Smog Check Q&A

Okay, so we know that many states (most, actually) require some form of passing emissions test in order to obtain or renew registration – this regulation is in place to protect our bodies and our environments from extra, unnecessary pollution – but it seems as if the state of California in particular might be the trickiest to navigate. We get lots of questions regarding the process and requirements of what our Left Coast State asks of motorists. So if you’re a car owner in Cali, we’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions for your perusal and overall convenience.

You can read now and thank us later…wink, wink. Without further ado, here goes:

What is a Smog Check?

A smog check is part of a statewide emissions reduction program whose purpose is to single out vehicles with excessive and unhealthy levels of chemical emissions and either require them to undergo repairs or keep them from operating entirely.

Launched in 1984, the Smog Check Program has significantly improved the air quality issue caused by California vehicles.

When are Smog Checks Required?

CA Smog Checks are necessary in three separate instances:

1. At the time of initial registration. Specifically, all diesel vehicles manufactured in 1998 or later, and all gasoline-powered vehicles five or more years old are required to undergo the test.
2. At the time of registration renewal. Vehicles nine years or older that are registered in counties subject to the biennial smog inspection program, are required to submit proof of valid smog certification every other renewal period. Motorists with vehicles eight years old or younger are exempt from the smog test until their ninth year of being registered in California.
3. At the time of a title transfer. Almost all title transfers will need a smog check. The only exception is that buying or selling of a vehicle that four years old or younger.

How Much Will a Smog Test Set My Back in the Wallet?

The average cost for a smog check is $50.

But keep in mind that you may find the service for less if you venture into a part of town that has many checking stations, as the competition drives the price down in some instances.  Your best bet is a little local research!

How Long Does The Test Take?

It’s a quick process getting your vehicle’s emissions checked. Generally, the process will take anywhere from ten to twenty minutes.  Newer cars usually undergo a fast process that older models, FYI.

I Passed My Smog Check….Now What?

Fret not: once you have obtained your passing smog test, you can relax.  There is no need to submit the passing document to the DMV, as the certification will be sent electronically by the inspection station.

I Failed…Now What?

• If you happen to be at a Test & Repair center, the technicians can likely pinpoint and/or check to see what caused the failure and possibly offer a solution.
• A Test Only center is not allowed to initiate repairs, only to report on your pass/fail status. You will have to visit a mechanic to discover the cause and ask for a fix.
• A Repair Only center rarely facilitates Smog Checks, but you may have stumbled upon one that does. As the name implies: they are mostly in business to fix things.
• If you find yourself at a STAR Certified facility, you can pretty much be sure that this station can assist you with testing, diagnosis, and repairs up to $500.

What if I’m Out of State at the Time the Smog Check is Due?

One: don’t waste your time or money on an emissions test from any other state, as California will not accept it.

Two: Apply for an extension that will allow you to keep driving out-of-state, and obtain the check when you return to CA.

I’m in California Temporarily…Do I Still Need To Pass a Smog Check?

Yes. If you are employed in CA, happen to be enrolled in university or any other higher learning institution for which you are paying tuition, the state of California considers you a resident and will require your vehicle to pass emissions inspection.

Not only are you required to register your out-of-state vehicle within twenty days of moving to CA, but you will need to provide both a VIN verification and a passing Smog Check.

In the Casual Sale of a Vehicle, Who Is Responsible?

In the state of California, the seller is always supposed to provide a passing Smog Certificate.

Make sure you obtain a certificate before finalizing your purchase, as the DMV will not involve themselves in private sale issues.

Can I Renew My Registration Without a Smog Check?

Sort of.  You can pay your registration fees in order to avoid having to pay late penalties, but you will not receive your new registration card and sticker without a smog check.  So if you’re reg is about to expire, but you can’t find the time for an emissions test just yet, go ahead and renew your registration so that you remain current.  And then be sure to get that Smog Check so that you can also get your reg and sticker updated. Keep in mind though, that it may take the DMV up to thirty days after your passing check to get your documents in the mail.

In short, the California Smog Check is no joke.  When it is required, it is Required!  But it’s good to know a few of the ins and outs – especially that little detail about the applying for an extension application.  We hope this list has been and will continue to be useful for existing and future CA residents.  As always, if you’ve got questions, concerns, or need any kind of assistance with most things vehicle related, head on over to our California page to peruse, explore, or contact us – we’re here to help!