Essential Smog Check Terms

Smog Check = Smog Test = Smoke Check = Emissions Test = Smog Certification = Smog Inspection
Smog Station = Smog Inspection Station = Smog Center = Smog Test Center = Smog Check Station
Smog Stations: Businesses authorized to test emissions of vehicles.
Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR): The governing body that regulates the automotive repair industry and administers the smog check program.
Smog Check Program: Designed to reduce the air pollution by motor vehicles.
STAR Program: Designed to ensure certain performance standards among smog centers.
STAR Stations: Smog centers that meet the guidelines of the STAR program and are certified by the BAR to smog STAR required (directed) vehicles.
Smog Technician OR Smog Inspector: The technician that performs a smog test. All smog technicians are required to have proper licensing from the BAR.

California Smog Check Program

California has specific smog check requirements in place to ensure vehicles meet emission standards and help reduce air pollution. These requirements vary based on factors such as the type of vehicle, its age, and the area in which it is registered. Here's a general overview:

Biennial Smog Check: Most vehicles in California need a smog check every two years during the registration renewal. Newer vehicles (within the first eight model years) are generally exempt unless they are specifically directed by the DMV to undergo a smog check.
Change of Ownership: When selling or transferring ownership of a vehicle, a smog check is typically required, except for vehicles that are four or fewer model years old.
Out-of-State Vehicles: Vehicles coming into California from out of state are required to undergo a smog check to be registered in California.
Test Areas: Certain areas in California, known as Enhanced Smog Check Areas (like Los Angeles), have stricter emissions requirements and may require additional tests beyond the standard smog check.
Exemptions: Some vehicles are exempt from smog check requirements, such as classic cars, electric vehicles, motorcycles, diesel vehicles older than 1998, and certain others.
Repair Assistance: If a vehicle fails the smog check, financial assistance may be available through the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) to help with repairs or retirement of the vehicle.

It's important to note that specific details and exemptions can change, so it's advisable to check with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or a certified smog check station for the most current information regarding your vehicle's requirements based on its make, model, and year.