Do I need a smog check in California?

Who needs a smog check in California

California requires a Smog Check for gasoline vehicles model-year 1976 and newer (hybrids are treated as gasoline vehicles) and diesel vehicles model-year 1998 and newer with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 14,000 lbs or less. Natural-gas and propane vehicles under 14,001 lbs GVWR are also covered. Checks are generally required every two years at registration renewal, plus on most changes of ownership and initial registrations.

Which vehicles are exempt

Fully exempt at every model year: all-electric vehicles and motorcycles. Also exempt: gasoline vehicles 1975 and older, and diesel vehicles 1997 and older or over 14,000 lbs GVWR. Gasoline and hybrid vehicles that are eight or fewer model-years old don't get a Smog Check yet — they pay a $20 annual smog abatement fee with registration instead.

Selling, buying, or moving to California

On a change of ownership, a Smog Check is generally required unless the vehicle is four model-years old or newer (the new owner pays an $8 transfer fee instead), a valid certificate was issued within the last 90 days, or the transfer is between certain family members. If you're new to California, an out-of-state smog certificate is not accepted — a California Smog Check is required for affected vehicles, and you have 20 days to register.

Program areas & STAR stations

California is divided into Enhanced, Basic, and Change-of-Ownership program areas, and requirements differ by area. Whether your ZIP is in a given area — and whether your vehicle must be certified at a STAR station — is determined by the DMV and printed on your renewal notice. You can also check your area with BAR's official Smog Check Program Area lookup.