California Smog Check Program – 2025 Guide

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At Morb Auto Registration, we understand that smog checks can be confusing, especially with changing rules, exceptions, and fees. That’s why we’ve created this complete 2025 Smog Check Guide—written clearly, professionally, and tailored for drivers in California.

Whether you’re registering your car, transferring ownership, or bringing a car from another state, here’s everything you need to know in plain terms.

🚘 What Is a Smog Check?

A smog check is an emissions inspection required by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to ensure your vehicle isn’t releasing harmful pollutants into the air.

This program has been in place since 1984 and plays a major role in reducing air pollution. If your car doesn’t meet California’s clean-air standards, it must be repaired before the DMV will issue or renew your registration.

 

📅 When Is a Smog Check Required?

You’ll need a smog check in three common situations:

1. Initial California Registration

If you just moved to California or bought a car from out of state:

  • Gas vehicles (5+ years old) and diesel vehicles (1998 or newer, under 14,000 lbs) must pass a smog test before registration.

  • Specially constructed vehicles from 1976 or newer may need a referee inspection.
    ➤ Call (800) 622-7733 to schedule.

 

2. Registration Renewal

Smog checks are due every two years for most vehicles, depending on age and location:

  • Vehicles 9 years or older must pass a smog check every other year.

  • Vehicles 8 years or newer are exempt from testing but pay a smog abatement fee instead.

🔢 Example: If your car is a 2017 model, your first smog check will be in 2025 (2017 + 8).

 

3. Title Transfer (Selling or Buying a Vehicle)

  • A smog certificate is required if the car is more than 4 model years old.

  • No smog test is needed if:

    • The vehicle is 4 model years old or newer (gas vehicles only)

    • The transfer is between immediate family members (spouse, child, sibling, grandparent, etc.)

 

❌ Who Is Exempt from Smog Checks?

Your vehicle is exempt if it is:

  • Gas-powered and 1975 or older

  • Diesel-powered and 1997 or older

  • A diesel vehicle with a GVWR over 14,000 lbs

  • Fully electric

  • A motorcycle

  • A trailer

  • A natural gas vehicle over 14,000 lbs

📝 Note: The DMV calculates your vehicle’s age using the model year, not the manufacturing date.

 

💵 How Much Does a Smog Check Cost?

Smog check prices vary based on your car and location, but here’s what to expect:

  • Typical price: $40–$65 (includes certificate fee)

  • Prices may be higher for:

    • Older vehicles (1999 or earlier)

    • Larger or heavier vehicles (SUVs, vans)

    • Vehicles requiring STAR certification or ASM testing

    • Exotic or modified cars that need extra labor (e.g., engine cover removal)

💡 TIP: Smog stations must display all additional fees clearly. Ask for a quote before testing.

 

🏅 What Is a STAR Smog Check?

Some vehicles are directed to STAR-certified stations by the DMV. These stations meet higher testing standards and are monitored for performance.

There are two types:

  • STAR Test-Only: Only performs smog checks

  • STAR Test & Repair: Can test and also repair failed vehicles

DMV registration renewal notices will indicate if your vehicle needs a STAR smog check.

 

⚙️ What Are the Types of Smog Tests?

  • BAR-OIS: For most vehicles from 2000 and newer (uses a plug-in scanner)

  • BAR-97 (ASM Test): For 1999 and older vehicles (uses a dynamometer and tailpipe sensor)

  • EVAP/LPFET Test: For vehicles from 1995 and older (tests fuel evaporation control system)

Each system is used depending on your car’s age and fuel type.

 

⏱️ How Long Does a Smog Test Take?

  • 10–20 minutes for most modern cars

  • 30+ minutes for older vehicles or those requiring extra testing

📍 Pro Tip: Choose a smog station near restaurants or stores so you can relax while you wait!

 

📄 What Happens After the Smog Test?

Once your car passes:

  • The smog certificate is sent electronically to the DMV

  • You’ll receive a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) – keep it with your records

  • You can complete registration online, in person, or through a registration service like us

If your car fails:

  • Visit a Test & Repair station to diagnose and fix the issue

  • You may need to pay a diagnostic fee

 

🌍 What If My Car Is Out of State?

California will not accept out-of-state smog tests.

If your vehicle is temporarily out of California, you can request a Temporary Smog Exemption with the DMV. Once you return, you must pass the test to complete registration.

 

🚫 What If I File for Planned Non-Operation (PNO)?

  • A smog check is not required to file for non-operation

  • If you later bring the vehicle back on the road, you may need a smog test before renewing registration

📌 Warning: Vehicles marked as non-operational cannot be driven or parked on public roads.

 

📬 What Is a “Notice of Incomplete Registration”?

This means the DMV did not receive your smog certificate.

✅ If you already completed your smog test, allow up to 30 days for processing.
📞 If it’s been more than 30 days, call DMV at (800) 777-0133.

Need it faster? Morb Auto Registration can help you order a replacement sticker and registration card.

 

😡 Complaints About a Smog Station?

If you feel you were overcharged, misled, or treated unfairly:

  • File a complaint with the Bureau of Automotive Repair: www.bar.ca.gov

     

  • Or call the Department of Consumer Affairs: (800) 952-5210

 

✅ Why Choose Morb Auto Registration?

At Morb Auto Registration, we take the stress out of smog checks and DMV paperwork. Our office in Los Angeles can help you:

  • Understand if you need a smog check

  • Get your registration processed the same day you pass inspection

  • File for PNO or smog exemptions

  • Complete title transfers or out-of-state registrations

  • Handle late fees, stickers, plates, and more