How long will my Smog Test/Inspection take?
If your vehicle is year 2000 and newer we will normally have you in and out in less than 30 minutes. Vehicles 1999 and older can take a little longer.
What do I need to bring with me?
It is helpful to bring your DMV notice or registration, however we can still perform your Smog Check if you forget to bring it. The registered owner does not need to be present.
What is a STAR Certified Station?
STAR Certified Stations are Smog Check stations licensed by the State of California that are able to pass and certify all years, makes and models of vehicles.
What is the difference between a Smog Test, Smog Inspection, and Smog Check?
They are all the same test, just different terminology.
What do I need to do if my vehicle fails the test?
There are many different reasons why a vehicle might fail, but no worries, we will advise you on how to get your vehicle to pass in the cheapest and easiest way possible.
I do not have funds to fix my vehicle. What are my options?
The State of California offers repair assistance and vehicle retirement options to income eligible consumers whose vehicles have failed a Smog Check. You can apply online at: https://www.bar.ca.gov/Consumer/Consumer_Assistance_Program/
My vehicle failed the test and I have expired tags.
No worries! In certain cases, DMV may issue a Temporary Operating Permit (TOP), which allows a motorist to operate a vehicle when all registration fees have been paid. Please visit the website below for more information:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/license-plates-decals-and-placards/temporary-operating-permits/
Can you recommend a repair shop?
California State Law does not allow us to recommend any repair shops for Smog repairs. Please visit the website below to find a Smog Repair Station nearest you: https://www.bar.ca.gov/pubwebquery/station/stationlist.aspx
How can I know when my vehicle is ready to pass its Smog Check retest?
We can loan you a device called a Ready-Meter for that purpose. It is easy to use and we will show you how to use it. It requires a fully refundable deposit of $40. Your other option for year 2000 and newer vehicles is to have us pre-check your vehicle for $10 before you do your official retest with us.
My vehicle is registered out of state and I do not plan to register my vehicle in California. My state requires emission testing for my renewal. Will the state I'm from accept a California Smog Check?
Most states do, but consult with your state's DMV to be sure.
My vehicle is temporarily out of state but my biennial smog check is due in California, can I get a smog exemption?
Yes, you can apply for a biennial smog exemption at your local DMV with form REG 5103 (Application for Temporary Smog Exemption for a Vehicle Located out of State).
Some cities in Nevada and Mexico are illegible.
I lost my Smog Check results and/or my copy of the certificate. Can I get a copy?
Yes. Duplicate copies are $10.00.
Processing time can take up to 48 hours to get it to you.
Do you do Brake and Light Inspections?
We do not perform this service. For a list of Brake and Light stations please visit:
https://www.bar.ca.gov/pubwebquery/station/stationlist.aspx
Do you do VIN Verifications?
We do not perform this service. VIN Verifications are done at your local DMV.
The DMV is asking me to weigh my vehicle. Can you weigh my vehicle?
We do not perform this service. Please visit the following website for a list of public weigh stations:
https://apps1.cdfa.ca.gov/publicscales/
Do you do UBER Safety Inspections?
We do not perform this service.
When did California mandate Smog Tests/Inspections on vehicles?
The Smog Check program was implemented in March 1984. It came about as a result of "SB 33" which was passed in 1982.
What happened to the Gold Shield/Test only stations?
In 2013, California ended Gold Shield/Test only stations and they have been replaced by Star Smog Test Only stations.
For more information on the State Smog Program please visit the following website:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/smog-inspections/
