Smog Check Checklist: What to Bring and How to Prepare

A smog check goes fast when your car is ready for it. Here's how to make sure yours is.

Do you need one? You probably do if your DMV renewal notice says "Smog Certification Required" (every other year for most cars), if you're selling the car (a private-sale smog must be less than 90 days old), or if you're registering a car in California for the first time, including one bought out of state.

You usually don't need one if the car is electric, a motorcycle, a gas or hybrid model from 1975 or older, or a diesel from 1997 or older. Gas and hybrid cars eight model years old or newer skip it at renewal (add 8 to the model year to see when your first one is due). Transfers between immediate family members are also exempt.

What to bring: your DMV renewal notice (if you have one), your car with a warmed-up engine (drive it 15-20 minutes first), and payment. Our smog check is $40 total for sedans and small SUVs ($31.75 + the state's $8.25 certificate fee).

Before You Come In

• Check engine light on? Get it fixed first. A car with that light on will not pass.

• Just replaced the battery or cleared codes? Drive normally for a week or two so the car's self-tests can finish.

• Tuned or modified? Engine software and aftermarket parts must be factory or California-approved (look for a CARB EO number).

• Does your notice say "STAR station"? Call us first at (209) 800-1312 and we'll tell you if we can do it.

• After the test: if you pass, the certificate goes to the DMV electronically and is good for 90 days, so you can renew online right away. If you fail, see our Failed Smog page for what to do next.