Callagy Automotive - Smog Inspection Station
Not all vehicles must get a Smog Check. Additionally, some vehicles only need a Smog Check when they are being sold or being registered in California after previously being registered in another state. Whether or not a vehicle needs a Smog Check depends on the type of vehicle, the model year, and the area in which the vehicle is registered.
Some vehicles are completely exempt
All 1973 and older model year vehicles are exempt from all aspects of the Smog Check program, but owners of these vehicles are required by law to keep their emissions systems intact. Vehicles built in 1973 for the 1974 model year are 1974 vehicles and must be tested accordingly.
Additionally, vehicles with diesel engines, vehicles with two-cycle engines, vehicles with engines smaller than 50 cubic inches of displacement, electric vehicles, and motorcycles are exempt from the Smog Check program.
New vehicles exempt until their fifth year
Vehicles four model years old and newer (model years 1998-2001, for registrations due after 1/1/2001) are not required to have a biennial Smog Check performed until their fifth year. However, these vehicles must have a Smog Check performed if the vehicle is sold or being registered in California for the first time during that time.
Change of Ownership areas vs. Basic and Enhanced areas
Most areas of the state require vehicles to have a Smog Check performed every two years, when being sold, and when being initially registered in California. These areas are referred to as the state's Basic and Enhanced Areas. However, Change of Ownership Areas only require a Smog Check when the vehicle is being sold or initially registered in California. You can determine the Smog Check area you are in by calling the Department of Consumer Affairs/Bureau of Automotive Repair toll-free at 1-800-952-5210 or by checking the ZIP Code Locator this website.
How do I know if my vehicle needs a Smog Check?
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will note on your DMV Renewal Notice whether a Smog Check is required to reregister. In addition, an information insert explaining the Smog Check Program requirements will be included in that mailing.
No Smog Check required on sales within immediate family
Section 4000.1 (d)(2) of the California Vehicle code exempts transfers from parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, siblings, or spouses from the smog inspection requirement.