How do I know if my car needs a smog check in California?

Reviewed 2026-11-01 · Source: California Department of Motor Vehicles

Photo: Laguna Hills DMV office, California · California DMV · Public domain. Shown for illustration; not an office recommendation.

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California requires a smog inspection when you register or renew a vehicle, with exceptions. Renewal inspections apply in listed counties, and sellers must give the buyer a valid smog certification.

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Steps4 steps

Check if your vehicle is exempt: Electric vehicles, gas vehicles from 1975 or older, and gas vehicles under eight model-years old don't need one.
Check your county: Renewal inspections are required in listed counties, including Los Angeles, Orange, Sacramento and San Francisco.
Find a station: Use a DMV-authorized smog check station. If your renewal notice says STAR station, find one through the Bureau of Automotive Repair.
If it fails: Contact the Bureau of Automotive Repair Referee Program; you may qualify for repair help.

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Smog abatement feeNewer vehicles pay this instead of an inspection; amount not stated on this page

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Source

Smog Inspections - California DMV · California Department of Motor Vehicles · reviewed 2026-11-01

Limitations: Every fact was matched word-for-word to the official California DMV page on 2026-11-01; not yet reviewed by a person. The official page is the final word, and DMV.ai does not submit anything for you.

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