Every new year brings a new “graduating class” of vehicles that are finally required to undergo their first smog inspection. If you have been enjoying the smog abatement fee exemption for the last few years, 2026 might be the year your luck runs out.
At AB Smog Check, we keep track of the changing regulations so you don’t have to. Here is everything you need to know about California’s smog rules for 2026, including who is exempt, who has to pay, and the specific rules for hybrids and new purchases.
The Big Change: 2018 Models Are Now Due
The most important rule to remember in California is the “8-Year Rule.” Gasoline-powered vehicles are exempt from their biennial (every two years) smog check for the first eight model years. During this time, you pay a “Smog Abatement Fee” (usually $25) instead of getting a physical inspection.
In 2026, the 2018 model year vehicles officially lose this exemption. If you own a 2018 gas-powered car, you will likely see a “Smog Certification Required” notice on your DMV renewal for the first time this year.
The “Smog Math” for 2026
- 2019–2025 Models: Still Exempt. You will pay the annual abatement fee to skip the test.
- 2018 Models & Older: Required. You must visit a smog station for a physical inspection.
- 1976–2017 Models: Required every two years.
The “Hybrid Myth”: Are Hybrids Exempt?
A common misconception is that because hybrids (like the Prius, Insight, or Fusion Hybrid) are “clean” cars, they are exempt from smog checks. This is false.
Since 2015, hybrids have been subject to the exact same rules as standard gasoline cars.
- If your hybrid is a 2018 model or older: You need a smog check in 2026.
- If your hybrid is a 2019 model or newer: You are exempt and pay the abatement fee.
Note: Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs) follow these same rules. Only fully electric vehicles are permanently exempt.
Selling a Car in 2026? The “4-Year Rule”
The rules change slightly if you are selling a vehicle rather than just renewing its registration. When a car changes ownership, it generally needs a fresh smog certificate. However, there is a 4-year exemption for newer cars.
For 2026, the math works like this:
- 2023, 2024, 2025, & 2026 Models: No smog check needed to sell. You will pay a “Smog Transfer Fee” instead.
- 2022 Models & Older: MUST have a passing smog certificate to transfer the title.
The “Forever Exempt” List
While the rolling year model catches up to most of us eventually, there are a few categories of vehicles that remain permanently exempt from biennial inspections in 2026:
- Electric Vehicles (EVs): Tesla, Rivian, Nissan Leaf, etc., are totally exempt.
- Classic Gas Vehicles: Model year 1975 and older.
- Classic Diesel Vehicles: Model year 1997 and older.
- Diesel Trucks over 14,000 lbs: These are subject to the separate “Clean Truck Check” program, not the standard smog check.
New Car Context: The 2026 ZEV Mandate
You might hear the year “2026” thrown around in the news regarding the “Advanced Clean Cars II” regulations. Starting with the 2026 model year, 35% of new cars sold in California must be Zero-Emission Vehicles (ZEV).
- Does this affect your current smog check? No. This is a manufacturer rule, not a consumer rule. It does not change the testing requirements for the car you are driving today.
Need a Test? We’re Ready.
If your 2018 vehicle has just “graduated” into the smog check program, don’t worry. The process is fast, easy, and affordable. At AB Smog Check, we can test all eligible vehicles—including hybrids and diesels—and get your certificate sent electronically to the DMV instantly.
