Moving to California or bringing in a car you bought out of state? In most cases, yes, you’ll need a smog check before the DMV will register it. Here’s exactly what determines whether your vehicle needs one, what’s exempt, and what the process looks like from start to finish.
Do You Need a Smog Check for Your Out-of-State Vehicle?
Generally, yes. If you’re bringing a vehicle into California to register it for the first time, it will typically require a smog inspection. This applies even if the vehicle recently passed an emissions test in another state, since most states don’t meet California’s stricter standards.
A few factors determine whether your specific vehicle needs testing:
- Model year. Gasoline-powered vehicles eight model years old or newer are exempt from the physical inspection but still pay a smog abatement fee. Vehicles older than that generally need to test.
- Vehicle type. Passenger cars, trucks, SUVs, and RVs typically require testing.
- Fuel type. Diesel vehicles from model year 1998 or newer with a gross vehicle weight rating of 14,000 pounds or less also need testing.
What’s Exempt
Your out-of-state vehicle may not need a smog test if it falls into one of these categories:
- Fully electric vehicles. Not subject to smog check requirements.
- Classic and pre-1975 vehicles. Gasoline vehicles model year 1975 or older are generally exempt.
- Large diesel vehicles. Diesel vehicles over 14,000 pounds GVWR have different testing requirements.
Note that the eight-model-year exemption that applies to vehicles already registered in California works a little differently for out-of-state vehicles being registered here for the first time, since your compliance history from another state generally doesn’t carry over. When in doubt, the official BAR Smog Check page has the current exemption categories.
How the Process Works
- Find a STAR-certified station. Some out-of-state vehicles are directed to a station with STAR certification, especially for enhanced inspections. AB Smog Check is STAR-certified, so you’re covered here regardless of what your registration paperwork requires. See our guide to STAR-certified smog stations for more on what that means.
- Bring your documentation. You’ll need your out-of-state registration and proof of ownership.
- Complete the inspection. This typically includes a visual check of emissions control components, a functional check of the ignition timing and exhaust systems, and either a tailpipe test or OBD system scan depending on the vehicle’s age. Our post on what happens during a smog check inspection walks through this in more detail.
- Receive your certificate. If your vehicle passes, you’ll get a smog certificate to submit with your California registration paperwork.
Getting Ready Before You Test
A pre-inspection with a qualified mechanic can catch issues before they cost you a failed test. Pay particular attention to the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors, common trouble spots on vehicles that haven’t been maintained to California’s standards. Routine items like a recent oil change and clean air filter can also make a difference.
If Your Vehicle Doesn’t Pass
If your out-of-state vehicle fails the initial test, it will need repairs to bring emissions within acceptable limits before it can be re-inspected. If cost is a concern, California’s Consumer Assistance Program may be able to help cover repair expenses for qualifying vehicles.
After You Pass: Completing Registration
Once your vehicle passes, you’re ready to finish registering with the California DMV. You’ll generally need your smog certificate, proof of ownership, and your out-of-state title. The DMV’s official site has the full checklist for new-resident vehicle registration, since requirements can vary slightly depending on your specific situation.
Get Your Out-of-State Smog Check at AB Smog Check
AB Smog Check in Monterey Park is a certified STAR facility equipped to handle out-of-state inspections from start to finish. If you’re not sure whether your specific vehicle needs testing, give us a call and we’ll walk you through it before you make the trip in.
