Motorcycle Smog Check California
All motorcycles in California are 100% exempt from biennial smog inspection. This includes all street motorcycles, scooters, mopeds, and dirt bikes. You don't need a smog check to register or renew a motorcycle.
Overview
California has never required motorcycles to undergo biennial smog inspection. CARB regulates motorcycle emissions at point-of-sale (new bikes must meet emissions standards) but not afterward. This applies to all 2-wheel and 3-wheel motorcycles including Harley-Davidson, Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Ducati, BMW, KTM, Triumph, Vespa, etc.
Key facts
- ✓ Exempt: All motorcycles, scooters, mopeds — any year, any make
- ✓ Why: California does not require biennial smog for motorcycles (only for cars/trucks/vans/SUVs)
- ✓ What you still need: Registration + insurance + M1/M2 license
- ⚠ Out-of-state imports: One-time VIN verification still required for re-registration
Common questions
Do motorcycles need a smog check in California?
No. California does not require biennial smog inspection for any motorcycle. This includes street bikes, scooters, mopeds, and trikes.
Why is my DMV asking for a smog cert on my motorcycle?
This is rare but happens. Bring your registration to any of our shops — we'll verify with the DMV and clear up any system mismatch.
What about a motorcycle I bought out-of-state?
You need a VIN verification (which is different from smog) before California will issue a title. We can do that VIN verification.
Motorcycle smog services at our network
Closest locations equipped to handle motorcycle vehicles: