REGULATIONS · 2026-05-20 · 2 min read

Quick read: California's STAR program continues to evolve in 2026 with refined audit thresholds and expanded vehicle testing protocols. For consumers, the practical impact is minimal — STAR-certified stations remain the only ones authorized for required retests, with retest-free 30-day windows.

What's the STAR program?

STAR stations meet stricter audit requirements than basic BAR licensure. They've demonstrated higher accuracy in emissions testing, better record-keeping, and stronger compliance with state inspections. The DMV uses STAR designation to filter where vehicles can retest after failing inspection.

2026 refinements

Three subtle changes consumers may notice:

1. Tightened pass/fail thresholds — gradual tightening for some older vehicle categories continues BAR's multi-year program update.
2. Expanded BEV verification — STAR stations now have streamlined process to verify BEV exempt status with DMV, helping Tesla and other EV owners.
3. Improved CAP integration — STAR test+repair stations now have direct CAP application interface, helping income-qualified customers access $1,200 repair assistance faster.

What hasn't changed

• STAR-certified retests within 30 days are still free at the original station
• Test fees remain in the $55-$85 range
• $8.25 state cert fee remains mandatory
• Hybrid + PHEV still require smog; BEVs still exempt
• STAR designation still required for DMV-directed retests

Our network's STAR status

11 of our 15 GBPs are STAR-certified. Each location's STAR status is verified on our shop pages and on the official California Smog Check / STAR locator at bar.ca.gov.

Find a STAR-certified location near you →

Sources: California Bureau of Automotive Repair (bar.ca.gov), STAR Program documentation.

Need a smog check? Text (760) 800-SMOG for $10 off your first visit at any of our 15 STAR-certified locations.