★ RV · PARTIAL EXEMPTION

RV + Motorhome Smog Inspection California

QUICK ANSWER

Motorhomes (Class A, B, C) under 14,000 lbs GVWR follow standard smog inspection rules. Heavier Class A motorhomes (>14,000 lbs GVWR) are exempt from biennial smog but may need a one-time emissions inspection for re-registration. Travel trailers and 5th wheels don't have engines and don't need smog.

Overview

RV smog rules depend on GVWR + drivetrain. Most Class B + C motorhomes (and smaller Class A) are under 14,000 lbs and follow standard car smog rules. Larger Class A motorhomes (Newmar, Tiffin, Entegra at 25,000+ lbs GVWR) fall outside biennial smog. Travel trailers and 5th wheel campers don't have engines and aren't inspected.

Key facts

  • Class B + C motorhomes: Standard smog rules apply if <14k lbs GVWR
  • Smaller Class A motorhomes (<14k lbs): Standard rules
  • Larger Class A motorhomes (>14k lbs GVWR): Exempt from biennial smog
  • Travel trailers + 5th wheels + pop-ups: No engine = no smog inspection
  • Pre-1998 RVs: Exempt regardless of weight
  • Diesel pushers: Same rules as diesel pickups (1998+, ≤14k lbs GVWR)
Our service for RV owners: RV + motorhome smog inspection at our test+repair locations. We have the bay clearance for Class B + C + smaller Class A units.

Common questions

Does my motorhome need a smog check?

Depends on weight. If GVWR is ≤14,000 lbs and model year is 1998 or newer, yes. Larger Class A motorhomes (Newmar, Tiffin, etc. at 20-40k lbs GVWR) are exempt from biennial smog inspection.

Can your shop fit my motorhome?

Class B + C + smaller Class A motorhomes fit our standard bays. For Class A units over 30 feet, call ahead to confirm bay clearance at our test+repair locations.

What about my travel trailer?

No engine = no smog inspection required. Travel trailers, 5th wheel campers, and pop-up trailers register annually but don't need smog.