Every two years for most vehicles. At sale or transfer First 8 years exempt for new cars Out-of-state imports need one
Source: California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) smog check program.
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Every two years for most vehicles. At sale or transfer First 8 years exempt for new cars Out-of-state imports need one
Dmv notice will specify. Typically every other renewal Newer cars get abatement fee instead Star-directed vehicles need star station
Up to 90 days before registration expires. smog cert is good for 90 days DMV accepts cert within this window no benefit to going earlier
90 days from inspection. Transmits to dmv electronically Valid for registration use Starts countdown at pass
Seller responsible if over 4 years old. Must be within 90 days of sale Buyer pays smog transfer fee Exempt if same family
Yes within 20 days of residency. Out-of-state certs not accepted Vehicle must be 1976 or newer gas Diesel 1998 or newer
Exempt parent spouse child sibling grandparent grandchild. Must file dmv exemption form No certificate needed if exempt Abatement fee may still apply
After — your DMV renewal notice tells you if smog is needed. renewal notice arrives 60 days before due date smog certificate valid 90 days for renewal skip-year vehicles get a printed reminder