Does my collector car require a Smog Check? California

 

Does my collector car require a Smog Check?

The most important thing to understand with direct import cars, or cars never originally EPA or California certified, is that anything 1968 or newer has to be FIRST brought into California compliance, and then once that is done, and a BAR label affixed, then it can be smogged tested biennially if a car is going to be registered in California. If you are outside of California, then these rules don't apply. 

BAR label on a 1995 Nissan Skyline GT-R

Collector cars that are model-year 1975 and older do not require a Smog Check.

Collector cars that are model-year 1976 and newer require a Smog Check. Because Smog Check stations do not have the equipment necessary to inspect collector cars, collector cars require a Smog Check at a Smog Check Referee. For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit www.asktheref.org.

Smog Check FAQ

What is the Smog Check Program?

The Smog Check Program is a vehicle inspection and maintenance program administered by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR). The program is designed to improve air quality by identifying vehicles with excess emissions so they can be properly repaired or retired. Since its implementation in 1984, the program has greatly reduced air pollution created by millions of vehicles in California.

What is a Smog Check?

A Smog Check is an inspection of a vehicle’s emissions-control equipment and systems to measure the amount and type of pollutants the vehicle is emitting. A Smog Check may include any of the following inspections, depending on the vehicle type and model year:

• Visual inspection of emissions-control equipment and systems.
• Functional inspection of the vehicle’s check engine light, ignition timing, exhaust gas recirculation system, fuel evaporative system, and gas cap.
• Functional inspection of the vehicle’s on-board diagnostic (OBD) system.
• Tailpipe emissions inspection.

When is a Smog Check required?

A Smog Check is required every other year (biennially) as part of the vehicle registration process. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) registration renewal notice will indicate if a Smog Check is required. A Smog Check is also required when a vehicle changes ownership or when it is registered for the first time in California.