1 | What is Test-Only Smog Check Station ? |
| Test-Only stations are privately-owned and licensed by the California State to inspect and certify most vehicles including Gross Polluters and those vehicles selected
randomly and directed to Test-Only station for their Smog Check.
They are prohibited from performing any repair services. |
2 | Which Smog Check Station do I have to take my car to get smog check? |
| | California | Test Only Station | Test & Repair Station | | For Regular Smog Check, Diesel Smog | Yes | Yes | | Directed to Test-Only Station by DMV | Yes | No | | Smog Check for Gross polluter | Yes | No | | Change of ownership | Yes | Yes |
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3 | How do I know if my car was directed to Test-Only Station or not ? |
| DMV notifies owner of vehicles that have been selected to have their Smog checks
performed at Test-Only stations. The registration Renewal Notice sent for these
vehicles will say "Smog Certification Required at Test-Only Smog Check Center".
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4 | Who is responsible for obtaining a Smog Check when a vehicle is sold? |
| It is the responsibility of the seller to provide a valid smog check certificate at the time of delivery of the vehicle. There is no provision in the law to sell a vehicle "as is". |
5 | For how long is a Smog Check certificate valid? |
| A smog check certificate of compliance or non-compliance is valid for 90 days.
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6 | Do I need Smog Check on sales within immediate familly ? |
| The California Vehicle code exempts transfers from parents, grandparents,
children, grandchildren, siblings, or spouses from the smog inspection requirement.
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7 | Any preparation before I go in for Smog Check ? |
| 1. Make sure your Engine is idling smoothly. If it is running rough, have it repaired first.
2. Visually Check under the hood for anything that is disconnected or damaged.
3. If your Check Engine Light or Service Engine Soon is on, fix it before you go in.
4. If you have Approved Aftermarket parts, you must have the small Silver sticker that
came with the part. It will have the A.R.B.approval numbers ( Example EO D-279-3 ).
5. Make sure your Car has NO Leaks.(Engine Coolant, Motor Oil or Transmission Fluid)
6. Warm up your Car before you go in. If there is a wait, warm it up again before your turn. |