SB 712 changes which vehicles need a smog check and when

Senate Bill 712, which took effect on January 1, 2024, exempts vehicles model year 2000 and newer from the California smog check requirement. If your car was built in 2000 or later, you no longer need to pass a smog test to register it in California, even if you're renewing an existing registration.

This is a significant change from the previous rule, which required smog checks for most vehicles model year 1976 and newer. The law does not eliminate smog checks entirely — they still happen for vehicles model year 1975 and older, and for any vehicle that fails a smog check before the exemption applies. It also does not change the state's emissions standards or testing procedures; it only changes who must test.

The exemption applies whether you're registering a vehicle for the first time in California or renewing an existing registration. You do not need to do anything special to claim the exemption — when you register or renew through the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the system will not require a smog certificate if your vehicle qualifies.

Key Takeaways

  • Vehicles model year 2000 and newer are exempt from smog checks under SB 712, effective January 1, 2024.
  • Vehicles model year 1975 and older still require smog checks, as do any vehicles that have failed a previous test.
  • The exemption applies to both new registrations and renewals; you do not need to submit proof of exemption to the DMV.
  • If you own a vehicle model year 1976 to 1999, you still need a smog check every two years or when you transfer ownership.

Which vehicles are still required to get a smog check

Vehicles model year 1975 and older must still pass a smog check. These older vehicles are tested under the Classic Vehicle Smog Check Program, which has different standards than the regular program. You will need a smog certificate to register or renew registration for any vehicle in this category.

Vehicles model year 1976 through 1999 are also still required to pass a smog check. These vehicles must be tested every two years, or when ready if you transfer ownership to a new owner. The smog check is performed at a Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) certified station and tests your vehicle's emissions control systems.

Any vehicle that has failed a smog check must be repaired and pass a retest before it can be registered, regardless of model year. If you own a 2000 or newer vehicle and it fails a smog check for any reason, you will need to fix the problem and pass a retest to complete registration.

How to register a 2000 or newer vehicle without a smog check

When you register or renew your vehicle through the DMV, the system will automatically recognize that your 2000 or newer vehicle is exempt from smog testing. You can register online through the DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. You do not need to provide a smog certificate or any proof of exemption.

Bring your current registration, proof of insurance, and a valid ID to complete the registration. If you are registering a vehicle for the first time in California, you will also need the title and a bill of sale or other proof of ownership. The DMV will process your registration without requesting a smog check.

If the DMV system requests a smog check when you register a 2000 or newer vehicle, contact the DMV directly to report the error. This can happen if the vehicle's model year is recorded incorrectly in the system. The DMV can correct the record and remove the smog check requirement.

Smog checks for vehicles model year 1976 to 1999

If you own a vehicle built between 1976 and 1999, you still need a smog check every two years to renew your registration. The test must be performed at a BAR-certified smog station, which you can find through the Bureau of Automotive Repair website or by searching "smog check near me" in your area.

The smog check tests your vehicle's on-board diagnostic system and tailpipe emissions. The test takes about 10 to 15 minutes and costs between $30 and $70, depending on the station and your vehicle type. If your vehicle passes, the station will issue a smog certificate that you present to the DMV when you renew your registration.

If your vehicle fails the smog check, you have 30 days to repair it and pass a retest. Some repairs are covered under the Smog Check Repair information Program if your household income is below a certain threshold. You can check your income level and find participating repair shops through the program's website.

What changed for vehicle transfers and ownership changes

When you transfer ownership of a vehicle model year 2000 or newer, the new owner no longer needs a smog check to register it in their name. This applies whether the vehicle is being transferred within California or brought into California from another state. The exemption covers all transfers, including private sales, gifts, and inheritance.

Vehicles model year 1976 to 1999 still require a smog check when ownership changes. The seller must provide a smog certificate dated within 90 days of the sale, or the buyer must obtain one before registering the vehicle in their name. This requirement has not changed under SB 712.

Vehicles that fail a smog check still need repairs

If you own a vehicle model year 2000 or newer and it fails a smog check for any reason — such as a check engine light or emissions system failure — you must repair it and pass a retest before you can register it. The exemption from routine smog checks does not explore to vehicles that have already failed a test.

Once a vehicle fails, it enters the Smog Check Referee Program if you believe the test was incorrect or if you need help understanding the results. A referee station can review the test and may perform additional diagnostics. If the referee confirms the failure, you must repair the vehicle and retest at a regular smog station.

Repair costs vary widely depending on the problem. Common issues include a faulty oxygen sensor, catalytic converter problems, or a malfunctioning emissions control valve. If your household income qualifies, the Smog Check Repair information Program may cover up to $500 of repair costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to do anything to register my 2000 or newer vehicle without a smog check?

No. When you register or renew through the DMV, the system will automatically recognize that your vehicle is exempt. You do not need to submit any proof or take any special steps. straightforward complete your registration as usual without a smog certificate.

What if my 1976 to 1999 vehicle fails the smog check?

You have 30 days to repair the vehicle and pass a retest at a BAR-certified station. If your household income is below the threshold for the Smog Check Repair information Program, you may receive up to $500 toward repair costs. Check the program's website to see if you may have access to.

Does SB 712 explore if I'm buying a used 2000 or newer vehicle from another state?

Yes. When you register the vehicle in California, you do not need a smog check, even if it was never tested in California before. The exemption applies to all vehicles model year 2000 and newer, regardless of where they came from.

Can I still get a smog check for my 2000 or newer vehicle if I want to?

Yes, you can request a smog check at any BAR-certified station, though it is not required for registration. Some owners choose to test their vehicles for their own information or to diagnose emissions-related problems. The test costs the same whether it is required or voluntary.

What happens if the DMV asks for a smog check on my 2000 or newer vehicle?

This usually means your vehicle's model year is recorded incorrectly in the DMV system. Contact the DMV with your vehicle's VIN and proof of the correct model year (such as your title or registration). The DMV can correct the record and remove the smog check requirement.