CA DMV Smog Inspections & Brake and Light Inspections

When a vehicle is sold, the seller must provide the buyer with a valid smog inspection certification at the time of sale or transfer. These certifications are valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. If a biennial smog certification was submitted to the DMV within 90 days before the vehicle transfer date, no inspection is required (though a vehicle inspection report may be needed for proof). It's important to note that smog certifications aren't necessary for gasoline-powered vehicles that are four years old or newer (determine the oldest-qualifying year model by subtracting three from the current year). However, this four-year rule doesn't apply to diesel-powered vehicles, and a smog transfer fee will be collected from the new owner.

If your vehicle failed the smog check inspection, The Smog Stop can quickly get you back on the road. We have solutions for all makes and models of vehicles, not to mention the experience to diagnose and repair you vehicle correctly the first time.

All vehicles registered in California are required to undergo smog inspection if they fall in to the category. Active Duty Military do have the option of registering their vehicle in their home of record state. Fortunately, The Tag Shop our DMV service provider can handle that for you. Call 619-609-3189 for more info

If your vehicle is registered in an area subject to the biennial smog certification program, you must submit evidence of a smog certification every other renewal period. However, starting January 1, 2005, owners of vehicles eight years old or newer will pay an annual smog abatement fee for the first six registration years instead of providing a biennial smog certification. Your department-issued registration renewal notice will indicate whether a smog certification is required. If it is, and you haven't had a smog inspection, you can still pay your registration fees to avoid late fees. However, you won't receive your new registration or year sticker until the DMV has received the smog information.