LOWEST PRICE SMOG CHECK IN VISTA - NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY - CALL NOW (760) 536-3977

Clean Truck Check CARB Compliance, Call Now: (760) 536-3977

Clean Truck Check

Clean Truck Check Near Me

Clean Truck Check Near Me VISTA

Clean Truck Check

You can book a mobile diesel smog check with us online or call (760) 536-3977. We offer flexible times and will come to your location

California Clean Truck Check Program

Overview

California Clean Truck Check is a mandatory inspection and maintenance program designed to ensure heavy-duty vehicles operating in California meet emissions standards. This program helps reduce harmful pollutants from diesel trucks, improving air quality throughout the state and helping California meet its climate goals.

Types of Clean Truck Check Services

1. OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) Testing

Most newer heavy-duty vehicles (model year 2013 and newer) equipped with on-board diagnostic systems must undergo periodic OBD testing:

  • Tests engine and emissions control systems through the vehicle’s computerized diagnostic system
  • Verifies proper functioning of emissions components
  • Quick process that can be completed in approximately 15-30 minutes
  • Required every 6 months for most vehicles

2. Opacity Testing

For older vehicles (pre-2013) without OBD systems:

  • Measures the density of smoke emitted from the exhaust
  • Determines if particulate matter emissions exceed legal limits
  • Takes approximately 30-45 minutes to complete
  • Required annually for applicable vehicles

3. Visual Inspection

All heavy-duty vehicles must undergo visual inspections:

  • Checks for tampering with emissions control systems
  • Ensures all emissions components are present and properly connected
  • Verifies no visible smoke or leaks
  • Conducted alongside other testing methods

4. Roadside Emissions Monitoring

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) conducts random roadside emissions testing:

  • Uses remote sensing technology to measure emissions as vehicles drive by
  • Identifies high-emitting vehicles for follow-up inspections
  • Supplements the regular testing program
  • No action required by drivers unless contacted for follow-up

Requirements for Truckers

Who Must Comply

  • All heavy-duty diesel vehicles with a GVWR of 14,001+ pounds operating in California
  • Includes out-of-state trucks that enter California
  • Both fleet-owned and independent operator vehicles
  • Exemptions may apply for certain emergency, military, or historic vehicles

Testing Schedule

Vehicle Type Testing Frequency First Compliance Date
2013+ with OBD Every 6 months January 1, 2024
Pre-2013 without OBD Annual opacity test July 1, 2023
All vehicles Annual visual inspection Concurrent with other tests

Compliance Steps

  1. Register in CARB’s reporting system
    • Create an account in the TRUCRS (Truck Regulation Upload, Compliance, and Reporting System)
    • Provide vehicle and owner information
    • Pay the annual compliance fee
  2. Schedule testing at approved facilities
    • Find an authorized Heavy-Duty Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) testing location
    • Testing can be performed at certified truck stops, fleet facilities, or mobile testing units
    • Testing appointments can be scheduled online or by phone
  3. Complete required testing
    • Bring your vehicle and registration documents to the testing facility
    • Testing technicians will perform appropriate tests based on vehicle type
    • Results are electronically submitted to CARB
  4. Maintain compliance records
    • Keep digital or physical copies of test results
    • Store records for at least 4 years
    • Have documentation available during roadside inspections
  5. Address any failures promptly
    • If your vehicle fails testing, repairs must be completed within 90 days
    • Re-testing is required after repairs
    • Continued operation of non-compliant vehicles may result in penalties

Penalties for Non-Compliance

  • Fines ranging from $300-$1,800 per violation
  • Potential vehicle impoundment for repeat offenders
  • DMV registration holds
  • Restricted access to ports and intermodal facilities

Benefits of Compliance

  • Reduced air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions
  • Improved public health outcomes
  • Better fuel efficiency and potential cost savings
  • Avoiding costly penalties and operational disruptions
  • Contributing to California’s climate goals

Resources

  • Find authorized testing locations
  • Schedule testing appointments
  • Access compliance assistance
  • Review testing requirements
  • Get answers to frequently asked questions
  • Download the mobile compliance app

Smog Check Near me

Smog Check FAQ

What is a Test Only Station?

Test-Only stations are licensed by the state only to perform tests on vehicles. They are prohibited from performing any repair services. Gross Polluters can also be certified at these stations.

Who requires a Smog Check?

The Department of Motor Vehicles renewal notice will indicate whether a Smog Check is required to re- register your vehicle. Most areas of the state require vehicles to have a Smog Check performed every two years, when being sold, and when being initially registered in California.

Do I really need a Smog Check?

Not all vehicles must get a Smog Check. Smog Check need depends on the type of vehicle, the model-year, and the area in which the vehicle is registered. Additionally, some vehicles only need a Smog Check when they are being sold or being registered in California after previously being registered in another state.

What is a STAR smog check?

If you received the DMV registration renewal paper saying “SMOG Certification Required at a STAR station”, you are at the right place. Premier Star Smog is a Star Certified Smog Check Station. STAR Smog Station means, DMV has chosen your car to be inspected at a smog station which is monitored closely by the BAR (Bureau of Automotive Repair) and must conform to high standards established by the Bureau of Automotive Repairs.

What is the difference between a regular smog station and a STAR smog station?

STAR smog stations will be able to issue a certificate of compliance to a vehicle passing a smog check when a motorist is referred by the DMV to such a station for vehicle registration renewal. A non “star” station may not issue a certificate to the motorist’s vehicle. They may however, test and issue certificates to vehicles not directed by the DMV to a “STAR” smog check station.

How much does a test only smog check cost? Does a test only center charge more?

Smog test only stations are not allowed to profit or perform any auto repairs, whether smog check related or not. In the past smog test only centers typically charged more for their smog inspection in order to cover their expenses. In today’s market however, with competition being so great, and the fact that there are plenty of test only directed vehicles to go around, the cost of the test only smog check has been dramatically reduced.

How can I help my vehicle pass Smog Check?

Proper and regular maintenance according to your Owner’s Manual, and not tampering with the emissions control equipment are keys to passing Smog Check and lowering emissions from your vehicle. Also a good 15 minute drive helps to ensure a proper warm-up of all emission related components which helps out in the emissions part of the smog check.

What do I do if my vehicle fails Smog Check?

First and foremost we’ll help explain to you why you failed and some suggestions as to what to do next. You will also need to get your vehicle repaired so it can pass its Smog Check retest in order to complete your registration. How can I learn if I need smog check and what are the pre and post procedures? Please check California Bureau of Automotive Repair website for step by step procedures.

How can I find my vehicle’s smog check history?

Please refer to California Bureau of Automotive Repair website where you can enter license plate or vehicle identification number (VIN) to check the history.

What should I know about the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP)?

You may qualify for up to $500 in financial assistance to repair your car if it requires a Smog Check at a Test-Only station and failed that test. The Bureau of Automotive Repair Retirement Program is now offering $1000.00 for eligible motorists to voluntarily retire their high-polluting vehicles. If you don’t think it’s worth repairing the Bureau of Automotive Repair may buy your car!

How do I qualify for CAP?

CAP offers two options for consumers whose vehicles fail their biennial Smog Check.

What is a Gross Polluter?

Some vehicles that fail their smog inspections give off such high levels of pollution that a category called “Gross Polluter” was created. BAR identifies these vehicles to encourage their immediate repair. Gross Polluters are some of the worst polluting vehicles on California roadways.

Accessibility Statement