How often do I need a smog check in California?
For the great majority of California drivers, the answer is: every two years, tied to your vehicle registration renewal. But there are exceptions — and a few situations that trigger an off-cycle smog check you might not see coming.
The basic rule: every 2 years at registration renewal
California requires a smog check for most vehicles every other year as a condition of renewing your registration. The DMV will print a notice on your renewal that says either "smog certification required" or includes "STAR" if you've been directed to a STAR certified station like M & P in Long Beach.
If your vehicle is due, you generally cannot complete the registration renewal online or by mail until a current smog certificate has been transmitted to the DMV by a licensed station.
Which vehicles are exempt?
You do not need a biennial smog check if any of these apply:
- Your vehicle is a gasoline-powered car or light truck of model year 1975 or older
- Your vehicle is a diesel of model year 1997 or older, or has a GVWR over 14,000 lbs
- You drive a motorcycle (smog checks aren't required)
- You own a fully electric vehicle
- You own certain natural-gas-powered vehicles with a GVWR over 14,000 lbs
- Your gasoline vehicle is 8 model years old or newer — you instead pay a small smog abatement fee at registration
The "8 model years old or newer" rule is the one most new-car owners care about. Brand-new vehicles skip the smog test entirely until they age into the program.
When you'll need an off-cycle smog check
Even if you're not due at renewal, California requires a current smog certificate when:
- You sell or transfer ownership of a vehicle 4 model years old or older. The smog has to be less than 90 days old. (Sales between immediate family members are sometimes exempt.)
- You bring a vehicle into California from another state to register it for the first time.
- The DMV directs you to a STAR station. Roughly 1 in 5 vehicles is routed to a STAR certified station each cycle. Here's how STAR stations work →
What if I just bought a used car?
If the previous owner sold you a vehicle 4 model years old or older, they were legally required to provide a smog certificate dated within 90 days of the sale. If they didn't, you'll need to bring the car in for a smog check before the DMV will transfer the title to your name.
Quick tip: if you're about to buy a used car, ask the seller for the smog certificate before you hand over money. It's a small check that can save you a big headache.
How can I find out if my car is due?
The fastest way is to check your DMV portal or the renewal notice the DMV mails you. If the notice references a smog check, you're due. If you can't find your notice, call us at (562) 218-1280 — we can look up your vehicle in the BAR system and tell you in 30 seconds.
Where to go for your smog check in Long Beach
M & P Auto Repair is a STAR certified smog check station at 2000 Orange Ave in Long Beach. We test light-duty cars, SUVs, and pickups, and the average visit takes 15 to 20 minutes. Walk in any time Mon–Sat between 8AM and 5PM, or call ahead.
Learn about our smog check service Call (562) 218-1280