STAR stations are California's official emissions testing network, and you can find one using the state's online locator tool or by calling your county air district

California's STAR (Smog Test Referee) program runs the state's official emissions testing stations. These are not private shops — they are government-certified facilities that perform the test required to renew your vehicle registration. To find one near you, use the California Bureau of Automotive Repair's online station locator at bar.ca.gov, or call your county's air quality management district directly for a list of nearby locations.

The locator tool lets you search by zip code, city, or county. It shows you each station's address, phone number, hours, and whether they test your vehicle type (some stations handle only light-duty cars; others also test heavy trucks or motorcycles). Many stations are open evenings and Saturdays, though hours vary by location.

If you cannot find a station online or the tool is not working, your county air district can give you names and phone numbers over the phone. You can also ask your mechanic or dealership — they often know which STAR stations are closest and least busy.

Key Takeaways

  • The California Bureau of Automotive Repair's online locator at bar.ca.gov is the fastest way to find STAR stations by zip code or city.
  • Your county air quality management district can provide a phone list of stations if you prefer to call rather than search online.
  • STAR stations are government-certified and required to follow the same testing procedures statewide, so location is your only real choice.
  • Most stations are open evenings and Saturdays, but hours vary — call ahead to confirm they are open and to ask about wait times.
  • Bring your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and a valid ID; the test itself takes 10 to 20 minutes.

What the online locator shows you

The Bureau of Automotive Repair's station locator displays the name, street address, and phone number of each STAR station. It also lists the hours of operation, which often include evening slots and weekend times. The tool tells you which vehicle types each station tests — this matters if you own a motorcycle, a truck over a certain weight, or a vehicle older than a certain year, because not all stations handle every category.

The locator also shows whether a station is currently accepting new customers or has a full schedule. Some busy locations may ask you to call back later or come at a slower time of day. Calling ahead is always a good idea, especially on weekends or right before the registration important date.

How to search by location

Go to bar.ca.gov and select the station locator link. Enter your zip code, city name, or county. The tool will return a map and a list of stations within a reasonable distance. You can sort by distance or by name. Click on any station to see its full details: exact address, phone number, hours, and what types of vehicles it tests.

If the online tool is slow or you do not have internet access, call your county air quality management district. They maintain the same list and can read it to you over the phone. County district phone numbers are listed on the California Air Resources Board website (arb.ca.gov) under "District Contacts."

What to expect when you arrive

Bring your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and a valid photo ID. The test itself takes 10 to 20 minutes. The technician will connect your vehicle to a machine that measures tailpipe emissions. For vehicles made after 1996, the test also reads your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system (OBD) to check for emissions-related fault codes.

The test costs money — the amount varies by county and vehicle type, but typically ranges from $30 to $70. STAR stations accept cash and card. If your vehicle passes, you receive a certificate when ready that you can print or show to the DMV when you renew your registration. If it fails, the station gives you a report explaining what needs to be fixed.

What to do if your vehicle fails the test

A failed test does not mean you cannot renew your registration. You have 30 days from the test date to fix the problem and retest at any STAR station. Some repairs are straightforward and cheap — a loose gas cap, a faulty oxygen sensor, or a misfire that the engine computer can fix. Others are more expensive, like a catalytic converter replacement.

If the repair cost is very high, you may be able to get a Gross Polluter Abatement Program waiver or a Smog Check Delay from your county, depending on your vehicle's age and your income. Call your county air district to ask whether you may have access to. These programs are not automatic — you have to request them and provide proof of the repair estimate.

Differences between STAR stations and other testing locations

STAR stations are the only places authorized to perform the official smog test required for registration. Some private repair shops and dealerships also run STAR stations, but they are still part of the same state network and follow the same rules. The test result is the same no matter which STAR station you use.

Do not confuse STAR stations with smog check stations that are not STAR-certified. Only a STAR station's test counts toward your registration renewal. If you go to the wrong place, you will have to pay for the test again and go back to a STAR station.

Timing and registration important date

Your vehicle's smog test is valid for 30 days. Plan to test within that window before your registration expires. If your registration is already expired, you can still test, but you cannot legally drive the vehicle until you renew it. Some people test early — 60 to 90 days before expiration — to give themselves time to fix any problems and retest if needed.

The DMV website shows your registration expiration date. You can renew online, by mail, or in person, but you must have a passing smog test certificate (or a waiver) before the DMV will process the renewal. Bring the certificate with you or upload it if you renew online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I test at any STAR station or do I have to go to a specific one?

You can test at any STAR station in California. The test result is recognized statewide. Some people choose a station based on location, hours, or how busy it is, but the test itself is the same everywhere.

What if I cannot find a STAR station near me?

Call your county air quality management district. They can tell you the nearest station and may be able to tell you about mobile testing units or special accommodations if you live in a very remote area. Some counties offer limited mobile testing during certain times of year.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

Most STAR stations accept walk-ins, but call ahead to ask about wait times, especially on weekends or near registration important date. Some busy locations may ask you to come back at a slower time or may have a wait of an hour or more.

What if my vehicle is too old or too new to test?

Vehicles made before 1976 are generally exempt from smog testing. Vehicles made after 1975 must test. Some very new vehicles (usually less than 4 years old) may be exempt in certain counties. Check your registration notice or call your county air district to confirm your vehicle's testing requirement.

Can I retest at a different STAR station if I fail?

Yes. You can retest at any STAR station within 30 days of the failed test. You do not have to return to the same location. Some people choose a different station hoping for a different result, but the test procedure is the same everywhere, so the result usually reflects the actual condition of your vehicle.