STAR stations are California's official emissions testing network, and you can find one by ZIP code on the state's website

California's STAR (Smog Check Referee information Request) program runs the state's official emissions testing stations. These are not private shops — they are government-operated or government-contracted facilities that perform the same smog test your regular mechanic does, but with state oversight and the ability to handle vehicles that fail or need referee testing.

To find a STAR station near you, go to the California Bureau of Automotive Repair website (bar.ca.gov), click on "Find a STAR Station," enter your ZIP code, and the map will show every STAR location within your area. Each listing includes the station's address, phone number, and hours. You can call ahead to confirm they have an appointment slot, though walk-ins are usually accepted.

STAR stations test the same way regular stations do — they plug in your vehicle's diagnostic port and measure emissions. The difference is that STAR stations are equipped to handle referee testing, which is what happens if you fail at a regular station and want a second opinion, or if your vehicle needs special testing procedures.

Key Takeaways

  • Find STAR stations by entering your ZIP code on the California Bureau of Automotive Repair website at bar.ca.gov.
  • STAR stations perform the same emissions test as regular smog shops but are state-operated and handle referee cases.
  • You do not need a referral to visit a STAR station — you can go directly if you prefer state oversight.
  • Call ahead to check hours and appointment availability, though many STAR stations accept walk-ins during business hours.
  • The test fee at STAR stations is set by the state and is typically lower than at private shops.

When to go to a STAR station instead of a regular shop

You have three main reasons to choose a STAR station over a private smog shop. First, if you failed a test at a regular station and want a referee test — a second opinion from a state facility — you must go to a STAR station. The referee test costs less than a regular test and can overturn a failed result if the first shop made an error.

Second, if your vehicle is older, has high mileage, or has had recent repairs, a STAR station may be required by law to perform additional testing that a regular shop is not equipped for. The state's website will tell you which testing category your vehicle falls into when you enter its year and model.

Third, some drivers straightforward prefer the transparency of a state-run facility. STAR stations cannot sell you repairs — they only test. A regular shop can pressure you to fix something when ready, but a STAR station will only tell you whether your vehicle passed or failed.

What to bring and what to expect at your appointment

Bring your vehicle registration and a valid photo ID. The technician will ask for your vehicle's make, model, year, and mileage, so have that information ready. The test itself takes 10 to 15 minutes. The technician will connect a probe to your vehicle's diagnostic port (usually under the steering wheel or dashboard) and run the emissions measurement.

You will receive a printed receipt on the spot. If you pass, the receipt is your proof of compliance — you can take it to the DMV or print it from your account if the test was recorded electronically. If you fail, the receipt will show which emissions standards your vehicle did not meet, and you will have 30 days to repair the vehicle and retest.

The cost of a STAR test is set by the state and does not vary by location. As of 2024, a basic smog test costs around $30 to $50, though prices may vary slightly. Some STAR stations accept cash, credit, or debit; call ahead if you have a payment preference.

How to use the California Bureau of Automotive Repair map

Go to bar.ca.gov and look for the "Find a STAR Station" link, usually on the homepage or under "Consumer Information." Click it and you will see a search box. Type your ZIP code and click search. The map will populate with all STAR stations in your area, sorted by distance.

Each station listing shows its address, phone number, hours of operation, and sometimes a link to its website. Some stations are open Monday through Friday only; others are open Saturday mornings. A few are open seven days a week. Click on a station to see its full details, or call the number listed to confirm they have availability.

If no STAR stations appear in your ZIP code, expand your search to a nearby ZIP code or call the Bureau of Automotive Repair directly at 1-800-952-5210 to find the closest location. Rural areas may have fewer stations, so you may need to travel farther than you expect.

What happens if you fail your STAR test

If your vehicle fails, you have 30 days to repair it and return for a retest at any smog station — not necessarily the same one. The failed test receipt will show which emissions standards your vehicle did not meet, which helps a mechanic know what to fix.

If you believe the test result was wrong, you can request a referee test at a STAR station. A referee test costs less than a regular test and is performed by a state technician. You must request the referee test within 15 days of your failed test. Bring your failed test receipt to the STAR station and ask for a referee test.

If you pass the referee test, your vehicle is cleared. If you fail the referee test as well, you will need to repair the vehicle and retest. Some repairs are expensive, so get a mechanic's estimate before deciding whether to proceed.

STAR stations versus private smog shops: what's the difference

Both STAR stations and private smog shops perform the same emissions test and use the same equipment. The main differences are oversight, cost, and what happens after the test. STAR stations are state-operated or state-contracted, so they follow strict protocols and cannot sell repairs. Private shops can sell repairs, which creates a conflict of interest — they may recommend unnecessary work.

STAR test fees are set by the state and are usually lower than private shop fees. Private shops can charge what they want. If you fail at a private shop, you can request a referee test at a STAR station for a lower fee, which is why some drivers go to a private shop first and then to STAR only if they fail.

STAR stations are also required to handle referee testing, which private shops are not. If you need a second opinion on a failed test, you must go to a STAR station.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make an appointment online at a STAR station?

Most STAR stations do not have online booking. Call the station directly to ask about appointment availability. Many accept walk-ins during business hours, so you can also show up without calling ahead, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Do I need to bring my vehicle's keys or just the registration?

You need to be present with your vehicle. Bring your registration and a valid photo ID. The technician will need access to your vehicle to connect the diagnostic equipment and start the engine, so you must be there.

What if the STAR station near me has very long wait times?

You can visit any STAR station in California, not just the closest one. If your nearest station is busy, try one in a neighboring ZIP code. Call ahead to ask about current wait times, or visit early in the morning or on a weekday when traffic is lighter.

Can a STAR station tell me what repairs my vehicle needs?

No. STAR stations only test and report results. They will not diagnose what is wrong with your vehicle or recommend repairs. If you fail, take the test results to a mechanic, who can diagnose the problem and give you a repair estimate.

Is the STAR test result valid at the DMV right away?

Yes. If you pass, the STAR station will provide a receipt or electronic record that is valid when ready. You can take it to the DMV or renew your registration online using the test result. The result is typically valid for 30 days, so do not wait too long to register your vehicle.