Burbank's Smog Check Requirement and Your Vehicle

Burbank follows California's statewide smog check program, which means you must pass an emissions test before you can register or renew your vehicle registration. The test measures whether your car's exhaust meets state air quality standards. If your vehicle fails, you cannot complete registration until you repair it and pass a retest.

Not every vehicle needs a smog check every year. Newer cars (generally 1975 and newer) need testing every two years starting at model year 1976, though some newer vehicles may be exempt depending on their age and type. Vehicles older than 1975 are exempt from smog check requirements statewide. Diesel vehicles, motorcycles, and some other vehicle types have different rules.

The California Department of Consumer Affairs oversees the smog check program, but the actual testing happens at Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) certified stations throughout Burbank and Los Angeles County. You choose where to get tested — there is no single location you must use.

Key Takeaways

  • Burbank requires smog checks as part of California's statewide emissions program, and you cannot register your vehicle without a passing test result.
  • Most vehicles need testing every two years; your registration notice will tell you whether your car is due this year.
  • You must use a Bureau of Automotive Repair certified station, but you can choose any certified location in or near Burbank.
  • If you fail, you have 30 days to repair your vehicle and retest at no additional charge at the same station.
  • The test costs vary by station and vehicle type, but typically ranges from around $30 to $70 for a basic smog check.

How to Find a Certified Smog Check Station in Burbank

The Bureau of Automotive Repair maintains a searchable database of all certified smog check stations on its website. You can search by city, zip code, or station name. Burbank is in the 91501, 91502, and 91505 zip codes, so searching those areas will show you nearby options.

When you call a station to schedule, ask whether they perform smog checks on your vehicle type (some stations specialize in certain makes or vehicle classes) and what their current wait time is. Many stations can fit you in within a few days, though busy periods may require longer waits. Some stations offer online scheduling.

Bring your vehicle registration, proof of ownership, and a valid photo ID when you go in for testing. The test itself usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. You will receive a printed smog check certificate if you pass, which you then submit to the Department of Motor Vehicles when you renew your registration.

What Happens If Your Vehicle Fails the Smog Check

A failed smog check means your vehicle's emissions are above California's limits for one or more pollutants. The station will provide you with a detailed report showing which emissions failed and what the readings were. This report helps a mechanic understand what repairs might be needed.

You have 30 days from the test date to repair your vehicle and return to the same station for a free retest. You do not pay again for the retest — the original test fee covers it. If you pass the retest within 30 days, you receive your certificate and can complete registration.

If you do not retest within 30 days, you will need to pay for a new smog check at a different station. Common repairs for failed smog checks include replacing the oxygen sensor, fixing a faulty catalytic converter, or addressing engine timing issues. A mechanic can often diagnose the problem based on the smog check report.

Smog Check Exemptions and Special Cases

Vehicles manufactured before 1975 do not require smog checks in California, regardless of where they are registered. Diesel-powered vehicles registered after January 1, 1998 have different testing requirements than gasoline vehicles. Motorcycles, trailers, and some other vehicle types are also exempt.

If your vehicle is brand new (current model year), you may be exempt from smog check for the first registration. Check your registration notice or contact the Department of Motor Vehicles to confirm whether your specific vehicle is due for testing this year.

Some vehicles with very low mileage or those that have not been driven may may have access to for a waiver, though this is rare. The smog check station can advise you on whether your situation qualifies for any exemptions or waivers.

Timing Your Smog Check Before Registration Renewal

Your vehicle registration notice will show whether a smog check is required for your renewal. The notice arrives about 60 days before your registration expires. You can get your smog check done anytime during that 60-day window — there is no requirement to wait until the last minute.

Plan to get tested at least two weeks before your registration expires. This gives you time to address any repairs if you fail, retest, and still submit your certificate to the Department of Motor Vehicles before the important date. If you wait until the last few days and fail, you may not have time to repair and retest before your registration lapses.

Once you have your passing smog check certificate, you can renew your registration online through the Department of Motor Vehicles website, by mail, or in person at a local DMV office. You do not need to return to the smog check station after passing.

Costs and Payment for Smog Checks in Burbank

Smog check fees are set by individual stations and vary based on vehicle type and the type of test performed. A standard smog check for a gasoline vehicle typically costs between $30 and $70. Some stations charge more for trucks, SUVs, or vehicles with special equipment.

Payment methods vary by station — most accept cash and credit cards, though you should confirm when you call to schedule. If you fail and need a retest, the retest is free at the same station within 30 days. If you go to a different station after 30 days, you will pay the full fee again.

Some repair shops that perform smog checks may offer discounts if you also have them do the repairs needed to pass. Ask about package pricing when you call, but remember that you are not required to use the same shop for repairs — you can take your failed report to any mechanic you trust.

Understanding Your Smog Check Results

A passing smog check result shows that your vehicle's emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrocarbons (HC) are all within California's limits for your vehicle's model year and type. The certificate lists the specific readings and confirms that your vehicle met the standard.

If you fail, the report will show which pollutants exceeded the limit and by how much. This information helps a mechanic narrow down the likely cause. For example, high carbon monoxide often points to a fuel system problem, while high nitrogen oxides may indicate an engine timing or oxygen sensor issue.

Keep your passing smog check certificate in a safe place. You will need it to complete your registration renewal, and it is proof that your vehicle met emissions standards on the test date. The Department of Motor Vehicles will also have a record of it once you submit your registration renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a smog check before my registration notice arrives?

Yes. You can get tested anytime, even if your registration does not expire for several months. However, the smog check certificate is only valid for a limited time, so check with the station about how long your results remain valid before scheduling too far in advance.

What if I just moved to Burbank — do I need a smog check to register my car here?

If you are transferring registration from another state or county, California requires a smog check before you can register your vehicle in Burbank. The requirement applies to most vehicles, regardless of where they were previously registered. Check your registration paperwork or contact the Department of Motor Vehicles to confirm.

Can I drive my car while waiting for a retest after failing?

Yes, you can drive your vehicle while it is being repaired and before your retest. However, your registration will eventually expire if you do not complete the smog check process. Once your registration expires, driving the vehicle becomes illegal, so plan your repairs and retest before that date arrives.

Do I need an appointment for a smog check, or can I just walk in?

Most certified stations accept walk-ins, but calling ahead or scheduling online is recommended, especially during busy times. Wait times vary by station and time of day. Scheduling ensures you do not have a long wait and that the station has availability for your vehicle type.

What should I do if I think my smog check result is wrong?

If you believe the test was performed incorrectly, you can request a retest at a different Bureau of Automotive Repair certified station. You will need to pay the full fee for the new test. Keep your original failed report and bring it to the new station so they can compare results.