Who can skip the smog check requirement
California requires most vehicles to pass a smog check every two years, but certain vehicles and owners are exempt from this requirement. The main exemptions are: vehicles that are brand new (less than four model years old), vehicles that are 1975 or older, electric vehicles, and vehicles registered as classic cars or street rods. Some vehicles also may have access to for a one-time exemption if they fail the test and the owner chooses not to repair them.
The state also grants temporary exemptions in specific situations. If you recently moved to California and registered your vehicle here, you may not need a smog check for your first registration. If your vehicle is in a smog abatement program or has a pending repair, you might receive a waiver. The rules vary depending on your vehicle's age, fuel type, and how it was registered.
Key Takeaways
- New vehicles (less than four model years old), vehicles from 1975 or earlier, and electric vehicles are permanently exempt from smog checks in California.
- Classic cars and street rods registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles under those special categories do not need smog checks.
- If your vehicle fails a smog check and you decide not to repair it, you can request a one-time exemption to keep your registration current.
- Your vehicle registration documents will show whether your vehicle is exempt; if you are unsure, contact the DMV or check your registration renewal notice.
New vehicles and recent model years
Vehicles that are less than four model years old do not need a smog check. This means a 2024 vehicle registered in 2024 would be exempt, as would a 2023 model registered in 2024. The exemption is based on the model year of the vehicle, not the year you bought it or registered it.
Once your vehicle reaches four model years old, it becomes subject to smog check requirements. For example, a 2020 model year vehicle would need its first smog check when you renew your registration in 2024 or later. You will receive notice in your registration renewal paperwork if your vehicle now requires a smog check.
Older vehicles and classic car registration
Vehicles manufactured in 1975 or earlier are permanently exempt from smog checks, regardless of their condition or how often they are driven. This exemption recognizes that these vehicles were built before modern emissions standards existed.
If you own a vehicle from 1976 or later that you want to register as a classic car or street rod, you can explore for a special registration category through the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Classic car registration typically requires the vehicle to be at least 25 years old and to be maintained in original or restored condition. Street rod registration has different requirements but also exempts the vehicle from smog checks. These special registrations usually cost more than standard registration and may limit how often you can drive the vehicle.
Electric and zero-emission vehicles
All electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are exempt from smog checks. This includes battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. The exemption applies regardless of the vehicle's age or model year.
If you own a plug-in hybrid, the exemption applies even though the vehicle has a gas engine. You do not need to prove that you charge it regularly or drive it in electric mode; the exemption is automatic based on the vehicle type.
One-time exemption for failed vehicles
If your vehicle fails a smog check and you decide not to repair it, you can request a one-time exemption from the referee station where you took the test or from the California Bureau of Automotive Repair. This exemption allows you to renew your registration without passing the test, but it can only be used once per vehicle.
To receive this exemption, you must have documentation of the failed test. The referee station or Bureau of Automotive Repair will provide you with an exemption certificate. You will need to present this certificate when you renew your registration at the DMV. After you use the one-time exemption, your vehicle will be subject to normal smog check requirements again at the next registration renewal.
How to learn about your vehicle is exempt
The easiest way to check whether your vehicle is exempt is to look at your vehicle registration renewal notice. California includes exemption information on the notice you receive in the mail. If the notice says your vehicle does not need a smog check, you are exempt.
You can also contact the California Department of Motor Vehicles directly by phone or through their website. Have your vehicle's license plate number and vehicle identification number (VIN) ready. The DMV can confirm your exemption status and explain which rule applies to your vehicle. If you believe your vehicle should be exempt but your renewal notice says it needs a smog check, you can request a review from the DMV.
Vehicles that moved to California from another state
If you recently moved to California and registered a vehicle that was previously registered in another state, you may receive a temporary exemption from the smog check requirement for your first California registration. This exemption typically covers your first registration renewal in California, giving you time to understand the state's requirements.
After your first renewal, your vehicle will be subject to the normal smog check rules based on its age and type. Check your registration renewal notice to see whether your vehicle is exempt for the current registration period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a smog check if my car is registered as a classic car?
No, if your vehicle is registered with the DMV under the classic car or street rod category, it is exempt from smog checks. You must have the special registration designation on your registration documents. Standard registration does not include this exemption, even for older vehicles.
My vehicle is 3 years old. Do I need a smog check?
No. Vehicles less than four model years old are exempt. Once your vehicle reaches four model years old at your next registration renewal, you will need to begin getting smog checks every two years.
Can I use the one-time exemption more than once?
No, the one-time exemption can only be used once per vehicle. After you use it, your vehicle must pass a smog check at every subsequent registration renewal, unless another exemption applies (such as the vehicle becoming old enough for classic car registration).
What if I bought a used vehicle and the seller said it was exempt?
Check your registration renewal notice or contact the DMV to confirm. The exemption status is tied to the vehicle itself, not the owner. If the vehicle qualifies for an exemption, it will remain exempt under your ownership. If it does not, you will need to arrange a smog check before renewing your registration.
Are hybrid vehicles exempt from smog checks?
Standard hybrid vehicles (those with both a gas engine and electric motor that cannot be plugged in) are not exempt. Only plug-in hybrids and fully electric vehicles are exempt. If you own a standard hybrid, you will need a smog check based on the vehicle's age and model year.