How Much Does a California Smog Check Cost? (2026)
A California smog check costs whatever the station charges for the test, plus a fixed $8.25 state certificate fee when the car passes. On AppointAuto, listed prices are $49.75 for a regular check and $59.75 at a STAR station. Ask whether the $8.25 is included before you go.
What you pay
| Item | Who sets it | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Smog test | The station | Listed on AppointAuto: $49.75 regular, $59.75 STAR |
| Smog certificate | State of California | $8.25, only when the vehicle passes |
| Retest after a fail | The station | Varies; some stations offer a free or discounted retest |
What changes the price
- STAR or regular. STAR stations usually charge more. You only need one if your DMV notice says so (how to tell).
- Vehicle age. Cars from 2000 or newer get a quick test of the on-board diagnostics (OBD) system. Older cars get a tailpipe test, which takes longer and often costs more.
- Diesel. Diesel vehicles from 1998 or newer up to 14,000 lbs GVWR need a smog check and some stations price them separately.
Who needs a smog check
Most gasoline vehicles need one every two years at registration renewal, and when they are sold. Gasoline vehicles 8 model years old or newer skip the biennial check and pay a smog abatement fee instead. Electric vehicles and motorcycles are exempt.
Find a station
- Smog check in San Jose — 2 listings
- Smog check in Anaheim — 1 listing
- Smog check in Los Angeles — 1 listing
- Smog check in Sacramento — 1 listing
- Smog check in San Diego — 1 listing
- Smog check in San Francisco — 1 listing
- Smog check in Santa Clara — 1 listing
- Smog check in Sunnyvale — 1 listing
Frequently asked questions
How much does a smog check cost in California?
Each station sets its own test price. Listed prices on AppointAuto are $49.75 for a regular smog check and $59.75 for a STAR smog check. California also charges an $8.25 state certificate fee for every vehicle that passes; ask the station whether its price already includes it.
Which vehicles are exempt from the California smog check?
Gasoline vehicles 8 model years old or newer skip the biennial smog check and pay a smog abatement fee instead. Electric vehicles, motorcycles and gasoline vehicles from 1975 or earlier are exempt. Diesel vehicles from 1998 or newer with a gross vehicle weight rating up to 14,000 lbs do need a smog check.
How long is a smog certificate valid?
A passing smog certificate is valid for 90 days, so get the test within 90 days of your registration renewal or sale.
What happens if my car fails the smog check?
The station gives you a report showing why it failed. Have the car repaired at a licensed smog repair station and retest it. California's Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) can help eligible owners with repair costs or with retiring the vehicle.