STAR vs Regular Smog Check: Which One Do You Need?
You need a STAR station only if your DMV renewal notice says "Smog Certification Required at STAR Station". Otherwise any licensed smog check station works. STAR stations can test every vehicle, so choosing one is never wrong, but it may cost a little more.
Quick check
| Your DMV notice says | Where to go |
|---|---|
| "Smog Certification Required" (no STAR) | Any licensed smog check station, including STAR stations |
| "Smog Certification Required at STAR Station" | A STAR-certified station |
| Test-Only station required | A STAR Test-Only station |
What STAR means
STAR stations are licensed smog check stations that meet extra performance standards set by California's Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR). BAR monitors their results more closely than other stations.
STAR stations near you
- STAR smog check in San Jose
- STAR smog check in Anaheim
- STAR smog check in Los Angeles
- STAR smog check in Sacramento
- STAR smog check in San Diego
- STAR smog check in San Francisco
- STAR smog check in Santa Clara
- STAR smog check in Sunnyvale
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a STAR station?
Your DMV renewal notice tells you. If it says "Smog Certification Required at STAR Station", only a STAR-certified station can certify the car. If it does not mention STAR, any licensed smog check station can test it, and STAR stations can do regular checks too.
Why was my car sent to a STAR station?
The Bureau of Automotive Repair directs some vehicles to STAR stations, for example vehicles whose make and model year have a higher chance of failing, and a share chosen at random. Being directed does not mean anything is wrong with your car.
What is a STAR Test-Only station?
A STAR station that tests vehicles but does not repair them. If your notice says the vehicle must be tested at a Test-Only station, a STAR Test-and-Repair station cannot certify it.
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.