Smog Check in California
AppointAuto lists 9 smog check stations in 8 California cities, 9 of them STAR-certified. Pick your city to see addresses, phone numbers and listed prices. California adds an $8.25 certificate fee to every passing test.
Choose your city
- 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
Smog check prices
| Service | Listed price | Typical time |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Smog Check (State Inspection) | $49.75 | 20 min |
| STAR Certified Smog Check | $59.75 | 25 min |
Guides
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.
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.
How long does a smog check take?
Usually 20 to 30 minutes for a car built in 2000 or later, where the test reads the on-board diagnostics (OBD) system. Older vehicles get a tailpipe test that can take longer.
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.
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.
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.
Will a check engine light make me fail?
Yes. A lit check engine light is an automatic fail in California. Fix the cause first, and do not disconnect the battery or clear codes right before the test: the car needs to complete its readiness monitors through normal driving.