Auto Research Center

Who is responsible for getting a Smog Check performed when a vehicle is being sold?
California Vehicle Code section 24007(b)(2) states that it is the responsibility of the seller to provide a valid smog certificate at the time of delivery of the vehicle to the buyer.

Do I need a Smog Check if I’m selling my vehicle and recently had it tested to renew its registration in California?

California Vehicle Code section 4000.1(d)(1) specifies that a Smog Check certificate is not needed upon changing ownership if the application for transfer is submitted to DMV within 90 days of the vehicle receiving a Smog Check certificate. Therefore, if your vehicle received certification of a passing Smog Check within 90 days of the sale, another Smog Check certificate is not required to transfer ownership.

Consumer Assistance Program
Repair Assistance

Under the Repair Assistance option, income-eligible consumers who meet eligibility requirements may receive up to $500 in emissions-related repairs at a STAR Test-and-Repair station after their vehicle fails its biennial Smog Check inspection.

To determine your eligibility, you must apply online or mail a completed application to CAP. Applying online reduces the processing time and allows you to check the status of your application.

Generally, completed Repair Assistance applications are processed within two (2) weeks. Once your application is processed, a determination letter will be mailed to you. Please note that CAP is unable to determine a consumer’s eligibility until the application is processed.

We encourage you to review the information provided in the links below before submitting an application. There may be issues such as vehicle registration or Smog Check requirements that must be addressed before applying.

Program Eligibility and Smog Check Inspection Requirements ( Requisitos de la elegibilidad del programa y de la inspección del smog )
Frequently Asked Questions ( Preguntas Frecuentes )
Income Verification ( Verificación del Ingreso Familiar )
STAR Test and Repair Stations ( Estaciones De Reparo y Examen De STAR )
To apply online, please have your vehicle registration or title available.

STAR stations are Smog Check stations that meet higher performance standards established by the Bureau of Automotive Repair. Some STAR stations are licensed to perform only tests, while others are licensed to perform both tests and repairs. The station is required to post a sign on the services it performs.

State law requires that a percentage of vehicles have their Smog Check Inspections performed at a STAR station. If your DMV renewal notice states your vehicle requires a Smog Check at a STAR station, you must take your vehicle to a STAR station for an inspection. Auto Research is a Star Station.