How Long Does a Smog Check Take in California?

What happens during the inspection

BAR says a Smog Check may include:

• a visual inspection of the emissions control system,
• a functional inspection of the emissions control system,
• an on-board diagnostic (OBD) system check, for most 2000 and newer model year vehicles, and
• a tailpipe emissions test, for pre-2000 model year vehicles.

What can make a smog check take longer or fail

These come from BAR’s preparation advice:

• The check engine light is on. BAR says a vehicle will not pass with it on, so get the problem repaired first.
• The battery was recently disconnected or replaced. Drive the vehicle for a week or two so the readiness monitors reset before the test.
• The vehicle’s software is modified. Restore the manufacturer’s original settings, or a version approved by the California Air Resources Board. Modified or non-approved software causes a fail.

How to get in and out faster

• Bring your DMV registration renewal notice, which BAR says helps the station verify your vehicle information.
• Read the notice. If it says “Smog Certification Required at a STAR station,” go to a STAR station, or you will need to come back.
• Call two or three stations. Ask about the wait, whether they take walk-ins, and the price. BAR does not regulate prices, and the station must give you an estimate you approve before the inspection starts.

After the inspection

You receive a vehicle inspection report showing whether the vehicle passed. If it passed, the station issues a smog certificate that is sent electronically to the DMV and is valid for 90 days. Then complete your registration renewal with the DMV. You can look up past results with BAR’s inspection history tool.

Find a station by city

These are the cities with the most BAR-licensed stations. Every station is listed with address, phone number and BAR license number. See all 83 cities.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a smog check take?

BAR says an inspection usually takes about 30 minutes. That covers the inspection itself, not time spent waiting at the station.

Does a newer car take less time than an older one?

BAR describes the inspection as a visual check, a functional check and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) check for most 2000 and newer vehicles, and a tailpipe emissions test for vehicles older than 2000. The tailpipe test is an extra step on older vehicles.

How long is a smog certificate good for?

BAR says the certificate is valid for 90 days.

What if my car fails?

The station gives you a vehicle inspection report showing the result. Repair the problem and have the vehicle inspected again. Our failed smog check guide covers repairs and BAR assistance.