SMOG*:

When is a smog inspection required?  
Smog inspections are required for all vehicles except diesel powered vehicles, motorcycles, or vehicles with a year model 30 years old or older. Vehicles registered in areas subject to the biennial smog certification program are required to submit evidence of a smog certification every other renewal period.  

Vehicles that are four model years old or less are exempt from the biennial smog requirements for registration renewal.

Evidence of a current smog certification must be provided by a seller except when transfer occurs between a spouse, sibling, child, parent, grandparent, or grandchild. Smog certifications are good for 90 days from the date of issuance.

The inspection is not required on a transfer if a biennial smog certification was submitted to DMV within 90 days prior to the vehicle transfer date (a vehicle inspection report may be required for proof of certification).

How old does a vehicle have to be to qualify for a smog exemption?
Vehicles with a year model 30 years old or older are exempt from the smog certification requirements.

Example: The calendar year is 2003- 29 = 1974 exempt year model

The current calendar year minus 29 equals the year model exempt from smog certification

What if my car fails the inspection?  
DMV cannot provide technical information or advice in this area. We recommend that you call the California Department of Consumer Affairs' toll free number at 800-952-5210.

My car is new. Am I still required to get the biennial smog inspection?  
Vehicles that are four model years old, or less, are exempt from the biennial smog inspection for registration renewal. These vehicle owners will pay an annual $4 fee for the first four registration years.