what is a smog check

A smog check is a test of a vehicles engine emissions performed at a licensed smog testing facility. The test is designed to ensure that the vehicle is not emitting harmful pollutants into the air. Smog checks are regulated by the U.S. government, and California has the toughest standards in the nation. The requirements for a smog check vary depending on the state, the type of vehicle, the model year, and the area in which the vehicle is registered. In California, for example, vehicles that were manufactured in 1976 or later are required to participate in the biennial smog check program in participating counties. Vehicles that are six or less model years old are not required to have the biennial smog check. A smog check inspection is performed by a station that has been licensed by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) . Depending on the situation, the owner may be required to take the vehicle to a test-only station, one that can perform the smog check test, but cannot make repairs, or a test-and-repair station, one that can both perform the smog check and repair the vehicle. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) sends a registration renewal notice which indicates if a smog check is required. If the DMV requires a smog check for a vehicle, the owner must comply with the notice within 90 days and provide a completed smog check certificate.