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CURRENT RULECaliforniaInspection / emissions✓ Human reviewed

Are your California Smog Check signs, systems, and tools inspection-ready?

California BAR's station checklist covers posted licenses and notices, price lists, the California Vehicle Inspection System (Cal-VIS), a reliable connection and station-appropriate emissions inspection equipment. Specific analyzers and systems depend on whether the station actually conducts tailpipe testing and its license type; not every station needs all listed equipment.

Quick check

Check BAR signs and prices, license display, Cal-VIS setup, and station-type equipment.

At a glance
JurisdictionCalifornia
TopicInspection / emissions
VerifiedOct 15, 2026
Review cadenceBefore initial station inspection, after equipment changes and during routine operational reviews.
When this applies

Your California business is a licensed Smog Check station preparing for operation or a BAR station inspection.

Walk the BAR Smog Check checklist. Verify posted station/consumer signs and prices, valid licenses, current Cal-VIS enrollment, and calibrated approved equipment appropriate to your actual test and repair services.

Official evidence

Source and verification

Verified
Oct 15, 2026
Applies to
Inspection / emissions, General mechanical, Mixed services, Dealership fixed ops
Useful official references

Find the state’s source documents

Official inspection manual and agency updates →

Quick-reference compliance planning only; not legal advice or an exhaustive statement of every applicable Federal, state, or local rule. Always verify the official source.

Regulatory history

Related California changes

View state page →
UPCOMINGJan 1, 2028California enacted phased Smog Check exemptions for qualifying collector vehicles beginning in 2028California Smog Check stations should follow BAR's implementation rulemaking and update eligibility advice only when the regulatory …Open update →UPCOMINGJan 1, 2027California's new vehicle-glass law adds ADAS disclosures, calibration notices, and insured-repair proceduresIf your California operation is primarily an automotive glass replacement business, review SB 988 before January 1, 2027. Update win…Open update →UPCOMINGJan 1, 2027California law expressly recognizes electronic written auto-repair estimatesCalifornia auto repair dealers using email, text, or digital estimates should confirm their workflow still satisfies the Automotive …Open update →UPCOMINGJan 1, 2027Cal-VIS prepared for 2027 vehicle-noise compliance requirementIf your work depends on BAR Referee noise inspections, review BAR's implementation information before January 1, 2027.Open update →