Is Inspection Required for Registration in California?
California does not require safety inspections for vehicle registration or renewal. The California Department of Motor Vehicles processes registrations without mandating comprehensive safety checks. However, emissions testing through the Smog Check Program is required statewide for most vehicles.
Emissions Inspection Requirements in California
California operates a mandatory Smog Check Program administered by the Bureau of Automotive Repair. Emissions testing requirements vary by vehicle type, model year, and program area:
Vehicles requiring Smog Check:
- Gasoline vehicles: 1976 model-year and newer
- Diesel vehicles: 1998 model-year and newer (14,000 lbs GVWR or less)
- Hybrid vehicles
Vehicles exempt from Smog Check:
- Gasoline vehicles eight or fewer model years old (biennial inspection only)
- Gasoline vehicles four or fewer model years old (change of ownership only)
- Gasoline vehicles 1975 model-year and older
- Diesel vehicles 1997 model-year and older
- Electric vehicles
- Motorcycles
California divides the state into three program areas: Enhanced Areas (highest pollution, biennial testing required), Basic Areas (moderate pollution, biennial testing required), and Change of Ownership Areas (testing only when vehicle ownership changes).
California Vehicle Registration Requirements by County and Origin
| Vehicle Origin | Registration Type | VIN Inspection | Safety Inspection | Emissions Testing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Out-of-state | Initial | Required | Not required | Required* |
| Out-of-state | Renewal | Not required | Not required | Required* |
| In-state | Initial | Not required | Not required | Required* |
| In-state | Renewal | Not required | Not required | Required* |
*Exemptions apply based on vehicle type, model year, and fuel source as detailed above.
Contact Information
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Customer Service Center
P.O. Box 932345
Sacramento, CA 94232-3450
Phone: 1-800-777-0133
TTY: 1-800-368-4327
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Official Website: California DMV
Bureau of Automotive Repair - Smog Check Program
10949 North Mather Boulevard
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Phone: (800) 952-5210
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Official Website: Bureau of Automotive Repair
