Right Column

Getting A Smog Check

  • Steps
  • Graphic of a circle labeled number 1.
  • Graphic of a circle labeled number 2.
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Step 1: Do I need a smog check?

Most used vehicles need a smog check before they can be sold. If you are selling a used vehicle, you are responsible for getting a smog check ( if required ) before you can sell it.

You DO NOT need to get a smog check to sell a used vehicle IF:

  • You are selling the vehicle to your parent(s), grandparent(s), child(ren), grandchild(ren), sibling(s) or spouse. For details regarding sole proprietorships, as well as lessors & lessees of vehicles, see Section 4000.1 of the California Vehicle Code.
  • For gas-powered vehicels:
    • The vehicle is less than 4 model-years old.
    • The vehicle was manufactured prior to the 1976 model year.
  • For diedel-powered vehicels:
    • The vehicle is over 14,000 lbs GVWR.
    • The vehicle was manufactured prior to the 1998 model year.

Warning: "model year" means the year the vehicle manufacturer assigned to the vehicle, and is the year indicated on the vehicle's registration documents. It may differ from the date the vehicle was manufactured.

If your vehicle DOES NOT meet one of the above exemptions, then click "Go to next step."

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