Smog Check Services in San Francisco, CA
Stay road-ready and DMV-compliant with a smog check in San Francisco. Whether you’re renewing your registration, buying or selling a vehicle, or need a STAR-certified inspection, find discounted smog check services near you.
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In California, most gasoline-powered, hybrid, and alternative-fuel vehicles from model year 1976 and newer are required to pass a Smog Check every two years, when changing ownership, or when registering for the first time in the state. Diesel vehicles from model year 1998 and newer under 14,000 pounds also require testing. Motorcycles and electric vehicles are exempt. San Francisco drivers can choose from a range of certified Smog Check stations, including Test-Only and STAR-certified facilities licensed by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR).
STAR stations meet strict performance standards and are authorized to test vehicles that the DMV specifically directs to STAR-certified facilities. Your DMV registration renewal notice will indicate whether your vehicle needs to be tested at one of these locations. Be sure to bring that notice with you when visiting the station to ensure proper certification submission to the DMV.
Smog Check stations across San Francisco test all vehicle types, including cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, and RVs. Many centers offer walk-in service, complete inspections in under 30 minutes, and include the required certificate for DMV registration. If your vehicle is identified as a gross polluter or fails the test, certified retesting is available, and repairs can be completed at qualified facilities.
If your vehicle fails a Smog Check, you’ll receive a Vehicle Inspection Report explaining the failure. You may qualify for financial assistance through California’s Consumer Assistance Program (CAP), which offers up to $500 for emissions-related repairs at participating STAR stations, or up to $1,000 to retire your high-polluting vehicle.
Need help preparing? Keeping up with regular vehicle maintenance, avoiding emission system tampering, and resolving any “Check Engine” light issues can increase your chances of passing. To check if you need a Smog Check or to view your vehicle’s testing history, visit the California BAR website.
Whether you're due for a biennial check or need a quick inspection to complete your registration, San Francisco Smog Check stations are ready to help you stay compliant and reduce emissions on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most gasoline-powered, hybrid, and alternative-fuel vehicles from model year 1976 and newer require a Smog Check. Diesel vehicles from 1998 and newer with a gross vehicle weight rating of 14,000 lbs or less also require testing. Motorcycles and electric vehicles are exempt.
A Smog Check is generally required every other year (biennially) as part of your vehicle registration process. It’s also required when a vehicle changes ownership or is registered in California for the first time.
STAR stations are Smog Check facilities that meet stricter performance standards set by the Bureau of Automotive Repair. If your DMV notice specifies a STAR requirement, you must visit one of these stations to complete your test.
Many stations offer walk-in service with fast turnaround times, though some may allow or recommend appointments during peak hours.
You'll receive a Vehicle Inspection Report showing why the vehicle failed. Repairs must be done at a licensed Smog Check repair station, and then your vehicle can be retested. Once it passes, your certificate will be sent to the DMV electronically.