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**Oversight of California's Smog Check Program**
The Bureau of Automotive Repairs (BAR) is responsible for the administration of California's smog check program, overseeing the electronic reporting of vehicle smog check results to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). In California, a smog check is mandatory for several purposes:
1. **Initial Vehicle Registration**: A smog check is required as part of the initial registration process for a vehicle in California.
2. **Biennial Registration Renewal**: For California DMV registration renewal, a smog check is mandatory every two years.
3. **Title Transfer**: When transferring a vehicle's title from one owner to another, a smog check is also necessary.
**California Vehicle Registration Requirements**
To legally register and operate a car, truck, van, SUV, motorhome, or motorcycle on California public roadways, the DMV has established certain requirements:
1. **Exemptions for Newer Vehicles**: Currently, smog inspections are mandatory for most vehicles. However, there are exemptions, including:
- Diesel-powered vehicles from 1997 or earlier or with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVWR) exceeding 14,000 lbs.
- Electric and natural gas-powered vehicles over 14,000 lbs.
- Motorcycles, trailers, and gasoline-powered vehicles from 1975 or older.
2. **Exemption for Vehicle Transfer**: For vehicle transfers (buying or selling), gasoline-powered motor vehicles that are four model years old or newer are exempt from smog checks. Note that this exemption excludes diesel-powered vehicles.
3. **Diesel Smog Check**: Diesel-powered vehicles from 1998 or newer with a GVWR of less than 14,500 lbs require a diesel smog check. Unlike regular inspections, the diesel smog test does not include the emissions test portion, tailpipe emissions test, or dynamometer testing.
4. **Different Smog Check Types**: Understanding which type of smog check your vehicle requires can be important. You can choose from different types of smog stations, such as STAR certified smog stations, smog test-only centers, or regular smog stations. If you're unsure which type is needed for your vehicle, you can learn more about these options.
These regulations ensure that vehicles on California roads meet emissions standards and contribute to cleaner air in the state. Smog checks are essential to verify that vehicles comply with these requirements.