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What is a STAR Smog Check?
STAR Registration Renewal - SmogTips
You might wonder about the distinction between a regular smog station and a STAR smog station when you receive your DMV renewal notice stating "Smog Certification Required at a STAR Station." No need to worry; this simply means that the DMV has designated your vehicle for inspection at a STAR certified smog station, which is closely monitored by the Bureau of Automotive Repairs and held to rigorous standards.
There are two categories of STAR stations: STAR Test Only stations and STAR Test & Repair stations. Both are authorized to conduct regular and STAR smog checks.
1. **STAR Test Only Centers:** These centers are exclusively authorized to perform smog inspections and are not permitted to carry out smog check repairs.
2. **STAR Test & Repair Stations:** These stations are authorized not only for STAR smog inspections but also for smog check repairs and certification of all vehicles. They participate in the State's Consumer Assistance Program and undergo monthly inspections by the State of California.
In the event the DMV requires a "Smog Certificate Required at a STAR station," you can visit either of these types of smog test centers.
**Duties and Responsibilities of STAR Certified Smog Stations:**
**STAR Test Only Center:** Their primary responsibility is to conduct unbiased and accurate smog inspections. These centers are certified to inspect all DMV-required vehicles.
**STAR Test & Repair (CAP):** These stations, authorized by the Bureau of Automotive Repairs, can perform regular smog inspections, test-only smog checks, and smog check repairs. They are the only type of smog check center equipped to inspect, repair, and certify any vehicle. Additionally, they are part of the State's Consumer Assistance Program and subject to regular state inspections.
STAR Test & Repair stations may also carry out smog repairs on vehicles participating in the Consumer Assistance Program.
**How Are Vehicles Chosen for STAR Smog Check?**
The State of California utilizes three methods to designate vehicles for STAR station inspections:
1. **Gross Polluters:** These are vehicles that previously failed a smog inspection with significantly high emission readings.
2. **High Emitter Profile Vehicles:** These are specific vehicle types identified by the Bureau of Automotive Repair as having a high likelihood of failing the smog inspection.
3. **Random Sampling:** A selection of vehicles registered in California and being driven on public roadways is randomly chosen for STAR smog checks.
If your vehicle is chosen for a STAR smog check, there's no need to be alarmed. Simply locate a convenient STAR certified smog station and proceed with the inspection. The smog technician conducting the test can provide information on any significant issues. There are numerous STAR smog stations throughout California, and you can find one in your area using our STAR Smog Station Locator.
**What Is the Cost of a STAR Smog Check?**
STAR smog stations, like all smog stations, are independently owned and operated businesses. These businesses have the discretion to set their service fees. However, aside from an $8.25 State Certificate fee, STAR Test Only centers and STAR Test & Repair stations typically charge different prices, usually ranging from $29.95 to $59.95, plus state fees.
You can easily find a STAR station by using our smog station and coupon search tool. Simply select "STAR Smog Station" from the dropdown list, enter your ZIP code, and begin your search.