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Test-Only Smog Check Station: Everything You Need to Know
Received a letter from DMV asking you to have your smog check performed at their Test-Only Smog Check Station? Wondering what this is and where you can find one? Here is everything you need to know about smog checks and Smog Check Stations in California.
What is a Test-Only Smog Check Station?
In California, Test-Only Smog Check Stations are privately-owned and state-licensed areas in which randomly-selected vehicles can be examined for their smog check. Vehicle-owners who are selected are asked to proceed to these test-only stations to have their motor vehicles inspected and certified. Test-Only Smog Check Stations, however, are for testing only and are strictly prohibited to perform any repair service.
Why undergo smog checks in the first place?
A smog check basically inspects the amount of pollutants expelled by the exhaust system of your motor vehicle. It also distinguishes the kind of pollutants your car releases. This is done to aid the global effort for clean air and to help reduce the carbon emissions that cause global warming. A whopping 40% of the carbon emissions on the planet come from motorized vehicles, and it is every car-owner’s duty to try to reduce this. Though different states have different regulations about smog checks, almost all states require it at least annually.
Smog checks are also important if you want to make sure that your car is in good working order. Routine smog checks include the assessment of other automobile parts. Failing a smog check usually means there’s something wrong with your vehicle, thus alerting you of possible damages needing repair.
So, when can you go to a Test-Only Smog Check Station?
Well, you can actually go to the station for your regular smog check even without a DMV notice. Also, in cases of change of ownership or gross pollution, you are also required to go to the Test-Only station to get your certification.
Are all cars in California required to get a smog check?
No. Cars only need to get a smog check in California when they’re being sold or registered for the first time. Cars previously registered in other states will also need a smog check when they are registered in California.
Are there any smog test exemptions?
According to the California Vehicle Code, vehicular sales transactions between immediate family members (grandparents, parents, children, siblings and spouses) need not require smog testing.
How do you prepare for a smog check? Here are some helpful tips: