|
Smog Checks Required by the CA DMV
The California DMV requires vehicles undergo one of two different smog check inspections based on both a random cycle and specific vehicle smog check status. Smog stations are divided into three main groups which are the: smog test only center, regular smog & repair stations, and Gold Shield smog repair station or centers.
1. Test Only or Gold Shield Smog Check
Have your DMV paperwork handy. Locate the section requesting a smog check. It should ask for a Test Only or Gold Shield station certification. This type of smog test can only be obtained at a state certified Test Only smog center or a Gold Shield smog test and repair station.
2. Regular Smog Check - Refer to your DMV paperwork. Locate the smog check requirement section. It will ask for a smog check and make no mention of Test Only. A regular smog check can be obtained at any type of smog station, smog test only center or certified smog repair station.
3. Smog Check Repair Stations - If your vehicle has failed the smog check, the Bureau of Automotive Repairs requires that only licensed California smog check repair stations or CAP Gold Shield repair centers perform diagnosis and/or repairs.
Please Note: Smog TEST ONLY centers are authorized to perform test only inspections are not allowed to perform smog check repairs. State research has shown these smog stations to provide a more accurate inspection then their counterparts, due to the fact that test only centers are not allowed to perform or profit from any automotive or smog repair.
If your vehicle fails at a test only smog check center or any one of our test only smog stations, you will need to seek repairs at a regular smog check repair center or Gold Shield station. Gold shield stations are allowed to perform Test Only inspections as well as smog check repairs.
| 
