Can the Buyer Get The Smog Test Done?

If I paid for my vehicle's registration, but it needs a repair to pass the smog test before I can sell the vehicle, can the buyer get the smog test done without my presence if I give him the registration paperwork? The registration is in my name showing that I paid for the registration but that I still need to get a smog test done.

Answer:

If you've made an agreement with the buyer that he/she will get the smog test done on your behalf before they purchase the vehicle, perhaps this can be done. However note, the law requires the seller of a vehicle hand over to the buyer, at the time of purchase, a passing smog certificate. The sale "legally" can not be performed unless the vehicle's title is accompanied by a valid smog test certificate, title (duplicate allowed is original is missing), and bill of sale.

posted by SmogTips Support