What is CAP and how do I qualify?
The Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) provides financial assistance to repair or
retire a vehicle that fails a Smog Check.
What happens if my vehicle fails a Smog Check ?
In order to complete your registration, you will need to obtain the repairs necessary for it to pass its Smog Check retest. Before beginning repairs, find out if you are eligible for our Consumer Assistance Program (CAP).
How can I help my vehicle pass a Smog Check ?
Performing proper and regular vehicle maintenance according to your owner’s manual and not tampering with the emissions control equipment are keys to passing Smog Check.
How do I know I need to go to a Test-Only or Gold Shield station ?
You will be notified on the registration renewal notice sent by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if your vehicle must be inspected at a Test Only or Gold Shield station.
What is a Test-Only station?
Test-Only stations are licensed Smog Check stations that are only allowed to test cars. State law prohibits them from making repairs.
Is my vehicle require to get a Smog Check ?
Your vehicle needs a Smog Check if it is more than six model years old and the model year is 1976 or newer.(This does not include diesel vehicle, motorcycles, electric and hybrid vehicles, and two-cylinder engine vehicles.)Your vehicle must be tested every other year. A Smog Check is also required if you sell your vehicle and it is more than four model years old.

Some vehicles may require a Smog Check at a Test-Only or Gold Shield station.
What do I do next ?
If your vehicle passes, you may complete your vehicle registration. Be sure to follow the exact instructions provided by DMV. In some cases, such as paying your fees at a DMV field office, you will have to notify DMV that you received a smog certification before they will process your registration and send you the renewed registration and sticker.
What happens during a smog check ?
While performing a smog check, the certified technician will connect measuring equipment to your vehicle. This equipment is connected to computers at the Bureau of Automotive Repair.Measurements taken during the smog check are recorded and available immediately to BAR. Certifications are immediately transmitted to the DMV. The staff at the Smog Check Station will tell you the results of the test. They will give you a receipt and a copy of the test results, known as a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR).
What should I take?
If you are renewing your registration, you only need to take your vehicle, your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Registration Renewal Notice, and a method of payment for the smog check. If you are transferring a vehicle, or registering it in California for the first time, take the vehicle, a form of payment, and all of your registration documents to the station.
Why Get A Smog Test?
The Smog Check Program has greatly reduced air pollution created by millions of cars in California. According to the California Air Resources Board, the program removes about 400 tons of smog forming pollutants from California’s air every day.