Does a 1981 car need smog in California?

Currently, California emissions laws mandate all 35- to 40-year-old vehicles leave their 35- to 40-year-old smog device technology in place. 1239 endorses the fact that pre-1981 vehicles are overwhelmingly well maintained and infrequently driven (a fraction of the miles a newer car travels each year).

Does a 30 year old car need smog in California?

Under the current law, cars 30 years or older are exempt from smog testing. That means that this year a model 1974 car is exempt and next year a model 1975 will become exempt. What’s more, cars newer than 1976 are already passing their smog tests and the emission rules for these vehicles will be frozen in time.

How old does a car have to be in California to not be smogged?

California law exempts vehicles eight model years and newer from a biennial Smog Check. In lieu of a Smog Check, owners of these vehicles are required to pay an abatement fee as part of their registration fee to the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Does a 1983 car need to be smogged in California?

The state of California currently enforces a law in which any vehicle 1976 and later must adhere to a “vehicle inspection and maintenance check (smog check)” every two years.

What cars are exempt from smog in California?

Your vehicle does not need a smog inspection if your:

  • Gasoline-powered vehicle is a 1975 year model or older (This includes motorcycles and trailers.)
  • Diesel-powered vehicle is a 1997 and older year model OR with a Gross Vehicle Weight of more than 14,000 pounds.

Does a 1978 need smog?

Answer: Yes, currently a 1978 model year vehicle is required to be smog checked, both during initial California registration and every two years thereafter.

How do I make my car smog exempt in California?

How Do I Get Smog Exempt In California?

  1. If you received notification from the DMV that your vehicle needs a smog check but you assume you are excluded, contact the center to obtain a verification of exemption.
  2. Many vehicles are expected to be checked every other year in counties that need smog tests.

Is a 1978 car smog exempt in California?

As of April 1, 2005, exempt from smog check requirements are any motor vehicle manufactured prior to the 1976 model year. All vehicles 1976 and newer vehicles will be tested according to state emission law. This law repeals the 30-year rolling exemption.

How much does it cost to fix a failed smog?

If the vehicle doesn’t pass the emissions test, repairs can cost $100-$3,500 or more, depending on what is needed. For example, a complete tune-up with new spark plugs, wires, fuel filter, air filter and more can cost $200-$800 or more.

How many times can you fail smog?

The California Smog Check program tested more than 11 million vehicles in 2015. More than 10 percent of vehicles failed. Under state law, most California vehicles more than six years old must be tested every two years to ensure they are not emitting too many pollutants.

When is a California Smog Check Required for 1976?

A 1976 model year vehicle was exempt in 2005, a 1977 in 2006, etc. As of April 1, 2005, exempt from smog check requirements are any motor vehicle manufactured prior to the 1976 model year. All vehicles 1976 and newer vehicles will be tested according to state emission law.

What makes a classic car exempt from smog?

By definition, a classic or antique car is any vehicle that is 25 years or more old. Since cars built before 1975 are exempt from the California smog certification program, owners are not required to have their vehicles checked for smog-producing emissions. This include oxides of nitrogen, hydrocarbon emissions and carbon monoxide emissions.

How long do smog certifications last in California?

NOTE: Your smog certification is valid for 90 days upon inspection. You must register your vehicle or renew your registration within this time period (unless you are a new resident; see New California Residents above).

How old does a car have to be to get a smog check?

When you transfer a vehicle title, it doesn’t have to undergo a smog check as long as it’s 8 years old or less*; however, the new owner will have to pay the $8 smog transfer fee. If the vehicle is more than 8 years old, you must provide a current smog certification UNLESS: You’re transferring the vehicle to a: Spouse or domestic partner.