Smog Check FAQs — Glendale, CA
Frequently asked questions regarding California smog tests, STAR stations, exemptions, and DMV requirements — answered by Brand Smog Check Center.
Smog Check History
Currently, smog inspections are required for all vehicles except diesel-powered vehicles 1997 year model and older or with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVWR) of more than 14,000 lbs, electric, natural gas powered vehicles over 14,000 lbs, motorcycles, trailers, or gasoline-powered vehicles 1975 and older.
Vehicles registered in areas subject to the biennial smog certification program are required to submit evidence of a smog certification every other renewal period. Owners of vehicles six or less model years old will pay an annual smog abatement fee for the first six registration years instead of being required to provide a biennial smog certification. The registration renewal notice mailed to you by the DMV will indicate if a smog certification is required. If a smog certification is required and you have not had a smog inspection, you may still pay your registration fees to avoid any late fees — but you will not receive your new registration or year sticker until the smog information has been received by DMV.
When you transfer a vehicle that is four or less model years old a smog certification is not required (determine the oldest-qualifying year model by subtracting three from the current year). The four or less model years old rule does not apply to diesel vehicles. A smog transfer fee will be collected from the new owner. When a vehicle is more than four model years old, a seller must provide evidence of a current smog certification, except when:
• The transfer occurs between a spouse, domestic partner, sibling, child, parent, grandparent, or grandchild.
• A biennial smog certification was submitted to DMV within 90 days prior to the vehicle transfer date.
Smog certifications are good for 90 days from the date of issuance.
Common questions
Does my vehicle qualify for a smog exemption?
| Vehicle type | Smog check required? |
|---|---|
| Gasoline-powered, 1975 model year or older | No — exempt |
| Diesel-powered, 1997 model year or older | No — exempt |
| Diesel with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating over 14,000 lbs | No — exempt |
| Electric | No — exempt |
| Natural gas powered with a GVWR over 14,000 lbs | No — exempt |
| Motorcycle | No — exempt |
| Everything else registered in California | Yes |
When a car is sold, who is responsible for the inspection?
The inspection is not required on a transfer if a biennial smog certification was submitted to DMV within 90 days prior to the vehicle transfer date.
Note: Smog certifications are not required for transfers of gasoline-powered vehicles that are four or less model years old. The “four or less model years old” rule does not apply to diesel vehicles. A smog transfer fee will be collected from the new owner.
Is there a military exemption from the smog inspection?
No. A smog inspection certification is required regardless of military status. All vehicles that do not qualify under the standard smog exemption categories must be tested — including those owned by active duty military personnel stationed in or returning to California.
A family member gave me a car. Is a smog inspection required?
If you acquire a vehicle that is currently registered in California from a spouse, domestic partner, sibling, child, parent, grandparent, or grandchild, you are entitled to an exemption from the smog inspection. Other family members or relations are not exempt and are required to obtain a smog inspection certification. Always verify your specific situation with the DMV or a licensed smog station before completing the transfer.
What is a STAR station?
The STAR Program replaced the Gold Shield and Test Only programs on January 1, 2013. STAR stations meet higher performance standards set by the Bureau of Automotive Repair, which is why the DMV directs a share of vehicles to them — your registration renewal notice tells you if yours is one. Some STAR stations both test and repair; a Test-Only station like Brand Smog Check Center inspects and certifies but does not carry out repairs, which removes any incentive to find a fault. If your notice does not require a STAR station, you may use any licensed smog station in California.
What if my car fails the inspection?
DMV cannot provide technical information or advice in this area. We recommend contacting the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) Referee Program toll-free at 800-622-7733 for smog check dispute resolution and inspection assistance. Consumers meeting low-income eligibility requirements may also be eligible for repair assistance or vehicle retirement through BAR’s Consumer Assistance Program — call toll-free at 800-952-5210. You can also speak with our technicians at Brand Smog Check Center for general guidance on next steps after a failed test.
Read our full guide to the Consumer Assistance Program →Where is the nearest smog check near the Glendale DMV?
Brand Smog Check Center is conveniently located at 1717 S Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91204, just minutes from the Glendale DMV office. We sit at the corner of S Brand Blvd and San Fernando Road — one of the most accessible smog stations in the area. No appointment needed; simply walk in during business hours and our certified technicians will get you tested quickly. Results are submitted electronically to the DMV within minutes, so your registration renewal is smooth and hassle-free.
See our location, hours and directions →Do you accept cash or cards?
Yes — Brand Smog Check Center accepts both cash and card payments. We keep it simple: $59.75 flat, walk-ins welcome, no appointment required. The state certificate fee is separate and goes to the DMV, not us.
How long does a smog check take?
Most smog checks at Brand Smog Check Center are completed in approximately 8 to 15 minutes — one of the fastest smog test experiences in Glendale. Our certified technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to test your vehicle efficiently and transmit results directly to the DMV. No appointment needed; walk-ins are welcome six days a week, Monday through Saturday. Whether you need a smog check for DMV registration renewal, change of ownership, or out-of-state vehicle transfer, we are here to help.
Do you smog diesel and hybrid vehicles?
Yes. Diesel passenger vehicles of model year 1998 and newer, rated at 14,000 lbs gross vehicle weight or less, require a smog check and we test them. Hybrids are inspected the same way as any other gasoline vehicle. Vehicles rated over 14,000 lbs GVWR, and gasoline vehicles of model year 1975 and older, are exempt under California law. The price is the same $59.75 flat rate whichever applies.
Can you e-file my results with the DMV?
Yes — your results are transmitted electronically to the DMV within minutes of completing the inspection, at no extra charge. There is no paperwork for you to drop off and nothing to mail. If your vehicle passes, the certificate reaches the DMV before you have left the lot.