Frequently Asked Questions

Most of our locations accept walk-ins for cars model year 2000 or newer but some require an appointment. Please take a look at each location's page to find out if your have to make an appointment or not.

Yes, we include the certificate fee in our price. You won't pay any extra at the location if you have already made the purchase online.

Most of our locations are Star certified however there are a few that are not yet! So, when looking for the shop on our locations page, please pay attention if the location is or is not STAR.

Yes, your purchase from us never expires! You can make your purchase and go to our shops when ever is most convenient to you.

When you visit a smog check station near me, here’s what will happen:

Inspection – A certified technician will inspect your vehicle’s emissions system to ensure it is functioning correctly.

Testing – Your vehicle will be tested using specialized equipment to measure emission levels. The test ensures that your car is not exceeding the allowable pollution limits.

Results – If your car passes, you receive a certificate that allows you to renew your registration. If it fails, you may need to make necessary repairs and return for a retest.

Common Issues – Vehicles often fail due to malfunctioning oxygen sensors, catalytic converter problems, or fuel system issues. Addressing these problems before your smog check can save time and money.

Regular Maintenance – Keep your vehicle in good condition with regular oil changes, tune-ups, and replacing air filters as needed. A well-maintained car is more likely to pass a smog test.

Check Engine Light – If your check engine light is on, fix the issue before your smog check appointment. The test automatically fails if this light is illuminated.

Drive Before Testing – Driving for about 20 minutes before the test warms up the engine, helping it run efficiently and reducing emissions.

Use High-Quality Fuel – Using premium fuel occasionally can help clean the engine and reduce emissions, improving your chances of passing a vehicle emissions test.

Ensure Proper Tire Pressure – Low tire pressure can affect emissions readings. Check your tires before heading to a smog check station near me.

If you're selling a vehicle in California, the law generally requires the seller to provide a valid smog certificate. However, there are exceptions:

Electric and hybrid vehicles are exempt.

Cars less than four years old do not need a smog check; instead, the buyer pays a transfer fee.

If you’re selling to a family member, a smog test may not be required.

It was emailed to you after your purchase. You can also call us to give it to you if you are not able to find it in your email.

We will refund your full amount if you haven't used the service or if we couldn't help you at our shops. Please contact customer support or email us at support@smogcheck.net with the email address used at the time of purchase.

If your vehicle model year is newer than year 2000, we will be able to do your smog at all of our locations. Otherwise please contact support for your custom need.

Owners of classic cars (vehicles over 40 years old with original equipment) may qualify for a smog exemption under California law. However, modified older vehicles with aftermarket parts must still comply with emission regulations.

here are several reasons a vehicle might fail a smog check, including:

Check Engine Light On – Even if the car runs fine, an illuminated check engine light will result in an automatic failure.

Excessive Emissions – If your vehicle’s emissions exceed California’s legal limits, it won’t pass the test.

Faulty Oxygen Sensor – A damaged O2 sensor can cause inaccurate fuel readings and lead to higher emissions.

Leaky or Damaged EVAP System – A faulty evaporative emissions system can contribute to excess pollution.

If your car fails, you’ll need to make the necessary repairs and get a retest.

Smog Check Network offers one free retest for most cars.

Smog checks are not required annually in most cases. Typically, vehicles in California must pass a smog test every two years before registration renewal. However, if you’re selling a car, bringing a vehicle from out of state, or have been flagged by the DMV, you may need to get one sooner.

For resell purposes, you can get your vehicle smog check at any location. it doesn't have to be a STAR location. Please visit our locations page to find the location near you.

**We have certified Smog check locations in:

San Jose, Los Gatos, Campbell, Cupertino, Milpitas, Fremont, Hayward, Sunnyvale, Mountain View, Palo Alto, Red Wood City, San Mateo, Burlingame, San Bruno, and Daly City in California.**

We are the largest Smog Service Provider in California, Providing Smog Test only and Smog Test and Repair in Following Cities and zip codes in Santa Clara, San Mateo, and Alameda County in San Francisco Bay Area, California.

Alameda County: Alameda 94501, 94502

Albany 94706, 94707, 94710

Berkeley 94702, 94703, 94704, 94705, 94706, 94707, 94708, 94709, 94720

Castro Valley 94546, 94552

Dublin 94568

Emeryville 94808, 94662

Fremont 94536, 94537, 94538, 94539, 94555

Hayward 94540, 94541, 94542, 94543, 94544, 94545, 94546, 94552, 94557

Kensington 94706, 94707, 94708

Livermore 94550, 94551

Newark 94560

Oakland 94601, 94602, 94603, 94605, 94606, 94607, 94610, 94611, 94612, 94613, 94619, 94621

Piedmont 94602, 94610, 94611, 94618, 94620

Pleasanton 94566, 94568, 94588

San Leandro 94577, 94578

San Lorenzo 94580

Sunol 94586

Union City 94587

San Mateo County: Atherton94027

Belmont94002

Brisbane94005

Burlingame94010, 94011, 94012

Colma94014

Daly City94014, 94015, 94016, 94017

East Palo Alto94303

Foster City94404

Half Moon Bay94019

Hillsborough94010

Menlo Park94025, 94026, 94027, 94028, 94029

Millbrae94030, 94031

Pacifica94044, 94045

Portola Valley94028

Redwood City94061, 94062, 94063, 94064, 94065, 94059

San Bruno94066, 94067, 94096, 94098

San Carlos94070, 94071

San Mateo94401, 94402, 94403, 94404, 94405, 94406, 94407, 94408, 94409

South San Francisco94080, 94083, 94099

Woodside94062

Santa Clara County:

Campbell95008, 95009, 95011

Cupertino95014, 95015

Gilroy95020, 95021

Los Altos94022, 94023, 94024

Los Altos Hills94022, 94024

Los Gatos95030, 95031, 95032

Milpitas95035, 95036

Monte Sereno95030

Morgan Hill95037, 95038

Mountain View94035, 94039, 94040, 94041, 94042, 94043

Palo Alto94301, 94302, 94303, 94304, 94305, 94306, 94309

San Jose

95101 – Downtown (P.O. Box)

95110 – Central San Jose, Diridon Station, Guadalupe River

95111 – South San Jose (Edenvale, Seven Trees)

95112 – Downtown, Japantown, San Jose State University

95113 – Downtown Core

95116 – East San Jose (Little Portugal, Alum Rock)

95117 – West San Jose (Winchester)

95118 – South San Jose (Blossom Valley)

95119 – South San Jose (Santa Teresa)

95120 – Almaden Valley

95121 – Evergreen, Silver Creek

95122 – East San Jose (Story & King)

95123 – South San Jose (Blossom Valley, Santa Teresa)

95124 – Cambrian Park

95125 – Willow Glen

95126 – Midtown San Jose, The Alameda

95127 – East San Jose (Alum Rock, Mt. Pleasant)

95128 – Rose Garden, Santana Row

95129 – West San Jose (Lynbrook)

95130 – West San Jose (Bordering Campbell)

95131 – North San Jose (Berryessa)

95132 – North San Jose (Berryessa, Piedmont Hills)

95133 – East San Jose (Berryessa, Commodore)

95134 – North San Jose (Cisco/Milpitas Border)

95135 – Evergreen

95136 – South San Jose (Communications Hill)

95138 – Coyote Valley, Silver Creek Valley

95139 – Santa Teresa

95148 – East San Jose (Evergreen)

Santa Clara95050, 95051, 95052, 95054, 95055, 95056

Saratoga95070, 95071

Sunnyvale94085, 94086, 94087, 94088, 94089

A smog test is a government-mandated inspection that measures the pollutants emitted by your vehicle. The goal is to ensure cars meet environmental regulations and do not release excessive emissions that contribute to air pollution. Each state has different rules regarding vehicle emissions test requirements, and it is important to check local guidelines to ensure compliance. Regular car emissions test checks help maintain cleaner air quality and prevent harmful pollutants from entering the atmosphere. If you're due for a smog check, be proactive and locate a smog station near me to avoid penalties or registration delays.

Many of stations allow customers to schedule a smog check appointment online, at Smogcheck.net which can save you time and ensure you get tested at your convenience. When booking online, check if the station offers coupons or discounts or if they are one of our partner location with guaranteed pricing, as many are.

If you’re wondering, "Where can I find a smog station near me?" there are several ways to locate a certified testing center:

Use online search engines and type in keywords like " smog test near me " to find the nearest certified testing centers.

Check with your state's DMV website for an official list of smog check locations. Most states provide directories to help you find approved stations.

Ask for recommendations from local auto repair shops that may also offer smog check services or know reliable locations.

Look for customer reviews online to ensure you're selecting a smog check station near me that offers quality service and accurate testing.

Legal Compliance – Many states require a car emissions test before renewing your registration. Failing to complete a smog test on time can result in fines or delays in vehicle registration.

Environmental Protection – A properly functioning emissions system reduces air pollution and contributes to cleaner air for everyone. High levels of pollutants from vehicles can negatively impact public health and the environment, making regular smog checks essential.

Vehicle Performance – Ensuring your car is running efficiently through a vehicle emissions test can improve fuel economy and longevity. A poorly maintained emissions system can lead to increased fuel consumption and expensive repairs over time.

Certain vehicles are eligible for a smog check exemption, including:

Diesel vehicles made before 1998

Gasoline-powered cars built before 1976

Electric vehicles and motorcycles

Hybrid vehicles in some cases

California also offers a low-income assistance program that may provide financial aid for necessary emissions-related repairs.

Some vehicle owners seek California emissions test alternatives, but few options exist. The state has strict emission laws, and cars must pass smog tests unless exempt. However, if your car is failing due to emissions-related issues, some referee stations can help determine if you qualify for alternative testing or repair assistance.

Keeping your vehicle in top condition is essential, especially when it comes to passing a smog check or emissions test. If you're searching for " smog check near me " or " emissions test near me," this guide will help you understand everything you need to know about the process, requirements, and where to find reliable smog check locations. Ensuring your vehicle meets smog test standards is crucial for both legal compliance and environmental sustainability.

A smog check or emissions test is a necessary step in keeping our environment clean and ensuring your vehicle is road-legal. If you’re looking for a smog check near me, use online tools or visit certified smog check locations for a hassle-free experience. Staying proactive with vehicle maintenance will not only help you pass the test but also keep your car running smoothly for years to come. Regular car emissions test compliance ensures that your vehicle is in good working order and helps reduce harmful emissions. Don’t wait until the last minute—schedule your smog test today and keep your car and the environment in top shape.