Right Column
Initial Smog Check Station License
- Steps
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Step 2: What Smog Check Program area is my station in?
Areas of the State
All areas of California require Smog Check inspections when a specified model year vehicle changes ownership or is registered for the first time in California. The Smog Check program divides the state into four areas.
- Basic Areas: Require that vehicles within specified model years be tested every two years during their registration renewal from DMV. Vehicles registered in this area must receive a TSI (Two Speed Idle) Smog Check.
- Enhanced Area: Require that vehicles within specified model years be tested every two years during their registration renewal from DMV. Also a portion of the vehicles are required to obtain a certificate of compliance (passing Smog test) from a Test-Only or Gold Shield station. Vehicles registered in this area must receive an ASM (Acceleration Simulation Mode) Smog Check unless the vehicle is not compatible.
- Partially Enhanced Areas: Require that vehicles within specified model years be tested every two years during their registration renewal from DMV. Vehicles registered in this area must receive an ASM (Acceleration Simulation Mode) Smog Check unless the vehicle is not compatible.
- Change of Ownership Areas: Vehicles registered in this area must receive a TSI (Two Speed Idle) Smog Check.
If you don't know your Smog Check Program area, you can find out here by entering your station zip code and pressing the "Find Station Program Area" button.
