California a smog inspection

In California a smog inspection by STAR stations is required for vehicles that were manufactured in 1976 or later to participate in the biennial (every two years) smog check program in participating counties. The program’s stated aim is to reduce air pollution from vehicles by ensuring that cars with excessive emissions are repaired in accordance with federal and state guidelines. According to the STAR stations engineers, gas-powered vehicles that are six years old or newer are not required to participate; instead, these vehicles pay a smog abatement fee for the first 6 years in place of being required to pass a smog check. The six-year exception does not apply to nonresident (previously registered out-of-state) vehicles being registered in California for the first time, diesel vehicles 1998 model or newer and weighing 14,000 lbs. or less, or specially constructed vehicles 1976 and newer. The program is a joint effort between the California, the California Bureau of Automotive…