Smog Certification Information

The following smog certification information update is brought to you by SmogCoupons 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 department 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…
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New Smog Check OBD Reference Guide

Since the implementation of On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) inspection procedures, the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) has identified specific vehicles with unique OBD test issues. Specialized testing exceptions must be followed when performing Smog Checks on these “vehicles of interest” to ensure the BAR OBD Inspection System (BAR-OIS) or BAR-97 Emission Inspection System function appropriately. Accordingly, BAR has adjusted the BAR-OIS and BAR-97 software to accommodate these testing issues and has updated the Smog Check OBD Reference Guide, formerly known as Appendix J. The Smog Check OBD Reference Guide provides information and instructions for the inspection of vehicles with known OBD testing difficulties. The guide allows inspectors to search testing information by vehicle make, year, and model to troubleshoot testing issues, including the following: No communication No OBD II Unset monitors False MIL illumination Remember, inspectors must enter the correct vehicle …
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

ARD Registration, Station Licensure, and License Renewals The Bureau of Automotive Repair’s (BAR) Licensing Unit is often asked about licensure and renewal, as well as other general business change requirements. Here are answers to the most commonly asked questions. ARD Registration and Station Licensure How do I apply for an automotive repair dealer registration? To apply for an automotive repair dealer (ARD) registration, submit a completed ARD application and the applicable fee. The application can be downloaded by visiting the BAR website at www.bar.ca.gov or by calling the BAR Licensing Unit at (916) 403-8477 or (855) 735-0462. Businesses wanting to apply for a Smog Check, lamp, and/or brake station license(s) must also apply for an ARD registration. How do I apply for a station license? To apply for initial licensure of a Smog Check, lamp, and/or brake station, an existing ARD or ARD applicant must submit the appropriate station application(s) and fee(s). Applications ca…
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