It depends on your situation:
- Registration Renewals – Your vehicle needs a Smog Check if it is more than six model years old, but newer than 1976 (i.e., in 2009, model years 1976 – 2003 must be smogged). This does not include motorcycles, some hybrid models, and two-cylinder engine vehicles.
- Buying/Selling – If you are buying or selling a vehicle, a Smog Check is needed if it is more than four model years old.
- Out of State Vehicles – Out of state vehicles being registered in California requires a Smog Check regardless of model year.