What documentation is typically checked during a Smog Check?

During a Smog Check, the primary documentation that is typically checked is the vehicle's registration records. This is important because the registration verifies the vehicle’s ownership, confirms that it is legally allowed to be operated on public roads, and ensures that the vehicle meets local emissions standards required for compliance. The registration documents also often include crucial details about the vehicle, such as the make, model, and year, which can help inspectors determine the appropriate emissions standards that apply to the vehicle.

While other documents, such as insurance policies or service histories, provide helpful background information about the vehicle, they are not essential to the Smog Check process. The original sales receipt is not typically needed during the smog inspection, as it relates more to the purchase history of the vehicle rather than its emissions compliance status. Therefore, the registration records are the most relevant and essential documentation checked during a Smog Check.