Which types of vehicles are required to undergo a Smog Check?

The requirement for vehicles to undergo a Smog Check is based on the age and type of vehicle rather than a blanket requirement for all vehicles. Most gasoline vehicles that are over six model years old need to undergo this inspection as they are more likely to have emissions that exceed regulatory standards due to age-related wear and tear. Diesel vehicles have a shorter age threshold, requiring Smog Checks for those over four years old, acknowledging their typically higher levels of emissions. Additionally, certain hybrids may also be included in this requirement to ensure that they meet emissions standards, as they operate with both traditional gasoline engines and electric systems.

This approach helps focus inspections on vehicles more likely to contribute significantly to air pollution, ensuring that the program effectively targets the right segments of the vehicle population for emissions monitoring. Consequently, not all vehicles, especially newer or low-emission models like electric vehicles, are subjected to these checks, as they typically do not produce the same emissions concerns that Smog Checks aim to address.