Pricing
Smog inspection: $55–$85 per vehicle, plus the $8.25 California state certificate fee. Walk in any time. $10 off your first visit when you text (760) 800-SMOG.
What you'll pay
Posted prices, network-wide. No hidden fees. The state fee is mandated by California — every legitimate smog station charges it.
| Service | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Smog Check (gas vehicles) | $55-$85 | Most common |
| Hybrid Vehicle Smog (HEV/PHEV) | $55-$85 | Same as gas pricing |
| Diesel Smog (1998+, ≤14k GVWR) | $65-$95 | Visual inspection included |
| STAR Retest (after failed) | Free | At STAR-certified locations only |
| California State Cert Fee | $8.25 | State-mandated, included |
| Out-of-State VIN Verification | $15-30 | For new CA residents |
| Brake & Light Inspection | $50-70 | Required for some commercial |
| Tesla / EV (BEV) Smog | Exempt | DMV verification only — free |
| Motorcycle Smog | Exempt | California doesn't require |
Why our pricing is fair
- Posted prices on every receipt — no "diagnostic fee" surprises
- State fee is state-mandated — same $8.25 everywhere in California
- STAR retests are FREE at our STAR-certified locations within 30 days
- $10 off first inspection — text (760) 800-SMOG for the coupon code
- Fleet discounts — 5+ vehicles, contact us for volume pricing
Common pricing questions
Why does the price vary $55-$85?
Vehicle type, model year, and protocol determine the price. Older vehicles (1976-1995) often require visual + functional inspection (lower end). 1996+ vehicles use the OBD-II protocol. Diesel vehicles require additional visual inspection (slightly higher). Each station posts its specific pricing.
What is the $8.25 state fee?
California requires every smog inspection station to charge an $8.25 certificate transmission fee. This fee goes to the state for electronic DMV transmission. It's not optional and every legitimate station charges it.
Are there any hidden fees?
No. Our network shops post all prices clearly. The only required charges are: the inspection fee + the state cert fee. Optional services (VIN verification, brake/light, etc.) are clearly priced if needed.
Why is the STAR retest free?
State regulation: if your vehicle fails initial smog at a STAR-certified station, you can return for ONE free retest within 30 days at the same station. (Repairs to address the failure are charged separately.)