California Smog Check Pricing in 2025: Your Guide to Costs and How to Save

For every driver in California, the smog check is a familiar part of life. As a key component of the state's efforts to maintain clean air, the program is a mandatory and recurring expense. But how much should you expect to pay for a smog check in 2025? The answer is not always a fixed number, as pricing can vary significantly depending on a variety of factors.

This guide will break down the true cost of a smog check in 2025, from average prices and a mandatory state fee to key cost drivers and how you can save money without falling for a scam.

What Determines Smog Check Cost?

The price of a smog check is not regulated by the state; each licensed station sets its own base charge. However, there are a few constant factors that influence your final "out-the-door" price.

Mandatory Certificate Fee: The State of California charges a mandatory $8.25 smog certificate fee that is added to your bill only if your vehicle passes the test. This fee is the same at every station and cannot be marked up.

Station Type: The type of station you visit plays a big role in cost.

Region: Prices in urban areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco tend to be higher due to increased overhead and competition.

Vehicle Class and Age: Older vehicles (1999 and older) often cost more to test because they require a more complex tailpipe test using specialized equipment, which costs more for stations to maintain. Heavier vehicles like trucks, SUVs, and RVs may also have higher rates.

Promotions: Many shops offer coupons or online deals that can significantly reduce the cost.

Average Smog Check Prices in 2025

While prices vary, recent data from the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) provides a clear benchmark for what you can expect to pay for a BAR-97 inspection (for vehicles 1999 and older) in 2025:

Station Type

Average Inspection Cost*

STAR Test-and-Repair ~$74.57

STAR Test-Only ~$63.63

Non-STAR Test-and-Repair ~$70.07

Non-STAR Test-Only ~$56.97

*These costs reflect the inspection fee only and do not include the $8.25 certificate fee.

For vehicles from 2000 and newer, which require a simpler OBD-II test, the prices are often lower, with many shops offering tests for around $45-$60 in urban areas, including the certificate.

STAR vs. Non-STAR: Why It Matters

California's smog program classifies stations based on their performance and capabilities, which directly impacts where you can go for your test.

STAR Stations: These are certified by the BAR to meet a higher standard of accuracy. If your DMV renewal notice says "STAR Station Required," you must go to one of these stations. STAR stations are the only facilities authorized to inspect high-polluter vehicles.

Non-STAR Stations: These stations can serve many vehicles but cannot test those that are flagged by the DMV as high-risk.

Because STAR stations are held to higher standards and must maintain more equipment, their prices can be slightly higher. If your DMV notice does not require a STAR test, you may save money by going to a non-STAR facility.

What Happens If Your Car Fails?

If your vehicle fails the smog check, you are typically only responsible for the base inspection fee (not the certificate fee). You will receive a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) detailing why it failed. The next steps are:

Repair the Vehicle: You must have the emissions issue repaired to bring the vehicle into compliance.

Retest: Once repairs are complete, you must retest the vehicle. Some shops offer a free or discounted retest within a specific timeframe if you return to their facility.

Financial Assistance: If the cost of repairs is too high, you may be eligible for financial assistance from the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP). As of 2025, there are proposals to increase CAP funding to help motorists whose vehicles cost more to fix than they are worth.

How to Save Money and Make Smog Checks Easier

With a little preparation, you can ensure a smooth and affordable smog check.

Look for Coupons and Discounts: Many smog shops and online platforms advertise promotional deals. It's common to find coupons that can save you $10 to $20 off the inspection price.

Call for an "Out-the-Door" Price: Always call the station and ask for the total price, including the certificate fee and any surcharges for your specific vehicle.

Pass the First Time: The best way to save money is to pass on your first try. Make sure your "Check Engine" light is off, and drive your car for at least 15-20 minutes before the test to ensure it's warmed up.

Avoid Illegal Fees: Shops are prohibited from charging extra "electronic transmission fees" (ETF). If a shop tries to charge you for this, they are breaking the law.

Looking Ahead: Changes in 2025

The smog check landscape is continuously evolving. In 2025, the BAR is introducing new diagnostic tools and software to make inspections more data-driven and precise. There are also legislative discussions to expand smog exemptions for older vehicles, which could affect a small subset of vintage car owners.

If you’re a California driver in 2025, expect to pay somewhere between $40 and $70 (plus the $8.25 certificate fee) for a typical smog check. By being a smart, proactive consumer, you can find a trustworthy station, secure the best rate, and avoid surprise fees.