We'll be moving to San Diego from Seattle soon, and I thought I'd better get some schooling on what emissions testing is all about down there.
Can anyone fill me in?
Thanks.

 

Anything built after 1975 (I think) requires bi-annual testing to renew your registration. Check out the CA DMV site for details.

 

http://www.dmv.ca.gov/newtoca/newtoca.htm

Here you go. Should answer your questions. Once you move please check out our chapter for meeting times.

 

I understand that diesels don't get tested for emissions, so I'm off the hook there, but the license fee will likely cost about $350/year. I'm glad the company is buying the first round.

 

Good deal. Hope your move goes well.

 

CA has a rolling 30 -year exemption policy. Once your vehicle turns 30, it no longer has to be smogged.

 

CA does not have that rule of 30 year exemption policy no more.

 

I think it does. That was how it began several years ago, at least. The site says 1975 everywhere in the smog section, which is 30 years ago. It doesn't mention the rolling 30 year limit (my guess is to limit confusion), so I can't validate it unless they revise all of their text next year. Then again, maybe they'll stop at '75 since that's (around) when smog countermeasures were mandated in all production vehicles.

 

the 30 year rule is over. everything from 1976 will require smog. Our new governer passed the new law this year.

 

Your going to need to get your truck weighed at a Public Scale. They will give you a weight certificate which your going to have to give to DMV. You will not be able to register it without that weight cert. ALso your going to have to fill out a statement of facts on the value of your rig. Low ball it. Sometimes they will cross refrence it against Kelly Blue book. I know the San Clemente DMV is pretty easy going, if you want to drive up.