Simple Steps to Navigate California Emissions Compliance
Enter Your Vehicle Information
Provide the details about your vehicle, such as the make, model, year, and engine type, using our simple form.
Complete Secure Payment
Choose from our secure payment options to complete the transaction and finalize your request.
Complete Emissions Testing
Conduct the required test at a CARB-authorized facility.
Receive Your Certificate
Get your compliance certificate with our help confirming your vehicle meets emissions standards.
Our Services
Clean Truck Check reporting through the Clean Truck Check Vehicle Inspection System (CTC-VIS).
Guidance with reporting requirements through the Clean Truck Check system using CTC-VIS.
Fast and secure submission process for emissions compliance.
Confirmation of compliance status delivered directly to your email.
Who Must Apply for Clean Truck Check Compliance?
The Clean Truck Check program requires certain vehicles operating in California to meet emissions compliance. Here’s what you need to know:
Eligible Vehicle Types
Diesel and alternative fuel vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) over 14,000 pounds.
- Commercial trucks and buses
- Transit and school buses
- Motorcoaches
- Motor Homes
- Hybrid heavy-duty vehicles
- Single-vehicle fleets
California-Registered Vehicles
All eligible vehicles registered in California must comply with Clean Truck Check requirements.
Out-of-State Vehicles
Any eligible vehicles registered outside California but operating within the state must also comply.
Agricultural Vehicles
Agricultural vehicles meeting weight requirements are included, although specific exemptions may apply to certain types.
Who Is Exempt?
Not all vehicles are subject to Clean Truck Check compliance. The following are exempt:
- Zero-Emission Vehicles: Battery- electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are not required to register.
- Emergency Vehicles: Fire trucks, ambulances, and other vehicles used solely for emergency services.
- Historical Vehicles: Vehicles over 25 years old used exclusively for non- commercial purposes.
- Military Tactical Vehicles: Designed and used exclusively for military operations.
What Are the Requirements to Obtain the Clean Truck Check Certificate?
To qualify for the Clean Truck Check certificate, vehicles must meet specific requirements related to weight, engine year, testing, and compliance.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
Applies to vehicles with a GVWR over 14,000 pounds, which includes the vehicle’s empty weight and maximum load capacity.
Engine Model Year
Clean Truck Check program applies to all diesel and alternative fuel vehicles over 14,000 lbs GVWR, regardless of engine model year.
Even if your engine is older than 2010, your vehicle must still pass emissions tests to comply with the Clean Truck Check program.
Testing Frequency
Semi-Annual Testing: Most vehicles require emissions testing twice per year.
Annual Testing: Some agricultural vehicles and motorhomes may qualify for annual testing.
Quarterly Testing (Starting October 2027): Vehicles with on-board diagnostics (OBD), typically with 2013+ engines, will transition to quarterly testing for stricter emissions monitoring
Emissions Standards
Vehicles must meet or exceed CARB’s emissions thresholds for pollutants like particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) during testing.
Registration
All vehicles must be registered in the Clean Truck Check Vehicle Inspection System (CTC-VIS).
Registration requires the following details:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Engine model year
- GVWR
Annual Compliance Fee
An annual fee must be paid for each vehicle to participate in the program.
Why Does Engine Year Matter?
The engine model year is critical because it reflects the emissions control technology built into the vehicle:
2010 or newer engines: Equipped with advanced emissions controls that reduce particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).
Older engines (pre-2010): These engines produce significantly higher emissions and typically fail to meet CARB standards without expensive upgrades or replacements.
Starting in 2027, vehicles with OBD systems (2013+ engines) will be subject to quarterly testing, ensuring real-time compliance monitoring.
Testing Requirements with Credentialed Testers
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) requires emissions testing for certain vehicles to meet air quality standards. These requirements ensure vehicles comply with regulations aimed at reducing harmful emissions.
Vehicle Eligibility
Who Needs Testing?
Diesel and alternative fuel vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) over 14,000 pounds must undergo emissions testing as part of CARB's Clean Truck Check program.
Testing Frequency
Semi-Annual Testing
Most heavy-duty vehicles must complete emissions testing twice a year.
Annual Testing
Some vehicles, like specific agricultural vehicles and California-registered motorhomes, may qualify for annual testing.
Quarterly Testing
Starting in October 2027, vehicles equipped with On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) systems will transition to quarterly emissions testing.
Testing Procedures
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) Testing
For vehicles with OBD systems, emissions data is collected directly from the onboard computer. This ensures that emissions controls are functioning correctly.
Opacity Testing
For older vehicles without OBD systems, a smoke opacity test measures the density of exhaust smoke. This test evaluates the level of particulate emissions.
Note: Testing is performed at CARB-authorized facilities. Clean Truck Check assists with reporting requirements but does not conduct the testing itself.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failing to meet testing requirements can result in fines, registration holds, and other enforcement actions. Ensure compliance to avoid disruptions to vehicle operations.
Simple and
Transparent Pricing
The total cost is $95 per vehicle, providing a straightforward and hassle-free process for compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Clean Truck Check Certificate?
Clean Truck Check certificate ensures that your vehicle or engine complies with California’s strict emission standards, allowing you to sell or operate your vehicle in the state.
How long does the certificate process take?
Once you complete the form and payment, you will typically receive your Clean Truck Check certificate within 72 hours, directly to your email.
What information do I need to provide for certificate?
You will need to provide your vehicle’s make, model, year, engine type, and any additional required details related to emissions.
Is my payment secure?
Yes, we use industry-standard encryption and secure payment gateways to ensure your information and transaction are fully protected.
Do I need a Clean Truck Check certificate if I don’t live in California?
If you plan to sell or operate your vehicle in California, you will need Clean Truck Check certificate to comply with their emission standards.
How will I receive my certificate?
Your certificate will be emailed to you as a downloadable document, ready for use or printing.
CONTACT
Have Questions?
Legal and Transparency Disclaimer
- We are not affiliated with or endorsed by California Air Resources Board.
- Our services are limited to third-party reporting assistance through the CTC-VIS system.
- The $30.90 CARB compliance fee is included in the total cost of $95 per vehicle.
- Emissions testing must be completed by CARB-authorized facilities.