Follow the Simple Steps to Get Your California Emissions Certificate or 5-Day Pass
Enter Your Vehicle Information
Provide your vehicle’s basic details, including make, model, year, VIN, and engine type.
Choose the Type of Application
Select whether you’re applying for a new CA Certificate, renewing an existing one, or requesting a temporary 5-Day Pass
Upload Required Documents
Attach your truck’s registration, emission compliance records, and any other supporting documents needed for your selected application type
Review and Confirm Your Information
Double-check all details to ensure accuracy before submitting
Submit and Receive Confirmation
Submit your completed form and payment. After confirmation by email, our team will handle your CA emissions certificate or permit.
California Clean-Air Compliance Permit for Carriers and Trucking Companies
A single form handles all your California emissions requirements. Apply online for your certificate, yearly renewal, or a 5-Day Pass for temporary entry into California.
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.
Assistance with obtaining a 5-Day Pass to operate legally in California while your truck’s compliance or registration is being processed.
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
- Box Trucks
- Reefer trucks
California-Registered Vehicles
All trucks and buses registered in California must comply with CARB’s Clean Truck Check (HD I/M) program. This includes submitting periodic emission tests, maintaining compliance records, and ensuring that engines meet current California emission standards. Failure to comply may result in registration holds or penalties from the DMV.
Out-of-State Vehicles
Any eligible vehicles registered outside California but operating within the state must also comply. If a carrier only enters California occasionally he can apply for a 5-Day Pass, which allows legal operation in the state for up to five consecutive days per calendar year. This is a convenient option for drivers making short-term deliveries or transits without full annual registration.
Annual Renewal
All vehicles subject to the Clean Truck Check must renew their CARB compliance annually. Vehicles over 14,000 lbs GVWR must provide engine type and model year when renewing. Keeping these records up to date ensures your vehicle meets emission standards and can operate legally in California.
Who Doesn’t Need to Comply with the Clean Truck Check?
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.
- Agricultural Vehicles: Certain farm-use vehicles may qualify for limited exemptions if they meet specific weight and mileage requirements or operate exclusively on farms.
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
Is There a 5-Day Pass for Clean Truck Check?
Yes. CARB allows a temporary 5-Day Pass for trucks entering California without a Clean Truck Check certificate. This permit lets out-of-state or newly purchased vehicles operate legally for up to five days while arranging emissions testing or registration compliance.
What Are the New CARB Laws in California 2025?
Beginning in 2025, more vehicles, including out-of-state trucks operating in California must report test results and maintain compliance. Non-compliant vehicles may face registration holds or fines.
How to Get a Clean Truck Check Certificate in California?
You can get it by completing the emissions compliance process. Truck owners must register their vehicle in the CARB Clean Truck Check portal, perform the required periodic emissions testing (PEA) at an approved facility, and submit the test results online to receive a valid certificate.
Is the California Clean Truck Check Going Away?
No. The California Clean Truck Check program is not going away. It’s a long-term emissions compliance program managed by the California Air Resources Board to ensure heavy-duty trucks meet air quality standards.
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 $32.11 state emissions fee is already built into the total price of $95 per vehicle.
- Emissions testing must be completed by CARB-authorized facilities.