What Is a Change of Ownership Smog Check?
A change of ownership smog check is required by California law whenever a vehicle is sold or transferred to a new owner. The seller is responsible for providing a valid smog certificate to the buyer at the time of sale. This applies to both private party sales and dealership transactions for vehicles four or more model years old.
Who Is Responsible for the Smog Check — Buyer or Seller?
In California, the seller is legally required to provide a valid smog certificate to the buyer. The smog test must be completed within 90 days before the transfer date. However, in practice, the buyer and seller can negotiate who pays for it. If you are buying a vehicle and the seller has not provided a certificate, you will need to get one before the DMV will process the title transfer.
When Is a Change of Ownership Smog Check Not Required?
- Vehicles that are 4 model years old or newer (exempt from change of ownership testing)
- Transfers between spouses, domestic partners, or immediate family members with a completed REG 262 form
- Fully electric vehicles
- Diesel vehicles model year 1997 and older
If you are unsure whether your vehicle needs a change of ownership smog check, call us at (858) 486-7664 and we can verify using your vehicle’s year, make, and model.
How Much Does a Change of Ownership Smog Check Cost?
A change of ownership smog check at Poway Smog Station costs $39.75 with our $10 OFF coupon, plus the $8.25 DMV certificate transfer fee. The test is identical to a standard smog check — there is no additional charge for change of ownership inspections.
What to Bring for a Change of Ownership Smog Check
- The vehicle’s current registration or title
- Vehicle identification number (VIN) — visible on the dashboard and door jamb
- Payment (cash, credit, or debit)
Get Your Change of Ownership Smog Check in Poway
Poway Smog Station is STAR certified (BAR License #47968) and processes change of ownership smog checks daily. No appointment needed. Located at 13965 Poway Rd, Poway, CA 92064. Open Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Saturday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Call (858) 486-7664.