How Long Does a Smog Check Take? | Fair Oaks
A California Smog Check usually takes about 30 minutes, although many straightforward newer vehicles can be completed faster when there isn't a wait.
California's Bureau of Automotive Repair recommends allowing about 30 minutes for the inspection. At San Juan Auto Smog in Fair Oaks, customers frequently tell us they were in and out in roughly 15–20 minutes when there wasn't a line.
Key Takeaways
- Allow about 30 minutes for the inspection itself; many customers are in and out in 15–20 minutes when there's no line.
- Most 2000-and-newer vehicles use California's onboard diagnostic inspection; pre-2000 vehicles generally need tailpipe emissions testing, which can take longer.
- Most 2000-and-newer vehicles are walk-in. Book ahead for 1999-and-older vehicles, RVs, vans and heavy trucks.
- Short on time? Leave your vehicle with us and pick it up later.
Table of Contents
Why the Time Depends on What You're Driving
The actual time depends partly on what you're driving.
Most 2000-and-newer vehicles use California's onboard diagnostic inspection system. The inspection also includes required visual and functional checks. Pre-2000 vehicles generally require a different inspection that includes tailpipe emissions testing.
That's one reason an older vehicle can take longer than a newer commuter car.
Does a STAR Smog Check Take Longer?
No. A STAR Smog Check doesn't automatically take longer than a regular California Smog Check, so allow the same 30 minutes or so. STAR describes the station, not a longer test: a STAR-certified station meets additional Bureau of Automotive Repair performance standards and can inspect vehicles that the DMV directs to a STAR station.
If your DMV renewal notice says "Smog Certification Required at a STAR Station," San Juan Auto Smog is STAR-certified.
Do I Need an Appointment?
For most 2000-and-newer vehicles at San Juan Auto Smog, no appointment is necessary. Walk-ins are welcome during business hours.
For 1999-and-older vehicles, RVs, vans and heavy trucks, we recommend booking ahead so we can have the appropriate space and equipment ready.
What If I Don't Have Time to Wait?
You don't have to sit at the shop while we complete the inspection.
If you're in a hurry, you're welcome to leave your vehicle with us and pick it up later.
If you live or work nearby, we may also be able to give you a ride to or from the shop, depending on how busy we are and staff availability. Call ahead or ask us when you arrive.
Learn more about Smog Checks at San Juan Auto Smog →
Bottom line: Plan on roughly 30 minutes for the inspection itself, but don't let a tight schedule stop you from getting it done. Drop the vehicle off and come back for it later if that's easier.
San Juan Auto Smog is located at 4701 San Juan Ave in Fair Oaks and is open seven days a week.
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