Smog Check Service

STAR Smog Check in Sacramento

A regular or STAR-directed smog check, done at a STAR-certified station in Sacramento, with no appointment needed for most vehicles.

Regular vs. STAR-directed: what's the difference?

Most gasoline vehicles need a regular smog check. But California's Bureau of Automotive Repair sends part of the fleet to STAR stations for testing. According to the state's Smog Check Reference Guide, a vehicle is directed to a STAR station in two ways: a statistical "profile" that flags vehicles more likely to fail, or a random 2% sample of vehicles in enhanced-area counties like Sacramento.

If your renewal notice from the state says your car must go to a STAR station, only a STAR-certified station can issue the certificate. Other stations can repair your car, but they have to send it back to a STAR station for the final test.

What to bring and what to expect

• Your vehicle, the renewal notice from the state if you received one, and your keys. That's it.
• Most standard smog checks take about 20–30 minutes. Directed vehicles can take a little longer.
• Check-engine light on? Get it looked at first, since an active warning light can cause a failed test.
• If your vehicle doesn't pass, we explain what needs attention. We offer a free retest within 30 days for 1996 and newer vehicles.

Where to find us

We're at 1600 Kitchner Rd, Suite C, Sacramento, CA 95822, serving drivers across Sacramento. Open Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM–5:30 PM; Sat: 9:00 AM–3:00 PM; Sun: 9:00 AM–2:00 PM. Walk-ins are welcome. Call (916) 382-9711 for current pricing.