STAR Test-Only Smog Check
If your California DMV registration renewal notice contains the prompt "Smog Check Required at a STAR Station", your vehicle must be tested at a facility certified by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) to meet STAR performance benchmarks.
Because Main St Smog Star Station is licensed as a Test-Only Center, we do not repair vehicles or sell replacement emissions parts. This guarantees an honest, impartial evaluation where you never have to worry about manufactured repair charges.
- Meets all California DMV STAR program requirements
- Fast 15-minute average testing turnaround
- Instant electronic certificate sent to Sacramento DMV
- Unbiased testing with zero sales pressure
Diesel Smog Inspections (Up to 14,000 lbs GVWR)
Under California law, all 1998 and newer diesel-powered passenger vehicles and light-to-medium duty commercial trucks with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) up to 14,000 lbs require biennial smog inspections.
Our technicians have deep experience inspecting Ford Powerstroke (6.0L, 6.4L, 6.7L), Chevy/GMC Duramax (6.6L), and Dodge/RAM Cummins (5.9L, 6.7L) engines. Our inspection covers visual emission control equipment verification (EGR, DPF, Catalytic Converter, SCR/DEF fluid tank), functional OBD-II testing, and visible smoke snap-throttle opacity tests.
- Ford Powerstroke, Chevrolet Duramax, Dodge Cummins
- Sprinter vans, diesel SUVs, and commercial fleet chassis
- Visual DPF & EGR component verification
- Snap-acceleration smoke opacity verification
DMV Vehicle Registration Renewal Smog Test
Every two years, registered motor vehicles in California (excluding models eight model years old or newer) must undergo a biennial smog check to renew vehicle registration tags.
Simply bring your California DMV renewal notice or current vehicle registration document to our station. Once your vehicle completes the test, our computerized BAR-OIS equipment transmits the electronic certificate straight to the Sacramento DMV database in seconds. You can then immediately pay your registration online or walk into AAA for your license plate sticker!
- Instant computerized transmission to California DMV
- Direct integration with High Desert AAA branches
- Includes official printed Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR)
- No appointment required — walk-ins greeted promptly
Hybrid & Alternative Fuel Emissions Testing
Many drivers are surprised to learn that hybrid gas-electric vehicles (including Toyota Prius, Camry Hybrid, RAV4 Hybrid, Honda Accord Hybrid, and Ford Escape Hybrid) require biennial California smog inspections under Assembly Bill 2289.
Because hybrid internal combustion engines cycle on and off automatically, testing them requires specialized equipment and trained technicians who understand California BAR hybrid protocol to maintain the engine in diagnostic test mode during the computer scan.
- Full BAR-OIS computerized diagnostic scan
- Safe inspection of high-voltage hybrid powertrain electronics
- Verification of catalytic converter and evaporative emissions
- Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs) & conventional hybrids welcomed
Gross Polluter Re-Certification & Clearing
Under California Health and Safety Code Section 44081, a vehicle is classified as a Gross Polluter if its tailpipe emissions of hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), or oxides of nitrogen (NOx) exceed twice the allowable state standard.
Once designated as a Gross Polluter, California law strictly requires that the vehicle be re-inspected and certified exclusively at a state-approved STAR Test-Only station like Main St Smog. We have the calibrated diagnostic equipment to confirm your repairs and clear your Gross Polluter status with the DMV.
- Official STAR Test-Only Gross Polluter certification
- Accurate multi-gas tailpipe and OBD-II verification
- Assistance with California Consumer Assistance Program (CAP)
- Immediate electronic update to DMV records
Out-of-State Vehicles & Change of Ownership
Relocating to Hesperia, Victorville, or anywhere in San Bernardino County? California DMV requires all vehicles brought into the state from other US states or countries to pass an initial California smog inspection before license plates and registration tags can be issued.
Similarly, when selling a car in a private transaction, California Vehicle Code dictates that the seller must provide a valid smog certificate dated within the past 90 days. We provide comprehensive change of ownership testing for buyers and sellers alike.
- Out-of-state initial smog certification
- Verification of 49-state EPA vs. 50-state CARB emission labels
- Change of ownership certification (valid for 90 days)
- Fast inspection so you can finish your DMV registration
Save $15 On Any Smog Inspection
Mention our website or show our coupon on your smartphone when you pull into our Hesperia testing bay!