In California, the seller is usually responsible for providing a valid smog certificate when a vehicle changes ownership. Exceptions include family transfers and very new vehicles. The certificate must be recent, so time the test close to the sale.
Key takeaways
- Sellers usually provide the certificate.
- Family transfers and new vehicles have exceptions.
- The certificate has a 90-day window.
The seller's responsibility
State rules put the smog certificate burden on the seller at change of ownership. The buyer needs it to register the car. A car that fails smog can still be sold in certain situations, but it complicates the deal and may require disclosure.
Exceptions
Transfers between close family members, vehicles that are very new, electric vehicles and a few other cases do not need a certificate at transfer. Check current rules at the DMV for your situation.
Timing
A smog certificate lasts 90 days. Test shortly before you list the car, so the certificate does not expire during a slow sale.
If the car fails
A failure on a car you plan to sell raises a choice: repair it, sell it as-is with disclosure or accept a lower price. Get an estimate before deciding. Our smog repair page explains diagnosis and estimates.
Help with paperwork
Keep the certificate and a copy of the pass result with the title paperwork. Buyers appreciate a clean file.
Paperwork that makes the sale smoother
Keep the smog certificate, the title and the release of liability form together. Buyers who see a current smog pass on a vehicle are more confident and less likely to haggle over the unknown. If the car passed recently and the certificate is still valid, mention that in your listing. If the 90-day window is about to close, a retest may be worth doing again rather than risking a deal falling through.
Selling a car that will not pass
Some sellers choose to repair first, which usually raises the sale price and widens the buyer pool. Others sell as-is to a buyer who accepts the smog responsibility, which is allowed in certain situations and should be documented clearly. Before you decide, get a diagnosis and an estimate so you know whether the repair costs less than the discount a buyer would ask for.
Need help in south Bakersfield?
Questions about smog check? Read our Smog Check page, call (661) 599-9098 or request a time. Peña's Auto Electric, Smog & Repair, 303 Taft Hwy, Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93307. Mon to Fri 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Sat 8 AM to 1 PM.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays for the smog check when selling?
Usually the seller.
Is a smog check needed for a gift to a relative?
Immediate family transfers generally have an exception. Confirm with the DMV.
How long is the certificate valid?
90 days.
Can I sell a car that failed?
In some situations, with disclosure. Check DMV rules.
Related reading
Sources
- California DMV, Smog certification and registration renewal