If your DMV registration renewal notice mentions "STAR," you might be wondering what that means. Is it more expensive? Is it harder to pass? Can any smog station do it?
Let's break it down.
What is STAR Certification?
STAR stands for "State Test and Repair" (though many just call it "STAR certified"). It's a special designation from California's Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) for smog check stations that meet higher performance standards.
To earn and keep STAR certification, a station must:
- Maintain high accuracy rates on smog tests
- Follow proper testing procedures consistently
- Have technicians with clean records and proper training
- Use properly calibrated, approved equipment
- Submit to ongoing audits and quality checks
In short: STAR stations are held to a higher standard than regular smog shops.
Do You Need a STAR Smog Check?
⚠️ Check Your DMV Notice First
Look at your DMV registration renewal notice. If it says "STAR Station Required" or "Directed Vehicle", you must go to a STAR certified station. A regular smog shop cannot test your vehicle—their machine will reject it.
Who Gets Directed to STAR Stations?
The DMV/BAR directs certain vehicles to STAR stations:
- Older vehicles: Cars 15 years or older are more likely to be directed
- Previous failures: If you failed a smog check before, you may be directed
- Gross polluters: Vehicles identified as high-emitting
- Random selection: Some vehicles are randomly directed for quality assurance
STAR vs Regular Smog: What's the Difference?
| Feature | Regular Smog | STAR Certified |
|---|---|---|
| Can test any vehicle | Only non-directed vehicles | All vehicles including directed |
| Price | $50-70 | $55-90 |
| BAR oversight | Standard | Enhanced monitoring |
| Testing standards | State requirements | State requirements + higher accuracy |
Does STAR Cost More?
Usually, yes—but not by much. STAR certified smog checks typically cost $5-15 more than regular smog checks. The slightly higher price reflects the additional training and quality requirements STAR stations must maintain.
On Lokali, you can filter specifically for STAR certified stations and see exact prices before booking.
Is It Harder to Pass at a STAR Station?
No. The emissions standards are the same everywhere in California. A STAR station uses the same passing criteria as any other smog shop.
The difference is in the accuracy and consistency of testing—not the difficulty. If your car would pass at a regular shop, it'll pass at a STAR station too.
💡 Pro Tip
Even if you're not required to go to a STAR station, choosing one can give you extra confidence that your test is being done correctly. It's like choosing a restaurant with a health grade A—you know they're following best practices.
How to Find a STAR Certified Station
- Use Lokali: Search for smog check, and filter by STAR certification. You'll see prices, reviews, and availability.
- Check the BAR website: The Bureau of Automotive Repair has a station lookup tool at smogcheck.ca.gov
- Look for the sign: STAR stations display their certification—look for the STAR logo in the window
Find STAR Certified Stations Near You
Compare STAR certified smog stations, see prices upfront, and book online.
Book STAR Smog Check →Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go to a STAR station if I'm not directed to?
Yes! Anyone can use a STAR certified station. It's just that directed vehicles must use them.
What if I accidentally go to a non-STAR station when directed?
The station's system will recognize that your vehicle is directed and won't be able to complete the test. You won't be charged, but you'll need to find a STAR station.
How often does my vehicle get directed to STAR?
It can vary. Once directed, you may continue being directed for subsequent smog checks, especially if your vehicle is older or has had issues.