Which vehicles are exempt from a Smog Inspection?

• A. 1998 and newer light-duty diesels
• B. 1975 and older gasoline vehicles
• C. All electric vehicles
• D. 1998 and newer light-duty diesels and 1975 and older gasoline vehicles

Answer: (D)

Smog inspections are not required for every vehicle; the program provides exemptions for specific categories based on year and fuel type. The two groups that are exempt are diesel-powered light-duty vehicles from the 1998 model year and newer, and gasoline-powered vehicles from 1975 model year and older. The exemption for older gasoline cars reflects that very old emission-control systems differ greatly from modern standards, making a standard Smog Check impractical or unnecessary for those vehicles. The exemption for newer light-duty diesels recognizes that these vehicles follow a different regulatory treatment within the program. Because these two categories are specifically carved out of the testing requirements, they do not need to undergo a Smog Check for renewal.