California Clean Truck Check Program
Overview
California Clean Truck Check is a mandatory inspection and maintenance program designed to ensure heavy-duty vehicles operating in California meet emissions standards. This program helps reduce harmful pollutants from diesel trucks, improving air quality throughout the state and helping California meet its climate goals.
Types of Clean Truck Check Services
1. OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) Testing
Most newer heavy-duty vehicles (model year 2013 and newer) equipped with on-board diagnostic systems must undergo periodic OBD testing:
- Tests engine and emissions control systems through the vehicle’s computerized diagnostic system
- Verifies proper functioning of emissions components
- Quick process that can be completed in approximately 15-30 minutes
- Required every 6 months for most vehicles
2. Opacity Testing
For older vehicles (pre-2013) without OBD systems:
- Measures the density of smoke emitted from the exhaust
- Determines if particulate matter emissions exceed legal limits
- Takes approximately 30-45 minutes to complete
- Required annually for applicable vehicles
3. Visual Inspection
All heavy-duty vehicles must undergo visual inspections:
- Checks for tampering with emissions control systems
- Ensures all emissions components are present and properly connected
- Verifies no visible smoke or leaks
- Conducted alongside other testing methods
4. Roadside Emissions Monitoring
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) conducts random roadside emissions testing:
- Uses remote sensing technology to measure emissions as vehicles drive by
- Identifies high-emitting vehicles for follow-up inspections
- Supplements the regular testing program
- No action required by drivers unless contacted for follow-up
Requirements for Truckers
Who Must Comply
- All heavy-duty diesel vehicles with a GVWR of 14,001+ pounds operating in California
- Includes out-of-state trucks that enter California
- Both fleet-owned and independent operator vehicles
- Exemptions may apply for certain emergency, military, or historic vehicles
Testing Schedule
| Vehicle Type | Testing Frequency | First Compliance Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2013+ with OBD | Every 6 months | January 1, 2024 |
| Pre-2013 without OBD | Annual opacity test | July 1, 2023 |
| All vehicles | Annual visual inspection | Concurrent with other tests |
Compliance Steps
- Register in CARB’s reporting system
- Create an account in the TRUCRS (Truck Regulation Upload, Compliance, and Reporting System)
- Provide vehicle and owner information
- Pay the annual compliance fee
- Schedule testing at approved facilities
- Find an authorized Heavy-Duty Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) testing location
- Testing can be performed at certified truck stops, fleet facilities, or mobile testing units
- Testing appointments can be scheduled online or by phone
- Complete required testing
- Bring your vehicle and registration documents to the testing facility
- Testing technicians will perform appropriate tests based on vehicle type
- Results are electronically submitted to CARB
- Maintain compliance records
- Keep digital or physical copies of test results
- Store records for at least 4 years
- Have documentation available during roadside inspections
- Address any failures promptly
- If your vehicle fails testing, repairs must be completed within 90 days
- Re-testing is required after repairs
- Continued operation of non-compliant vehicles may result in penalties
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Fines ranging from $300-$1,800 per violation
- Potential vehicle impoundment for repeat offenders
- DMV registration holds
- Restricted access to ports and intermodal facilities
Benefits of Compliance
- Reduced air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions
- Improved public health outcomes
- Better fuel efficiency and potential cost savings
- Avoiding costly penalties and operational disruptions
- Contributing to California’s climate goals
Resources
- Find authorized testing locations
- Schedule testing appointments
- Access compliance assistance
- Review testing requirements
- Get answers to frequently asked questions
- Download the mobile compliance app
Note: The California Clean Truck Check program requirements may change. Always check the official CARB website for the most current information.
