By Paul Sousa, Director of Regulatory and Environmental Affairs

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted a regulation requiring heavy-duty trucks over 14,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) to be tested to ensure their emission control systems are working properly. This regulation, known as the Clean Truck Check, requires trucks to pass a smog test before they can be registered with the DMV.

Who’s Affected
Trucks owned by farmers and used on the farm—including those delivering agricultural products to the first point of processing—must complete an annual smog test. Non-agricultural trucks are tested more frequently.

This is the first year smog checks are required under this rule, and many truck owners have been caught off guard. To renew your registration, you must follow these steps:

  1. Register your trucks in the Clean Truck Check database at cleantruckcheck.arb.ca.gov.
    Be sure you are on the official CARB website—there are lookalike sites that charge unnecessary fees for the same process. Double-check that all VINs are entered correctly.
  2. Monitor your testing schedule.
    Once your trucks are entered, you can see when tests are due. CARB will also send monthly email updates showing the general status of your account.
  3. Schedule a smog test with an approved tester.
    Only tests from CARB-approved providers count, so confirm your tester is on CARB’s official list.

    • 2013 and newer engines: Tested via the truck’s On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system.
    • 2012 and older engines: Require a tailpipe emissions test.
      Some testers are certified for only one type, so make sure you’re hiring the right one.

Special Equipment (SE) Plates
Trucks operating under special equipment plates—common in agriculture—typically have registration renewals due at the end of this year.

Other Diesel Truck Rules
CARB’s previous Truck and Bus Regulation has already phased out most 2010 and older diesel trucks. Only those operating fewer than 1,000 miles per year under the Low-Use Exemption may register with the DMV.

These rules are complex, but help is available. I’ve worked with many Western United Dairies members to navigate these requirements and keep their fleets compliant.
If you have questions or receive a DMV notice that your registration can’t be renewed due to CARB rules, please contact me at 209-556-2490 or paul@wudairies.com.

 

Sponsored By