Smog Check License Requirements Quick Reference Chart
Select option Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4 Option 5 Option 6
Smog License Type Inspector License only Inspector and Repair License Inspector and Repair License Inspector and Repair License Inspector and Repair License Repair License
Experience *1 None Required 2-years 1-year 1-year 1-year 2-years
BAR Required Qualifications None Required None Required ASE Certifications (A6, A8 & L1) AA/AS Automotive Degree Automotive Tech Certificate *2 None
BAR Required Training Level 1 & Level 2 BAR Specified Class & Level 2 Level 2 Level 2 Level 2 BAR Repair Training
Total Cost *3 $1,975.00 $1,975.00 $795.00 $795.00 $795.00 $1,275.00
Application Submit application with $20.00 fee to Bureau of Automotive Repair Licensing
State Exam Pass a Computer Based State Licensing Examination for each license.
*1 Experience requires verifiable employment at an automotive repair business performing engine performance diagnostics and repair.
*2 Automotive Technology Certificate from Community College or Trade School.
*3 Includes textbooks, handouts, study guides, practice exams and unlimited access to STT Egnyte Smog Exam Prep Website for two years.

Smog Licensing Classes Details

Option 1:
Smog Inspector License
Required Classes: Level 1 and Level 2

This training is for applicants with minimal or no automotive repair experience seeking a smog inspector license.

Level 1 Training provides a basic understanding of engine and emission control theory.

Level 2 Training explains the Laws and Regulations related to the Smog Check Program and provides students with hands-on training performing vehicle smog inspections.

Both courses must be completed to apply for smog inspector license. Total training time for both courses is 96 hours (15 weeks). There are no additional training costs.

Tuition: $1,975.00.

Option 2:
Smog Inspector and Repair License
Required Class: ”BAR Repair Training

This training package is designed for applicants that want an Inspector License and a Repair License.

The BAR Specified Class provides training on industry standard diagnostic and repair procedures used in diagnosing and repairing smog inspection failures. A minimum of two years’ automotive repair experience in engine performance is required before applying for the license. Light maintenance tech, lube tech, or tire changer do not meet the required experience. Experience will be verified by BAR upon application for license.

Level 2 Training explains the Laws and Regulations related to the Smog Check Program and provides students with hands-on training performing vehicle smog inspections.

Both courses must be completed before applying for a smog inspector license. Total training time for both courses is 100 hours (16 weeks).

Tuition: $1,975.00.

Options 3, 4 and 5:
Smog Inspector and Repair License
Required Class: Level 2

Applicants that have 1-year automotive repair experience and meet any one of the following criteria qualify for this option.

  • Current Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certifications in A-6, A-8 C L1.
  • AA or AS Automotive Technology Degree received within the last 5 years.
  • Certificate of Automotive Technology with a min. of 720 hours course work that includes a min. of 280 hours in engine performance area.

Level 2 Training explains the Laws and Regulations related to the Smog Check Program and provides students with hands-on training performing vehicle smog inspections. Training time 28 hours (3 weeks). There are no additional training costs.

Tuition: $795.00

Option 6:
Smog Inspector and Repair License
Required Class: BAR Repair

This training is designed for applicants that have a smog inspector license and want to obtain a smog repair technician license but do have the ASE Certifications.

In addition to completing this training, a minimum of two years’ automotive repair experience in the engine performance area is required by BAR. This experience will be verified by BAR at the time of application. There are no additional training costs. Total training time is 72 hours (14 weeks).

Tuition: $1,275.00

Smog Update Class

BAR required biennial training for licensed Smog Check Repair Technicians to renew their license. Classes are 12-hours or 16-hours. The curriculum varies and is selected to keep technicians current with new technologies.

Tuition: $350

Citation Training

Training hours vary depending on the terms of the BAR citation. Classes are scheduled based on demand.

Tuition: $350.00

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites for any of the training courses offered by Smart Tech Training. BAR does have specific education, certification and experience requirements for each Option that must be met at the time the application is submitted.

A garage with a car parked in it.

Labs are held at San Luis Auto Repair