If you're looking for a smog check, it's essential to know the difference between a smog check station and a star station. A star station is an authorized testing center that can perform all the tests required to certify your vehicle. A smog check station is only able to conduct the basic test, which means they may not be able to approve your vehicle. Make sure you choose the right location for your smog check.

What is a Smog check Station?

A smog check station is a location authorized by the DMV to perform smog tests on vehicles. These stations can only conduct the basic test, which means they may not be able to certify your vehicle. If you're looking for a smog check, choose a star station.

What is Star Station?

Star stations are authorized testing centers that can perform all the tests required to certify your vehicle. There are two types of star smog stations:

Test and Repair: these stations can test and repair your vehicle if it doesn't pass the smog test.
Test Only: these stations can only test your vehicle. You'll need to take it to a Test and Repair station if it doesn't pass.

If you're looking for a smog check, choose a star station.

Five Differences Between a Smog Check Station and a Star Station

The difference between a smog check station and a star station is that star stations are authorized testing centers that can perform all the tests required to certify your vehicle. So, if you need a smog check, visit a star station. There are several key differences between a smog check station and a star station. Here are five differences between a smog check station and a star station:

The main difference between a smog check station and a STAR smog station is the level of oversight and scrutiny to which they are subject. To be certified as a STAR smog station, a facility must meet additional requirements beyond those required for a regular smog check station. These requirements include having up-to-date equipment, being adequately staffed, and following all BAR guidelines. Consequently, you can be confident that your vehicle will receive a thorough inspection at a STAR smog station.

Smog check stations must post their certification information prominently, so you can easily see whether or not a given facility is certified. In contrast, STAR smog stations are not required to post this information.
Only certain types of vehicles are eligible for testing at a STAR smog station; typically, these are new vehicles or those identified as high-emitters. If your car does not fall into one of these categories, you must take it to a regular smog check station for testing.
The state sets the fee for testing at a STAR smog station, while the individual facility determines the cost for testing at a regular smog check station.
Testing at a STAR smog station may take longer than at a regular smog check station, as the process is more comprehensive.

If you need to get your vehicle emissions tested, choose the right type of facility for your needs. If your vehicle is new or is considered a high-emitter, you'll want to go to a STAR station; otherwise, a regular smog check station will suffice. And remember that the results from a STAR station will be more reliable than those from a standard smog check station.