STAR station · Test-only
STAR certified — directed or not.
If your DMV notice says a STAR station is required, you’re in the right place — and if it doesn’t, we can still handle your smog check. Test-only, so the result is impartial.
What it means
What “STAR certified” means for you.
STAR stations meet higher performance standards set by the Bureau of Automotive Repair and are the only stations allowed to certify vehicles the DMV specifically directs for a STAR inspection. We’re STAR certified — so whether or not your notice singles out a STAR station, you can be certified here.
Test-only
An impartial result — no upsell.
We’re licensed specifically as a Smog Station – Test Only (BAR license #221872). We inspect and certify but don’t perform repairs, so we have nothing riding on whether your vehicle passes. If it needs work, take it to any repair shop you choose and bring it back to us for the retest and certificate.
STAR & Test-Only FAQ
Questions we hear at the counter.
How do I know if my vehicle needs a STAR check?
Your DMV renewal notice will say something like ‘Smog Certification Required — STAR Station.’ If you see that wording, bring it here; we’re STAR certified.
What’s the difference between STAR and a regular smog check?
The inspection is the same. STAR refers to the station’s certification and oversight — a STAR station can certify DMV-directed vehicles that a non-STAR station cannot.
Why was my car selected for a STAR station?
The DMV directs a share of vehicles to STAR stations for extra oversight each year. It’s not a sign anything is wrong with your car.
Does a STAR check cost more?
No — it’s the same $31.75 coupon price. STAR is about the station’s certification, not a different or pricier test.
Can you inspect vehicles that aren’t STAR-directed?
Yes. Whether or not your notice specifies a STAR station, we can perform your smog check and file the result with the DMV.
What is a test-only station?
One licensed to inspect and certify but not repair — so there’s no upsell. Gross polluters can also be certified here.
Can a test-only station repair my car?
No, and that’s the point — we have nothing riding on the outcome. If your vehicle needs work, take it to any repair shop and bring it back for the retest.
What if my vehicle fails?
We’ll show you the results, you have the repairs done wherever you prefer, then bring it back for the retest and certificate.
Lowest price. No appointment. Open today.
2031 E LAMBERT RD · LA HABRA · ACROSS FROM IN-N-OUT
(562) 267-7782