California Collector Cars Gained Smog Check Exemption
Owners of older collector vehicles in California will see a phased-in exemption from smog-check requirements beginning in 2028.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Car Culture
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Should California prioritize the preservation of historic vehicles over stricter statewide smog-check requirements?
California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 1392 into law, creating a new smog-check exemption for collector vehicles. This update affects owners of classic cars manufactured between the 1976 and 1985 model years.
Why it matters
The legislation prioritizes the long-term preservation of automotive history over current emissions safeguards for this specific vehicle category. This change formalizes a new regulatory path for classic car hobbyists in the state.
The exemption covers model years 1976 through 1985, with the first group of vehicles qualifying on January 1, 2028. Eligibility will expand by one model year annually until reaching the 1986 model year in 2033.
The players
Gavin Newsom
The Governor of California who signed the legislation authorizing the phased-in smog-check exemption for collector vehicles.
The details
Under the new law, smog-check requirements will be phased out for classic cars on a staggered timeline. Vehicles manufactured before the 1981 model year will lead the transition in 2028, with the program gradually adding subsequent model years each year. Owners must continue to adhere to existing emissions testing requirements until their specific vehicle model year reaches its designated exemption date.
Timeline
September 16, 2026: Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 1392 into law.
January 1, 2028: The smog-check exemption begins for pre-1981 model year vehicles.
2033: The exemption expansion will reach 1986 model year vehicles.
The Home Front
This legislation signals a shift in California's automotive regulatory landscape regarding the preservation of classic vehicles. It distinguishes collector-status automobiles from standard commuter cars regarding long-term maintenance requirements.
If you own a classic car between the 1976 and 1985 model years, review your vehicle's documentation to confirm its production year. Maintain your current smog-check compliance until the specific exemption date for your vehicle's model year arrives.
The takeaway
This law provides a clear timeline for classic car owners to plan their long-term maintenance cycles. Owners should keep their registration documents current and track the annual rollout schedule to see when their specific model year becomes exempt from future testing.
What happens next
California residents with classic vehicles should mark January 1, 2028, on their calendars as the date the first phase of the exemption becomes active for models manufactured before 1981.
Further reading
Learn more about local vehicle regulations and maintenance trends in the Car Culture section.
Live Poll
Should California prioritize the preservation of historic vehicles over stricter statewide smog-check requirements?
