Staying Compliant
- Knowledge ID
- KO-CTC-0003
- Program Area
- Compliance
- Topic Type
- Process Guide
- Reading Time
- 1 min read
- Last Reviewed
- Jul 17, 2026
- Applies To
- Owner Operator, Fleet Manager, Service Provider — On Road Heavy Duty Diesel, Motorhome Rv, Agricultural — Both registration
Quick Answer
Remaining compliant with California's Clean Truck Check program requires more than simply passing an emissions test. Vehicle owners are responsible for maintaining current vehicle information, completing required emissions testing, paying annual compliance fees, and addressing any emissions-related issues when they arise.
Remaining compliant with California’s Clean Truck Check program is an ongoing responsibility.
Compliance doesn’t end after registration or after completing a single emissions test. Vehicle owners are responsible for ensuring their vehicles continue to meet Clean Truck Check requirements throughout the life of the vehicle.
Keep Your Vehicle Information Current
Section titled “Keep Your Vehicle Information Current”Vehicle owners should keep their vehicle registration and compliance information current whenever ownership or vehicle information changes.
Complete Required Emissions Testing
Section titled “Complete Required Emissions Testing”Covered vehicles must complete emissions testing according to the schedule established by CARB.
Depending on vehicle eligibility, this may include:
- Remote monitoring.
- Manual OBD testing.
- Manual OVI (Opacity and Visual Inspection) testing.
Pay the Annual Compliance Fee
Section titled “Pay the Annual Compliance Fee”Most covered vehicles are also subject to an annual Clean Truck Check compliance fee.
Address Problems Promptly
Section titled “Address Problems Promptly”If a vehicle experiences an emissions-related issue or does not successfully complete a required test, repairs and any necessary retesting should be completed as soon as practical.
Common Misunderstanding
Section titled “Common Misunderstanding”A common misunderstanding is that paying the annual compliance fee automatically satisfies the testing requirement — or that completing the emissions test means no additional action is required.
In reality, these are separate requirements, and both must be completed to remain compliant.
Bottom Line
Section titled “Bottom Line”Staying compliant with California’s Clean Truck Check program requires ongoing attention throughout the year. Keeping vehicle information current, completing required emissions testing, paying annual compliance fees, and promptly addressing emissions-related issues will help ensure continued compliance with CARB requirements.