Home
Blogs About Us Contact Us
Clean Truck Check | California's Emissions Program
Truck Maintenance Guide

What Is Clean Truck Check? Understanding California's Emissions Program

The Clean Truck Check is a rule from the California Air Resources Board (CARB). It checks pollution from heavy-duty vehicles that weigh over 14,000 pounds. These trucks must follow rules even if they are not from California. The goal is to lower harmful gases like smog, particulate matter, and NOx that hurt public health. The program uses tests to check if trucks are clean. These tests include OBD checks, smoke tests, and visual or function inspections. Trucks must be tested regularly and meet the rules to stay on the road. For those in the area, the Clean Truck Check in Beaumont, CA ensures compliance with these standards.

Clean Truck Check Program

Why Clean Truck Check Matters for Fleet Operators in 2025 and Beyond

In 2025, all truck fleets and drivers must follow the Clean Truck Check in CA rules. These rules help keep the air clean and protect people's health. If trucks don't follow the rules, they could face fines, lose their registration, or be stopped on the road. This program encourages companies to take better care of their vehicles and move toward adopting zero-emissions trucks in the future. It's not just about legal compliance it also helps fleets operate more efficiently, save on fuel, and reduce pollution. Fleet owners need to plan ahead for testing and necessary updates to their trucks.

Who Needs to Comply with Clean Truck Check Requirements?

Most trucks that weigh over 14,000 pounds must follow these rules, even if they come from other states. This includes diesel, gasoline, and alternative fuel vehicles. Trucks with OBD systems must send in that data. Older trucks without OBD need a smoke test and other checks. All trucks must be registered with CARB using their VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). This helps the state track which trucks are meeting the rules. All types of companies must make sure their fleet vehicles are tested and meet the requirements. Learn more about the Clean Truck Check in Blythe, CA.

Clean Truck Check Exemptions: Which Vehicles Qualify?

Some trucks do not need to follow the Clean Truck Check rules. These include zero-emissions vehicles that use no fuel, like electric trucks. Emergency vehicles like fire trucks and ambulances are also exempt. Military trucks, historical trucks, and vehicles with special experimental permits may also be excluded. Some gasoline vehicles do not need to follow these rules either. Even if a truck is exempt, owners should keep paperwork and check the rules every year, since the rules can change.

Key Compliance Deadlines for the Clean Truck Check Program

Clean Truck Check has different deadlines based on the truck's VIN and registration date. The program started in 2023 and gets stricter in 2025. By 2027, all rules will be fully in place. Trucks must be tested quarterly, every six months, or once a year depending on the truck's type and age. Both California trucks and out-of-state trucks must follow the schedule. Drivers and fleet managers should check the CARB website to make sure they don't miss important dates.

Step-by-Step Guide to Meeting Clean Truck Check Requirements

Truck owners must first check which trucks need to follow the rules based on weight, fuel type, and if they have OBD. Then, they must register each truck with CARB using the VIN. Next, they complete emissions testing using tools like PEAQS, OBD, or a smoke test, and maybe also a visual or functional inspection. The test results must be sent to CARB online. After that, they pay the annual fee. Owners must also keep records of tests, repairs, and maintenance to stay in compliance.

What Are the Penalties for Failing Clean Truck Check Compliance?

If rules are not followed, CARB can fine owners and the DMV can block registration. Trucks that miss testing or don't send in results may get civil fines. Roadside checks can remove non-compliant trucks from the road. If problems like tampering or a recall aren't fixed, penalties are worse. Staying on schedule, paying fees, and keeping records can help avoid all of this.

How Technology Can Simplify Clean Truck Check Reporting and Testing

Verify Telematics and connected devices help owners follow rules more easily. These tools collect and send emissions data and use a T-harness to pull OBD info. They track test dates, show problems early, and warn about tampering or recalls. They also help with testing, like smoke and visual checks, and support driver training. Technology helps fleets stay organized and follow deadlines.

What Is Clean Truck Check Certification and How to Obtain It

A certificate of compliance is given when a truck passes all emissions tests. These tests can include OBD data, smoke meter checks, and visual/functional inspections. If a truck fails, it must be fixed, and the fee must be paid. Then, results are sent to CARB. If all is correct, the certificate is given and needed to keep DMV registration. Owners should keep this certificate and all records.

Implementing this comprehensive truck inspection checklist will significantly improve your fleet's reliability and safety. Consider creating a digital version of this checklist that drivers can complete on tablets or smartphones, which can then be automatically logged and stored for compliance purposes. Regular, thorough inspections not only keep your trucks running smoothly but also demonstrate your commitment to safety - protecting your drivers, your cargo, and everyone sharing the road.