What happens to vehicles that do not pass the smog check?

When a vehicle does not pass the smog check, it is required to have repairs made in order to meet the emissions standards before it can be registered. This process is essential to ensure that vehicles on the road meet environmental regulations aimed at reducing air pollution.

The smog check program is designed to identify vehicles that emit higher levels of pollutants than allowed, and the only way for the vehicle to be compliant is through repair and subsequent re-inspection. Until a vehicle successfully passes the smog check, it cannot be legally registered for use on public roads. This requirement maintains the integrity of the program and supports efforts to improve air quality.

In contrast to other options, such as receiving a temporary permit or being automatically exempt from checks, actual compliance with emissions standards is non-negotiable for registration purposes. Additionally, the notion of a reduced registration fee does not apply in the context of failing a smog check, as registration is contingent upon meeting all required environmental and safety standards.