CARB Clean Truck Program: Everything You Need to Know
What Is the CARB Clean Truck Check Program?
The Clean Truck Check (CTC) is a California Air Resources Board (CARB) program aimed at reducing emissions from heavy-duty diesel vehicles operating in California. It requires regular emissions testing to ensure that trucks and buses are not contributing to poor air quality.
This program is active and enforceable; non-compliance can result in registration holds and fines. If you own or operate a diesel truck in California, here’s what you need to know.
Who Needs to Comply?
The CTC program applies to diesel trucks and buses with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) over 14,000 pounds. If your vehicle is registered in California or operates here regularly, it must meet the testing requirements under this program.
Starting in 2025, CTC compliance is required to renew your vehicle registration with the DMV.
What Kind of Emissions Testing Is Required?
All eligible vehicles must be tested every six months, depending on the type and model year:
1. Opacity Test
For 2012 and older vehicles without OBD (On-Board Diagnostics). This test measures the density of smoke emitted from your vehicle’s exhaust.
2. OBD Test
For 2013 and newer vehicles equipped with OBD systems. This test checks your truck’s onboard computer system to ensure it’s properly monitoring and controlling emissions.
How to Stay Compliant
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you meet CARB’s Clean Truck Check requirements:
1. Register Your Business and Vehicles
Visit the Clean Truck Check portal to create an account and register your business entity and vehicle(s).
2. Pay the Annual Compliance Fee
A $30-40 fee per vehicle is due annually through the portal. You’ll be reminded when it’s time to pay.
3. Complete Biannual Testing
CARB will notify you via email when a test is due. Schedule your test at an authorized facility. The testing facility will submit your results electronically to CARB.
Hengehold Trucks Offers OBD Testing On-Site
If your vehicle is 2013 or newer, Hengehold Trucks offers Clean Truck Check OBD testing right at our Palo Alto location.
If your vehicle is a 2012 or older, we do not perform opacity testing in-house. However, we can connect you with a trusted local partner who specializes in these inspections. Give our team a call, and we’ll be happy to refer you to a reliable testing resource.
Additional Resources
About Hengehold Trucks
Founded in 1948, Hengehold Trucks is Northern California’s most trusted source for pre-owned commercial vehicles, rentals, service, and professional upfitting. Family-owned and based in Palo Alto, we’ve built our reputation on trust, straightforward pricing, and the best-maintained fleet in the region. For over 75 years, contractors, businesses, and public agencies have relied on us to keep their operations moving—with work-ready trucks, expert service, and support you can count on.