If you drive or manage a heavy-duty truck in California, CARB’s Clean Truck Check is now part of your operating reality. This mandatory program ensures diesel vehicles meet strict emissions standards — and non-compliance can quickly lead to hefty fines or DMV registration holds.
At Easy Clean Truck Check, we help owners and fleet operators navigate these new regulations with ease. Our certified technicians perform accurate CARB OBD tests and guide you through compliance from start to finish.
Understanding the CARB Clean Truck Check Program
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) introduced the Clean Truck Check to curb air pollution by verifying that trucks’ emissions systems work properly.
Unlike older “smoke tests,” the new system uses On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) — a tool that reads your truck’s internal sensors to confirm emissions compliance.
Why it matters:
- Detects issues early before costly breakdowns.
- Prevents unexpected inspection failures.
- Keeps your business fully CARB-compliant.
📖 Source: CARB Heavy-Duty Inspection & Maintenance Program
Which Vehicles Need a Clean Truck Check?
One of the most frequent questions we get is, “Does this rule apply to my truck?” The regulation is very specific. Your vehicle must participate in the Clean Truck Check program if it meets these criteria:
- Weight Class: Has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of over 14,000 pounds.
- Engine Year: Is powered by a 2013 or newer model year engine.
- Fuel Type: Is not powered by gasoline (e.g., diesel, alternative fuels).
- Location: Operates in California, regardless of where the vehicle is registered.
This includes most commercial trucks, buses, agricultural vehicles, and even larger motorhomes.
Compliance Requirements at a Glance
For a quick summary, here’s a breakdown of the requirements:
| Vehicle Category | GVWR Requirement | Engine Model Year | Testing Frequency |
| Commercial Trucks/Buses | Over 14,000 lbs | 2013 or Newer | Twice a year (Biannually) |
| Motorhomes (Diesel) | Over 14,000 lbs | 2013 or Newer | Once a year (Annually) |
| Agricultural Vehicles | Over 14,000 lbs | 2013 or Newer | Once a year (Annually) |
How to Prepare for Your CARB OBD Test
A failed test can be costly and time-consuming. By taking a few simple steps, you can significantly increase your chances of passing on the first try.
- Check the Dashboard: A lit “Check Engine” (MIL) light means automatic failure. Fix issues first.
- Keep Up Maintenance: Follow manufacturer schedules for filters, sensors, and exhaust systems.
- Ensure OBD Access: Keep the diagnostic port clear of debris.
Test with a Certified Partner: At Easy Clean Truck Check, we provide state-certified testing and upload results directly to CARB — saving you time and stress.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Ignoring CARB’s deadlines can be costly:
- 💸 Fines: Thousands per violation.
- 🚫 Registration Holds: DMV blocks renewals until compliance is verified.
- 👮 Roadside Enforcement: Non-compliant trucks risk being pulled from service.
💡 Why Partner with Easy Clean Truck Check?
At Easy Clean Truck Check, compliance is effortless.
We offer:
- Same-day CARB OBD testing with certified technicians.
- Digital result submission to CARB.
- Compliance certificates are issued quickly.
Fleet management support to keep all vehicles up to date.
We’ve helped hundreds of California operators stay compliant — saving time, money, and peace of mind.
🔗 Learn more: Our Services
Stay Ahead of the Curve with Expert Help
The CARB Clean Truck Check is now a permanent and critical part of operating a heavy-duty vehicle in California. For busy owners and fleet managers, we know this feels like one more complex regulation to manage in an already demanding industry. While the rules can seem intimidating, achieving and maintaining compliance is entirely manageable with the right partner by your side. It’s not just about avoiding penalties; it’s about safeguarding your ability to operate smoothly and profitably within the state.
Our expert team is here to be that partner. We provide more than just a test; we offer a complete compliance solution. Our certified technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to perform fast and reliable CARB OBD testing, ensuring accurate results. We provide clear guidance through the entire process, handle the electronic submission of your results directly to CARB, and ensure you receive your CARB compliance certificate without delay. Our goal is simple: to get your vehicles tested, certified, and back on the road with minimal interruption to your operations.
Don’t let compliance worries slow your business down. As of October 2025, enforcement is active, and every delayed load or potential fine directly impacts your bottom line. Investing in a professional testing service is an investment in peace of mind. Protect your business from costly fines and preventable downtime by ensuring your vehicles are fully compliant.
Take the first step towards worry-free compliance today.
Ready to secure your compliance certificate? Schedule Your CARB Compliance Service Now or contact our team to discuss the specific needs of your fleet!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the Clean Truck Check deadline?
All eligible vehicles must comply with their periodic testing schedules starting in 2025. See CARB’s official guidance for updates.
- How are results submitted?
Certified facilities like Clean Truck Check upload results directly to CARB’s system. You don’t need to submit anything manually. - Do out-of-state trucks need to comply?
Yes — any truck operating on California roads must pass the Clean Truck Check, regardless of registration state. - Are any vehicles exempt?
Emergency vehicles and new vehicles (first 4 years) are typically exempt. Gasoline-powered vehicles are not subject to the Clean Truck Check.
AI Overviews / TL;DR
The CARB Clean Truck Check (2025) requires heavy-duty vehicles over 14,000 lbs with 2013+ diesel engines to undergo OBD-based emissions testing twice a year. Non-compliance leads to fines and registration holds. Easy Clean Truck Check offers fast, certified testing and handles reporting directly to CARB — helping California truck owners stay compliant, avoid downtime, and protect profits.
