Understanding California’s Clean Truck Check Program Testing Dates for Out-of-State Vehicles and DMV Exempt Plated Vehicles

For truck owners and operators bringing out-of-state heavy-duty vehicles into California, as well as DMV Exempt Plated Vehicles, the Clean Truck Check program requires emissions testing based on a specific schedule tied to the last digit of the vehicle’s VIN. This schedule is key to avoiding late fees and compliance issues, so let’s break it down.

How Testing and Compliance Deadlines Are Scheduled

The Clean Truck Check program assigns compliance deadlines and testing dates based on the last digit of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The deadlines vary between the initial compliance year (2024) and subsequent years (2025 and beyond). Here’s how it works:

2025 and Beyond: Semi-Annual Testing and Annual Fee Deadlines

Starting in 2025, semi-annual testing and annual fee deadlines are based on the VIN's last digit as well. Each vehicle will have a fee due once a year and tests twice a year according to the following schedule:

• VIN Ending in 0 - April & October

• VIN Ending in 1 - May & November

• VIN Ending in 2 - June & December

• VIN Ending in 3 - January & July

• VIN Ending in 4 - February & August

• VIN Ending in 5 - March & September

• VIN Ending in 6 - April & October

• VIN Ending in 7 - May & November

• VIN Ending in 8 - June & December

• VIN Ending in 9 - January & July

  
  

Important Considerations for Out-of-State Vehicles

1. Understand Your VIN-Based Deadlines This VIN-specific schedule replaces standard registration-based or out-of-state compliance dates. So be sure to check your VIN’s last digit and mark the specific months when your vehicle is due for testing or fee payment.

2. Avoid Late Fees by Meeting the Compliance Schedule Missing these deadlines can lead to fines or even prevent your vehicle from operating in California. Planning for these deadlines, especially in busy seasons, can help you stay compliant.

3. Annual vs. Semi-Annual Testing While the initial compliance fee is due once per year, starting in 2025, semi-annual emissions testing becomes mandatory. It is important to follow this twice-yearly schedule precisely as it doesn’t align with other states' testing requirements.

4. Adjust Operations Based on Testing Months For trucks with VINs scheduled for testing during peak months, consider scheduling your tests early or preparing for testing while your vehicle is already in California to avoid interrupting operations.

   
   

By staying proactive with California’s Clean Truck Check schedule, out-of-state vehicle owners can avoid compliance issues and fines. While the VIN-based system is unique, understanding it makes for a smoother experience as you navigate the requirements of California’s heavy-duty vehicle regulations.