Clean Truck Check

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) Clean Truck Check (CTC) program is part of California’s comprehensive strategy to address air pollution and public health concerns associated with greenhouse gas emissions from the operation of Medium and Heavy Duty vehicles. By enforcing strict emission standards and regular inspections, the program aims to reduce the environmental impact of heavy-duty trucks and improve air quality for residents of California. The program combines periodic vehicle testing requirements with other emissions monitoring techniques and expanded enforcement strategies to identify vehicles in need of emissions related repairs and ensure any needed repairs are performed.

Applicability: Vehicles over 14,000 GVWR, non-gasoline powered, operating on CA roads.

Cost: $30 per vehicle annually.

Regular Inspections: Inspections may include checks of the vehicle’s emission control systems, exhaust systems, and overall maintenance records.

Testing: Trucks may undergo emissions testing to measure pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). Compliance testing must be performed by a CARB credentialed tester.

Maintenance: Truck owners and operators must maintain their vehicles to ensure they meet CARB’s emissions standards.

Compliance Deadlines: Deadlines vary depending on where the vehicle is registered. If any subject truck is equipped with CA issued plates, the compliance deadlines are defined by registration expiration. For trucks registered in a jurisdiction outside of CA (e.g., IRP/apportioned plating), the compliance deadlines vary depending on the last number of any subject VIN.

Penalties for Non-Compliance: Trucks that fail to meet the required emissions standards or do not pass inspections may face fines, penalties, or restrictions on their operations within California. If a non-compliant truck is registered in CA, the registration will not be renewed until CTC compliance is achieved (e.g., ensuring qualifying vehicles are added to your CTC account, payment of $30 annual fee, proof of passing test, etc.).

Reporting: Fleet owners/operators are required to report the compliance status of their trucks to CARB.