Question 1

What is Clean Truck Check?

Accepted Answer

Clean Truck Check is California’s periodic CARB emissions testing program for many heavy-duty diesel vehicles over 14,000 lbs GVWR. Covered trucks need recurring inspections at credentialed locations, separate from CTC-VIS certificate filing after a passing test.

Source: Clean Truck Check overview

Question 2

How do I prepare for a CARB emissions test?

Accepted Answer

Bring registration and VIN details, clear known emissions fault codes when you can, and allow 45–60 minutes on site. Most Clean Truck Check inspections take 20 to 45 minutes once testing starts. Confirm vehicle type when you book a tester.

Question 3

What is CTC-VIS certification filing?

Accepted Answer

CTC-VIS is California’s Clean Truck Check Vehicle Inspection System. After a passing CARB emissions test, fleets may still need reporting and certificate steps in CTC-VIS. CARB Test Finder does not issue the official certificate; we can help with filing so you can download it from the state portal. Source: CTC-VIS portal (https://www.cleantruckcheck.arb.ca.gov/).

Question 4

How much does a CARB emissions test cost?

Accepted Answer

Tester inspection fees vary by shop, location, and vehicle. Covered vehicles also pay CARB’s 2026 $32.13 annual fee. Optional CTC-VIS filing on CARB Test Finder is $76 first vehicle and $69 each extra, with that CARB fee already included. Tester fees stay separate. Source: 2026 compliance fee update (https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/clean-truck-check-compliance-fee-update-effective-112026).

CARB & Clean Truck Check Guides

California Smog Check Exemption

Clean Truck Check guide FAQs