DMV Notice of Incomplete Renewal

Another reason for DMV registration holds is failing to pass the required Clean Truck Check tests. The frequency and type of testing depend on the vehicle's age, type, and the emissions control technology it has.

Vehicles older than 2012 require Opacity “smoke” tests to ensure they are within the allowable limits for pollutants. Vehicles that are 2013 and newer require an OBD test to confirm that the emissions components are functioning properly. 

If a vehicle fails a Clean Truck Check test, the owner must make the necessary repairs to bring the vehicle into compliance. Failure to do so will result in a DMV registration hold.

To remove a DMV registration hold, vehicle owners must take several steps to address the issues that led to the hold. The first step is to understand the specific reason for the hold, which can be found in the notice provided by the DMV or CARB.

Once the reason for the registration hold is identified, the next step is to ensure the vehicle complies with emissions standards. If the vehicle failed a Clean Truck Check test, the owner must perform the necessary repairs to the vehicle’s emissions control systems.

After making these repairs or upgrades, the vehicle must undergo a follow-up Clean Truck Check test to verify compliance.

If the vehicle passes the Clean Truck Check test, the tester will send the results directly to CARB, and the DMV will be able to verify compliance by checking the CTC-VIS database.

In cases where there are outstanding fees or penalties associated with the registration hold, the vehicle owner must resolve these financial obligations. This could include paying fines for previous violations or late fees for missed deadlines. Ensuring all financial requirements are met is a critical step in removing the hold and allowing the vehicle to be legally registered again.

For some vehicles, exemptions from certain requirements may be available. For instance, emergency and military vehicles, and vehicles with permanent historic vehicle plates qualify for exemptions from the HD I/M requirements.

Once all compliance steps have been completed, CARB will confirm that the vehicle meets all necessary requirements. At this point, the DMV registration hold will be lifted, allowing the vehicle to be legally registered and operated on California roads again. It is important for vehicle owners to be proactive in maintaining compliance with CARB regulations to avoid future holds and ensure their vehicles remain in good standing with state requirements.

DMV registration holds are an enforcement tool used by the California DMV and CARB to ensure heavy duty diesel, hybrid and alt-fuel vehicles meet the state's emissions standards. 

These registration holds occur when vehicles fail to comply with reporting requirements, do not pass Clean Truck Check tests, or do not meet other regulatory obligations. To remove a DMV registration hold, vehicle owners must understand the reason for the hold, bring their vehicles into compliance, and resolve any outstanding fees or penalties. Regular maintenance, timely testing, and staying informed about regulatory changes are essential to avoiding registration holds and keeping vehicles compliant with California’s emissions regulations.