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2025
Spring 2025
IN THIS ISSUE
Guidance on business or ownership changes
Best practices for improving STAR scores
Join the Cool Air Rebate Program: Boost shop business and help Californians stay cool!
Exploring future solutions for pre-OBD vehicle inspections
Community colleges drive career growth with affordable auto tech training
In the spotlight: Denise Cunningham
Legislation and regulations update
2024
Spring 2024
IN THIS ISSUE
BAR Rolls Out New Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection Program
New Webpage Offers Guidance on Storage Fees
ARD Definition Expanded to Include Auto Repair Referral Businesses
Registration Renewal Requirements for ARDs
STAR Station Equipment Maintenance Requirements
Federal Prosecutors Indict Participants in Smog Check Inspection Scheme
Streamlining Licensure: Online Applications in Development
Building Industry-Bureau Collaboration: An Interview with Johan Gallo
Executive Spotlight – Linda Janssen
Legislation and Regulations Update
Fall 2024
IN THIS ISSUE
Vehicle safety system inspections begin statewide
BAR partners with law enforcement to curb sideshows
Registrations revoked for fraudulent storage practices
Guidance on warranties and disclaimers
Update on citation and remedial training programs
ASCEF funds scholarships through car donations
In the spotlight: Garrett Torgerson
Legislation and regulations update
2023
Spring 2023
IN THIS ISSUE
Mandatory Use of Biometric Palm Scanners Starts May 1
New Diesel Smog Check Requirements Coming Soon
CARB Implements Heavy-Duty Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Program
BAR Expands Disciplinary Measures for Unlicensed Activity
Workshop Held to Address Automotive Repair Transaction Requirements
New Webpage Offers Quick-Reference Information on Accepted Trade Standards
Guidance on Business Structure or Ownership Changes
Executive Spotlight – Deputy Chief Bill Thomas
Legislation and Regulations Update
Fall 2023
IN THIS ISSUE
Citation and Remedial Training Programs
Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection Program Update
BAR Implements Updated Diesel Smog Check Standards
2023 Smog Check Performance Report
Cars for Schools Program Update
UTI Presents Auto Tech Training Program at Educational Advisory Meeting
Clean Cities Coalition Seeks to Expand Auto Tech Training Opportunities
Executive Spotlight - Clay Leek
Legislation and Regulations Update
Take BAR's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Survey
2022
Spring 2022
IN THIS ISSUE
The Bureau of Automotive Repair Celebrates 50 Years
Supply Chain Disruptions Impact Automotive Repairs
The Importance of Documentation: A Repair Authorization Case Study
Taxable and Non-Taxable Labor for Auto Repairs and Service
Vehicle Registration Renewal Notices Go Paperless
Upcoming Smog Check Equipment Security Enhancements
Report Reveals Increasing Demand for Technicians
Educational Advisory Group Meets to Discuss Proposed Education Requirements
AB 471 Implementation Strategy
Fall 2022
IN THIS ISSUE
Biometric Palm Scans to Replace Passwords for BAR-OIS Inspections
Download the 2021 Smog Check Manual
BAR-OIS Computer Updates Required
STAR Program Update Regulations Adopted
Estimating and Invoicing Software
Documenting Collision Teardown Estimates
Storage Fees and Insurer Referrals
Consumer Assistance Program Updates
Recruiting Women Technicians to Meet Workforce Demand
BAR Presents at Mobilize California Summit
Executive Spotlight – Bureau Chief Patrick Dorais
Legislation and Regulations Update
2021
Spring 2021
IN THIS ISSUE
Assistance to Businesses Impacted by COVID-19
Understanding California's Brake Pad Law
Japanese Delegation Meets with BAR to Discuss Smog Check Program
Overview on BAR's Investigation and Discipline Process
Smog Check Security Enhancements in Development
Illegal Software Modifications Detected During Smog Check Inspections
Automated License Plate Reader Added to Roadside Inspection Equipment
Positive Response to Consumer Assistance Program Updates
Cars for Schools Program Update
Scholarship Opportunity for Automotive High School Teachers
Recruitment for BAR Licensure Examination Development Consultants
Fall 2021
IN THIS ISSUE
Catalytic Converter Theft and the Smog Check Program
Gender-based Promotions Can Cause Legal Woes for Your Business
Consumer Notice for ARDs Performing Ignition Interlock Device Services
Repair Authorization and Insurance Companies
Cash in the Can Refrigerant Can Recycling Program
CNCDA Announces 2021 Scholarship Awards
BAR Meets with JASEA to Share Program Information
School and Instructor Requirements Discussed at EAG Meeting
Expedited License Application Review for Refugees, Asylees, and Holders of Special Immigrant Visas