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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
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
2020
Spring 2020
IN THIS ISSUE
COVID-19 Impacts on BAR Programs and Services
Safety and Recall Information to be Added to BAR-OIS
Cal ID and CVN Detect Programming Modifications
New Referee Scheduling Software
Roadside Emissions Data Collection
DocuSign in Gas Audit Inspections
Smog Check Repair-Only Stations
What to Expect During a Station Inspection
New Consumer Assistance Program Webpage Launched
Cars for Schools Program Update
Fall 2020
IN THIS ISSUE
A Message for Our Stakeholders
Consumer Assistance Program Updates
Smog Check Equipment Security Enhancements and Fraud Prevention
Grey Market Vehicle Inspections
ET Blasts Keep Smog Check Inspectors Informed
2020 Smog Check Performance Report
Vehicle Safety Recall Information Added to Smog Check Program
New Auto Shop Locator Puts Vehicle Services on the Map
Legislation and Regulations Update
2019
Spring 2019
Fall 2019
IN THIS ISSUE
Advanced Vehicle Safety Technologies
Permanent Diagnostic Trouble Codes
Smog Check Station Enrollment with OnCore
Government Vehicle Smog Checks
BAR Joins Nationwide Safety Recall Outreach Effort
Mitigation of Illegal Street Racing
Maintain Your ASE Certifications with New Application
Department of Consumer Affairs Open Data Portal