Telematics monitoring for cleaner government fleets
Since 2002, the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) has piloted the Continuous Testing Program (CTP) for government agencies operating registration-exempt vehicles with “E” license plates. The program was created to explore how emerging technologies—particularly telematics—can improve emissions monitoring and make Smog Check compliance easier and more efficient for government fleets. The program has resulted in stronger oversight, lower costs, reduced vehicle downtime, and faster repairs to fix emissions-related issues.
Background
Telematics, now widely used in fleet operations nationwide, help government agencies monitor vehicle performance, track maintenance, and enhance safety. Through the CTP pilot, BAR uses telematics to continuously monitor emissions system data from government fleet vehicles. This makes compliance for agencies more efficient while also allowing BAR to evaluate the data in a controlled environment. Government vehicles not enrolled in the pilot must comply with standard biennial Smog Check inspection requirements.
How the program works
Vehicles enrolled in the CTP pilot are equipped with a telematics device—either plugged into the vehicle’s on-board diagnostic (OBD) port or embedded in the vehicle from the manufacturer—that continuously sends OBD data for BAR to evaluate. While telematics can track many aspects of a vehicle’s operation, BAR only collects emissions-related data.
To stay in the program, vehicles must log at least 30 days of “passing” emissions data each calendar year. If the system detects a defect that would cause a Smog Check failure, the vehicle must be repaired within 90 days—much stricter than the standard biennial requirement for most California vehicles.
Benefits of the program
For participating government agencies, the program offers:
Year-round compliance: Continuous monitoring ensures vehicles meet emissions standards at all times.
Faster repairs: Failures are flagged immediately, allowing issues to be fixed before they worsen.
Reduced downtime: Eliminates the need for biennial test station visits.
Operational savings: Improves efficiency and reduces maintenance costs.
Who can participate
CTP is limited to “E” plate government vehicles and is not open to private or commercial fleets. BAR will soon begin the formal rulemaking process to make the program permanent for interested government agencies. Stakeholders will have an opportunity to provide input during the rulemaking process.
BAR encourages interested government agencies to consider participating. To learn more, visit Continuous Testing Program Pilot.