Renew an inspector or technician license
Renewal requirements
Inspector and technician licenses must be renewed biennially (every two years). Courtesy renewal notices are sent to licensees 120 days prior to the license expiration date. Licensees are responsible for renewing their license before expiration.
| License | Renewal Cycle | Fee | Training/Certification Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smog Check inspector | Every 2 years | $20.00 | Inspector Update Training |
| Smog Check repair technician | Every 2 years | $20.00 | Repair Technician Update Training Diagnostic and Repair Training* (*Required only if licensee does not have current ASE A6, A8, and L1 certification.) |
| Vehicle safety systems technician | Every 2 years | $10.00 | Current ASE A4, A5, and A6 certification |
Military renewal waiver
Renewal requirements, including renewal fees, continuing education requirements, and any other requirements as determined by BAR, may be waived for members of the United States Armed Forces when they are called to active duty. For additional information, visit Resources for Members of the United States Armed Forces and Their Families.
FAQs
Can I renew my license online?
Online license renewal is available for inspector and technician licenses that will expire within the next 150 days or have not been expired for more than one year. Review eligibility requirements and begin the online renewal process.
Can I expedite my renewal?
No. Renewals are processed in the order they are received. The processing time is typically four to six weeks from the time of receipt. After your renewal is processed, you can print a copy of the license online.
I need to report a change of address or other information. What do I need to do?
Visit Update an inspector or technician license for information. Changes must be reported and processed by BAR before you may submit an online license renewal payment. Please allow two weeks for processing. Use the License Search webpage to verify that the change has been made before attempting to submit an online license renewal payment.
I did not receive a renewal notice. What do I need to do?
If you do not receive a courtesy renewal notice in the mail, you are still responsible for renewing your license by the expiration date.
Renew your license online. Or, to renew your license by mail, you may submit a copy of your license with the applicable renewal fees. Include your license number on the check or money order made payable to:
Bureau of Automotive Repair
P.O. Box 989001
West Sacramento, CA 95798-9001
Can I overnight my renewal payment?
Yes. Payments may be sent overnight to:
Can I print a copy of my license after it is renewed?
Yes, after the renewal is processed, you can print your license online.
What happens if I do not renew my license by the expiration date?
If you do not renew your license before it expires, it will be considered inactive. You cannot perform activities that require a license until it is renewed.
Smog Check inspector and repair technician licenses: If your license is not renewed within one year of the expiration date, you must submit a new application and fee. You must meet all qualifications for licensure and retake the examination.
Vehicle safety systems technician license: If your license is not renewed within 30 days of the expiration date, you must submit a new application and fee. You must also meet all qualifications for licensure and retake the examination.