Arizona does have an emissions test program, similar to that of California, but a smog certificate from Arizona will not be accepted in California for vehicle registration. A smog test in California must be obtained and a passing certificate delivered to the DMV.
A used vehicle from out of state is eligible for California registration after it passes an emissions test. There is a difference with 50-state (California) emissions certified and 49-state (Federal) emission certified vehicles, but no modification to the emissions system of an out of state vehicle is needed if the vehicle is not new. This exemption does not apply to new vehicles.
The rule is any used vehicle which is equipped with either emissions systems, Federal or California is eligible for California registration if the vehicle passes an emissions inspection. No emission systems modification required.
