No smog check is required if you are buying or receiving a vehicle which is already registered in California from a spouse, domestic partner, sibling, child, parent, grandparent, or grandchild.
These title transfers are exempt from a smog inspection and do not require a smog certificate when transferring title.
Other family members not listed above and/or with other relation are not exempt and will be required to obtain a smog inspection certificate when transferring title.
What you will need when transferring title between family members (as defined above):
A. The California Certificate of Title (vehicle's title document) properly signed or endorsed on Line 1 by the registered owner(s) shown on the title. You will need to complete the new owner information (you) on the back of the title and sign it. If gifted, write "gift" in the section which asks for the purchase price of the vehicle.
B. A Statement of Facts (REG 256) for use tax and smog exemption, if applicable.
C. Odometer disclosure for vehicles less than 10 years old.
D. A Transfer Fee.
