There are some smog stations which offer a Pass or Don't Pay smog check policy, however for the majority, they require payment regardless of whether your vehicle passes or fails the smog test. The reason being, smog stations are privately owned business. Business owners have expenses regardless of smog test results. As such, most all smog stations charge the smog check fee anytime they inspect a vehicle. All smog check fees are required to be posted within the business location and in areas easily visible to the public.
The DMV and BAR (Bureau of Automotive Repairs) are electronically notified when a vehicle passes the smog test. Only the BAR is electronically notified when a vehicle fails the smog inspection.
