The Overview

If you own a pre-1981 collector car in California, you may soon be able to skip the smog check that comes due every two years. Starting Jan. 1, 2028, qualifying collector cars made before the 1981 model year will no longer need a smog check every two years, if they are at least 35 model years old and meet Bureau of Automotive Repair rules. ​

California's Senate Bill 1392, also known as Jay Leno's Law, was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom on Sept. 16. The change comes as older vehicles have drawn scrutiny over emissions: a Union of Concerned Scientists analysis reported by Smart Cities Dive found that vehicles more than 20 years old made up less than a fifth of California's passenger vehicles yet emitted nearly three times as much smog-forming nitrogen-oxide pollution as newer vehicles combined.

What the Law Does

The law expands the definition of a "collector motor vehicle" and creates a phased smog check exemption under California's existing motor vehicle inspection and maintenance program, administered by the Department of Consumer Affairs. Starting Jan. 1, 2028, qualifying collector vehicles manufactured before the 1981 model year are exempt from obtaining a certificate of compliance or noncompliance at registration, biennial renewal, or change of ownership.

The eligible model-year cutoff advances by one year annually, so by Jan. 1, 2033, the exemption covers vehicles manufactured before the 1986 model year. To qualify, a vehicle must be at least 35 model years old and comply with regulations adopted by the Bureau of Automotive Repair.

Legislative Status

Sen. Dave Cortese, a Democrat, sponsored the bill, joined by 21 cosponsors including Grove, Dahle, Ramos, Mark González and Ellis.

The Senate passed the bill May 19, 30 to six. The full Assembly passed it 55 to four on Aug. 31, and the Senate concurred in Assembly amendments 30 to four the same day.

Cortese told FOX40: "California can protect clean air while also recognizing the historic and cultural value of collector vehicles." SEMA, an automotive trade association, said the law would help preserve California's automotive heritage, according to SEMA.

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