Title: What Is the Clean Truck Check? 2025 Guide to CARB Compliance Meta Description: Everything truckers and fleet managers need to know about California’s Clean Truck Check program. Updated for 2025.
The California Clean Truck Check, also known as the Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) Program, is a state-mandated emissions compliance program introduced by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). It’s designed to ensure diesel trucks over 14,000 lbs GVWR are running clean and not contributing to excess pollution.
Launched to protect air quality, this program requires regular emissions testing — and penalties for non-compliance are steep.
This guide explains what it is, who it affects, and how you can stay compliant without interrupting your business.
Who Needs to Comply?
You must comply if you operate:
- Diesel trucks over 14,000 lbs GVWR
- Commercial delivery vehicles
- Buses and large vans
- Out-of-state trucks traveling in California
- Private and fleet-owned trucks used for business
If your truck is on California roads — this applies to you.
Key Requirements of the Program
- Semi-annual emissions tests required (starting 2024)
- Tests must be performed by CARB-certified vendors
- Results submitted electronically to CARB
- Vehicles must pass to maintain registration and operation status
How It’s Different from Traditional Smog Checks
- Tests are ongoing, not one-time
- It applies to heavy-duty diesel vehicles only
- CARB is using remote sensing tech to track high emitters
- Even out-of-state trucks are affected
Avoiding Penalties
Skipping testing or ignoring the Clean Truck Check requirements could result in:
- $1,000+ fines per vehicle
- DMV registration holds
- Vehicle impounds for repeat offenses
APDCarb Makes It Simple
We handle the whole process — from mobile testing at your location to submitting results to CARB. No waiting. No downtime.
📞 Call to Action
Have questions about compliance? Let’s make it easy.
📞 Call us at 619-567-9010 or learn more here