New CARB Regulation Requires Clean Truck Checks Twice Per Year In California – Maintenance Monthly

Note: The information provided is subject to change. Please visit the CARB website to verify the most recent requirements.

If you operate a truck in California or plan to enter the state, there is a new rule you need to be aware of. According to the California Air Resources Board (CARB), all heavy-duty trucks that enter California must now undergo Clean Truck Check inspections twice a year to continue operating legally within the state. In this Maintenance Monthly, we are going to cover what the Clean Truck Check program is, the key requirements, and what truck owners can do to ensure compliance.

What is the Clean Truck Check Program?

The Clean Truck Check program, formerly known as the Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) Program, is part of California’s effort to cut down on air pollution from diesel trucks. CARB has been rolling out stricter emissions regulations for years, and this latest requirement is aimed at ensuring trucks meet emission standards on an ongoing basis.

Under the new mandate, heavy-duty vehicles—both in-state and out-of-state—that operate in California must complete emissions testing every six months. According to the California Air Resources Board, this applies to heavy-duty diesel vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 14,000 pounds

Key Requirements for Truck Owners and Operators

• Twice-Yearly Inspections: All affected trucks must undergo and pass a Clean Truck Check inspection every six months.

• Testing Applies to All Heavy-Duty Vehicles: This rule applies to both California-based and out-of-state trucks operating within California’s borders.
• Emission Standards Compliance: Trucks must meet CARB’s emissions standards to pass the inspections. Vehicles failing the test will need repairs and retesting to be compliant.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with the new regulations can result in fines and penalties, potentially leading to restrictions on operating within California.

What Truck Owners Should Do

To stay compliant, truck operators should:

• Schedule Regular Inspections: Ensure their fleet is tested every six months per the new requirement.
• Keep Maintenance Up to Date: Regularly service vehicles to prevent unexpected failures during emissions tests.
• Monitor CARB Updates: CARB regulations frequently evolve, so staying informed will help avoid compliance issues. Visit ww2.arb.ca.gov/ to stay up to date with the most current regulations.

The new biannual inspection requirement under CARB’s Clean Truck Check program is a significant change for truck operators. Staying ahead of these inspections and keeping vehicles in top condition will help ensure compliance and prevent costly penalties. If your business operates in California, now is the time to prepare. Schedule your inspections and keep your fleet running clean and legal!

Looking for more information? Visit your local Kenworth of Pennsylvania store to learn more.

Need to get your Clean Truck Inspection scheduled? Kenworth of Pennsylvania is certified to inspect model year 2013 and newer truck units equipped with On-Board Diagnostics (OBD). Stay ahead and be sure to schedule your Clean Truck Check inspection at any one of our nine full-service locations throughout Pennsylvania.