---
title: "Beat the Deadline: Your Guide to the CARB Clean Truck Check"
description: "CARB Clean Truck Check: Your guide to CA diesel truck emissions testing. Learn about deadlines, early testing, and staying compliant. OVI Testing and OBD"
image: https://sacvalleydieseltesting.com/hubfs/Screenshot%202025-01-31%20at%208.18.59%20PM.png
---

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 February 1, 2025

# Beat the Deadline: Your Guide to the CARB Clean Truck Check

 By   Nathan Ament  ·   1 minute read

## ![Screenshot 2025-01-31 at 8.18.59 PM](https://sacvalleydieseltesting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screenshot%202025-01-31%20at%208.18.59%20PM.png?width=1676&height=1108&name=Screenshot%202025-01-31%20at%208.18.59%20PM.png)

January's end means the CARB Clean Truck Check's mandatory emissions testing is in full swing. Don't get caught off guard! If your RV or medium- or heavy-duty diesel truck operates in California, understanding and complying with this program is crucial. This guide breaks down what you need to know to stay ahead of the curve.

**What is the CARB Clean Truck Check?**

The CARB Clean Truck Check (formerly the Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance Program) mandates periodic emissions testing for medium- and heavy-duty diesel trucks in California. This involves an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) test for most vehicles, and smoke opacity testing for some older models.

**Test Early, Breathe Easy: The 90-Day Window**

A common pitfall is waiting until the last minute. Did you know you can get your truck tested up to 90 days *before* your deadline? This buffer is invaluable for several reasons:

- **Time to Fix Issues:** If your truck fails the test, you'll have time to make necessary repairs without facing penalties or downtime.
- **Avoid Delays:** Unexpected issues like weather, shop availability, or scheduling conflicts can arise. Testing early provides a cushion.
- **Weather Woes:** Smoke opacity testing can't be performed in the rain. Don't let a sudden downpour derail your compliance.

**Don't Delay, Schedule Today!**

Is your truck's compliance date approaching? Proactive testing is the key to staying on the road. Scheduling your test in advance minimizes disruptions and ensures you meet the deadline.

As a CARB-certified mobile tester, I bring the testing to you, making the process convenient and efficient.

**Ready to schedule your early compliance check? Contact me today!**

 

[**WWW.SACVALLEYDIESELTESTING.COM**](https://sacvalleydieseltesting.com/)

 

**![Screenshot 2024-09-02 at 9.04.58 AM-1](https://sacvalleydieseltesting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screenshot%202024-09-02%20at%209.04.58%20AM-1.png?width=569&height=292&name=Screenshot%202024-09-02%20at%209.04.58%20AM-1.png)**

 

 

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Learn more about the California Air Resources Board HD/IM Diesel Emissions Program that goes into effect this year by clicking on the links under Resources.

 

 

 

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## **Resources**

[Clean Truck Check Website](https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/CTC)

[Truck Stop Videos - Including Spanish Versions](https://www.youtube.com/@carbtruckstop5804/videos)

[CARB Motorhome FACT SHEET](https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/clean-truck-check-motorhome-fact-sheet)

[The NEW Semi-Annual Testing Requirements](https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/clean-truck-check-requirements-vehicles-subject-semi-annual-compliance)

[CARB info VIDEO](https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/truckstop-resources/truckstop/training-course-clean-truck-check-hd-im-program)

[Testing Twice A Year - Calendar](https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/clean-truck-check-requirements-vehicles-subject-semi-annual-compliance)

[Vehicle Inspection System (CTC-VIS) Portal](https://cleantruckcheck.arb.ca.gov)

[Database Reporting Instructions CTC-VIS](https://youtu.be/Zd1YaEBM-hE?si=KXFPV6TxuKQ6yM21)

[DPF Maintenance](https://youtu.be/NB_dZTnhYTs?si=gC8S-TU8bzEdbekw)

[Information About Selling a Vehicle](https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/dealer-fact-sheet-clean-truck-check)

[Information About Clearning Codes](https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/board-diagnostic-obd-readiness-criteria)

[Acceptable Smoke Levels For Smoke Tests](https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/inline-images/Opacity%20%25s.png)

[Missing Engine Label Information](https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/clean-truck-check-what-do-when-ecl-missingillegible)

[Our Site Data Privacy Policy\*](https://www.freeprivacypolicy.com/live/4839b8f5-5648-436e-9a7c-d6f08e41b09e)

 

![CTC_Testers_hrz-white](https://sacvalleydieseltesting.com/hubfs/CTC_Testers_hrz-white.svg "CTC_Testers_hrz-white")

Information about CARB and HD/IM Program is subject to change, for the most accurate and up-to-date information go to the California Air Resouces Board Website                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

Copyright © 2026, Sac Valley Mobile Diesel Testing

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