Who pays for the smog test when the car is bought at a dealership?

Answer 1

California -- It depends on the year model of the vehicle. Recent legislation changed the requirements for vehicle transfers occurring on or after January 1, 2005. When you transfer a vehicle that is four or less model years old a smog certification will not be required. The four or less model years old rule does not apply to diesel powered vehicles. A smog transfer fee will be collected from the new owner. When a vehicle is more than four model years old, evidence of a current smog certification must be provided by a seller except when the following occurs:

• The transfer occurs between a spouse, domestic partner, sibling, child, parent, grandparent, or grandchild.
• A biennial smog certification was submitted to DMV within 90 days prior to the vehicle transfer date (a vehicle inspection report may be required for proof of certification).

So if the vehicle is 4 years old or greater the dealership normally pays because they need a Smog Certificate which is the responsibility of the seller.