BAR On-Board Diagnostic Inspection System
The BAR On-Board Diagnostic Inspection System (BAR-OIS) is required to inspect most model year 2000 and newer gasoline vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and alternative-fuel vehicles and most model year 1998 and newer diesel vehicles. Implemented statewide on March 9, 2015, the system consists of a certified Data Acquisition Device (DAD) and off-the-shelf equipment. The BAR-OIS uses the California BAR-OIS software to communicate with BAR's central database through an internet connection.
Important BAR-OIS Updates
BAR-OIS computer operating system update: Effective July 5, 2023, all BAR-OIS computers must run a supported Microsoft Windows operating system version. BAR-OIS computers running an unsupported operating system version on and after July 5, 2023, will not be able to perform Smog Check inspections. Windows versions 7, 8.0, and 8.1 are currently not supported by Microsoft. Windows versions 10 and 11 are supported. View BAR-OIS equipment requirements >
Diesel OBD readiness monitor change: Starting July 5, 2023, all OBD II readiness monitors, except the Non-Methane Hydrocarbon (NMHC) and the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) monitors, must be complete before a 2007 model-year and newer light duty diesel vehicle can pass a Smog Check inspection. The BAR-OIS automatically applies this standard and will exempt vehicles with known OBD test difficulties without requiring input from the Smog Check inspector. Learn more >
BAR-OIS Implementation Milestones
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| BAR-OIS DAD Specification Published | 01/04/13 |
| OBD Regulation Effective | 07/01/13 |
| 2013 DAD Certification Application Collection Period | 08/01/13–08/19/13 |
| BAR-OIS Deployment Begins | 06/16/14 |
| BAR-OIS Use Required Statewide | 03/09/15 |
| OBD Readiness Monitor Standards Implemented | 05/04/15 |