BAR On-Board Diagnostic Inspection System

Important! The BAR On-Board Diagnostic Inspection System (BAR-OIS) software has been rebranded the California Vehicle Inspection System (Cal-VIS). Cal-VIS will support both Smog Check inspections and, upon implementation of the Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection Program later this year, vehicle safety systems inspections.

The Cal-VIS rebrand will begin with the 23.3 server version update that will roll out to stations beginning January 8, 2024.

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 Vehicle Inspection System software to communicate with BAR's central database through an internet connection.



Important BAR-OIS Updates

  • BAR-OIS software rebrand to Cal-VIS: The BAR On-Board Diagnostic Inspection System (BAR-OIS) software has been rebranded the California Vehicle Inspection System (Cal-VIS). Cal-VIS will support both Smog Check inspections and, upon implementation of the Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection Program later this year, vehicle safety systems inspections.

    The Cal-VIS rebrand will begin with the 23.3 server version update that will roll out to stations beginning January 8, 2024.

  • 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