Renew your license
Before you renew
BAR mails a courtesy notice to licensees before their license expiration date.
You must renew your license by the expiration date, even if you do not receive a notice.
Renewal processing cannot be expedited. Renew early to allow for processing and avoid delays.
Business licenses can be renewed up to 90 days before expiration.
Individual licenses can be renewed up to 150 days before expiration.
Allow at least five days for processing. Once processed, you can print your license online. BAR will also mail you a printed license.
If you have a name or address change, update your license at least two weeks before you renew.
If you have an ownership change, you cannot renew the license. Licenses are not transferable, and a new application is required. Learn more.
Active duty U.S. Armed Forces members may qualify for a renewal requirements waiver.
Renewal requirements
| License | Renewal cycle | Fee | Training/certification required for renewal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive repair dealer | Every year | $200 | N/A |
| Smog Check station | Every year | $100 | N/A |
| Vehicle safety systems inspection station |
Every year | $20 | N/A |
| Smog Check inspector | Every 2 years | $20.00 | Inspector Update Training (within the past 2 years) |
| Smog Check repair technician | Every 2 years | $20.00 | Repair Technician Update Training (within the past 2 years) AND one of the following: - Diagnostic and Repair Training (within the past 5 years) - Current ASE A6, A8, and L1 certification |
| Vehicle safety systems technician | Every 2 years | $10.00 | Current ASE A4, A5, and A6 certification |
STAR station certification is based on performance standards and is not renewed.
Late renewals
Important information
If you do not renew by the expiration date:
Business licenses become delinquent.
Individual licenses become inactive.
You cannot operate or work under a delinquent or inactive license.
You must renew your license before resuming business or work.
Late renewal periods and fees may apply and vary by license type.
Automotive repair dealer
Late renewal period: Within three years (36 months) of the expiration date
Total fees:
- Within 1 year of expiration: $250
- Within 2 years of expiration: $450
- Within 3 years of expiration: $650
Important:
- Total fees include the $200 renewal fee for each year the license has been expired and a $50 delinquency fee.
- If you renew within 90 days of your next annual renewal, add $200.
- After three years of expiration, you must apply for a new license.
Smog Check station
Late renewal period: Within one year (12 months) of the expiration date
Total fees: $150
- Total fees include the $100 renewal fee and a $50 delinquency fee.
- If you renew within 90 days of your next annual renewal, add $100.
Important:
- Stations with a delinquent license are locked out from performing inspections.
- A delinquent license may result in STAR certification suspension.
- After one year of expiration, you must apply for a new license.
Vehicle safety systems inspection station
Late renewal period: Within 30 days of the expiration date
Total fees: $30
Total fees include the $20 renewal fee and a $10 delinquency fee.
After 30 days of expiration, you must apply for a new license.
Inspectors and technicians
Smog Check inspector and repair technician
Late renewal period: Within one year (12 months) of the expiration date
After one year of expiration, you must apply for a new license and retake the exam.
Vehicle safety systems technician
Late renewal period: Within 30 days of the expiration date
After 30 days of expiration, you must apply for a new license and retake the exam.
Renew by mail
BAR recommends renewing your license online. This helps avoid mailing delays and reduces processing time.
Renew your license online:
If you choose to renew by mail, include:
A copy of your license
The applicable renewal fees, with your license number on the check or money order payable to the Bureau of Automotive Repair
Mail to:
Bureau of Automotive Repair
P.O. Box 989001
West Sacramento, CA 95798-9001
Send overnight deliveries to:
Department of Consumer Affairs
Cashiering Unit
1625 North Market Boulevard, Suite S100
Sacramento, CA 95834