1. Why are hybrids being brought into the Smog Check Program?
Hybrids are designed to meet strict emission standards and to provide improved fuel economy over conventional vehicles. However, hybrid emission control systems experience the same causes of long-term deterioration affecting other vehicles. Emission control system malfunctions on hybrids can cause emissions to sharply increase. By ensuring that hybrid emission-related problems are identified and then properly repaired, emission levels will remain low over the life of the vehicle.
Since their introduction to the California market in 2000, hybrid vehicles could not be properly tested on the BAR-97 equipment that was introduced in 1997. This equipment could not test the emissions of hybrids as the vehicles would switch into electric mode during an inspection. The new Bureau of Automotive Repair On-Board Diagnostic Inspection System (BAR-OIS), which is based on a visual inspection of emission control components and a scan of the vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system, has resolved this testing issue.
2. When will hybrid inspections begin?
Change-of-ownership inspections and inspections for all out-of-state hybrid vehicles registering in California for the first time will require a Smog Check starting April 16, 2015. The Department of Motor Vehicles will also begin mailing registration renewal notices requiring a Smog Check to hybrid owners in April 2015 for registrations due in July 2015.
3. Which types of hybrids will be required to receive a Smog Check?
All hybrid vehicles will be subject to a Smog Check. Just like traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, hybrid vehicles six model-years and newer are exempt from the biennial Smog Check requirement. Hybrid vehicles four model-years and newer are also exempt from the change-of-ownership Smog Check requirement.
4. What is the Smog Check procedure for a hybrid vehicle?
The Smog Check procedure for a hybrid is similar to the procedure for model-year 2000 and newer gasoline-powered vehicles. This includes both a visual inspection of emission control components and a scan of the vehicle’s OBD system. However, the procedure for hybrids does not include a visible smoke test.
This procedure is consistent with other hybrid inspection practices implemented in other states across the country.
5. Are hybrids required to have a tailpipe emissions test?
No. A tailpipe emissions test is not required for hybrid vehicles.
source: http://www.bar.ca.gov/Industry/Industry_Resources/Q&As_Hybrid_Vehicles_in_the_Smog_Check_Program.html