CARB OBD Testing: What you need to do now

CARB OBD Testing: What You Need to Know Before October

If you’re a fleet manager or owner-operator in California, you’ve likely heard about the upcoming CARB On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) testing requirements. While these new regulations are crucial for maintaining emissions compliance, it’s important to note that mandatory OBD testing won’t begin until October—unless you’ve received a Notice to Submit for Testing (NST) letter or a citation from CARB.

What You Need to Do Now

Although the OBD testing requirements won’t take effect immediately for most fleets, there are essential steps you need to take now to ensure you’re prepared and compliant when the time comes. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Create an Account in the CTC-VIS Database

The first and most critical step is creating an account in the California Trucking Compliance Vehicle Information System (CTC-VIS) database. This system is used by CARB to manage compliance records for all heavy-duty vehicles operating in the state.

2. Upload Your Vehicles

Once your account is set up, you’ll need to upload detailed information about each vehicle in your fleet. This includes specifics like the vehicle’s make, model, year, and emissions control systems. Accurate and up-to-date information in the CTC-VIS database is key to maintaining compliance.

3. Pay Compliance Fees

After uploading your vehicles, you’ll be required to pay the associated compliance fees. Completing this step is necessary to finalize your registration in the CTC-VIS database. Make sure to handle this promptly to avoid any compliance issues.

Ongoing Compliance Monitoring

Once your account is created and your vehicles are uploaded, CARB will send you monthly email summaries. These emails will inform you of any fees due, and more importantly, they will notify you when your trucks have entered a testing window.

Don’t have time for another email? Let AIRLIMITS monitor your fleet, add service@airlimits.com as a user to your account and we’ll keep watch.

This proactive approach allows you to stay on top of your compliance obligations.

No OBD Testing Required Until October

For most fleet operators, no further action is needed regarding OBD testing until October, unless you receive an NST letter or a citation from CARB. These notifications would require immediate action, including scheduling an OBD test for your vehicles.

Need Help? AIRLIMITS Is Here for You

Navigating CARB regulations and ensuring compliance can be a complex and time-consuming process. That’s where AIRLIMITS comes in. We offer a full range of compliance services to assist you with:

• Creating and managing your CTC-VIS database account
• Uploading your fleet’s information accurately
• Paying compliance fees on your behalf
• Monitoring your account and scheduling tests when your vehicles enter a testing window

With AIRLIMITS by your side, you’ll be notified by CARB when your trucks are due for testing, and we’ll be ready to schedule and perform the necessary tests promptly, ensuring that your fleet remains compliant without any disruption to your operations.

Conclusion

While the mandatory OBD testing won’t start until October for most operators, now is the time to get prepared. By setting up your CTC-VIS account, uploading your vehicles, and paying the required fees, you’ll be ready when the new regulations take effect. And with AIRLIMITS, you have a partner who will guide you through every step of the process.