A How-To Guide for the California Truck Check (CTC) Heavy-Duty Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) Program

Overview

The California Clean Truck Check (CTC) Heavy-Duty Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) Program mandates periodic emissions testing and compliance verification for heavy-duty vehicles operating within the state. As a smog inspection station, you can expand your services to include testing for this program. This guide will walk you through the steps to become a certified HD I/M tester, perform inspections, and comply with reporting requirements.

Step 1: Obtain HD I/M Tester Credential

To conduct compliance tests for the HD I/M program, individuals must obtain a HD I/M tester credential issued by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

• Complete the Training:
  • Enroll in a CARB-developed training course.
  • The course will cover:
    • Regulatory requirements of the HD I/M program.
    • Opacity testing methods (SAE J1667 Snap-Acceleration Smoke Test Procedure).
    • On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) testing procedures.
    • Visual inspection methods for vehicle emissions control equipment.
• Pass the Exam:

• Achieve a passing score of 80% or greater on the training course exam administered by CARB.

• Receive Credential:

• Upon successful completion of the course and exam, CARB will issue a HD I/M tester credential. This credential is valid for two years.

• Maintain Credential:

• Retake the training and pass any required exams before the expiration of your credential to continue providing testing services.

Step 2: Prepare Your Station

Ensure your station has the necessary equipment and is ready to perform the tests required by the HD I/M program.

• Obtain Necessary Equipment:

• Certified Continuous or Non-Continuous Connected Remote On-board Diagnostic (ROBD) Devices for OBD-equipped vehicles.
• Smoke meters calibrated for the SAE J1667 Snap-Acceleration Smoke Test Procedure.

• Set Up Reporting Systems:

• Your station will need to connect to CARB’s electronic reporting system to submit test results.

Step 3: Conducting HD I/M Compliance Tests

Follow these steps when performing HD I/M compliance tests:

• For OBD-Equipped Vehicles:

• Use a certified ROBD device to perform the compliance test.
• Ensure that the vehicle passes all criteria, including no active or permanent Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), proper functioning of the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL), and that the vehicle’s OBD system data matches the original equipment manufacturer’s configuration.

• For Non-OBD-Equipped Vehicles:

• Perform a smoke opacity test using the SAE J1667 procedure.
• Conduct a visual inspection of the vehicle’s emissions control equipment.

• Compliance Criteria:

• Ensure the vehicle meets all the necessary criteria for passing, such as acceptable smoke opacity levels and proper installation of emissions control systems.

Step 4: Submitting Test Results

After conducting the tests, submit the results to CARB’s electronic reporting system.

• OBD Data Submission:

• Submit all required OBD data, including VIN, compliance test results, and any relevant DTCs.

• Smoke Opacity Test Data Submission:

• Report the initial and average smoke opacity levels, as well as details about the testing equipment used.

• Visual Inspection Report:

• Submit the results of the visual emissions control equipment inspection.

Step 5: Recordkeeping and Compliance

Maintain detailed records of all tests and inspections performed.

• Store Records:

• Keep records of all testing data, including vehicle information, test results, and tester credentials.

• Audits:

• Be prepared for potential CARB audits by ensuring that your records are complete and up to date.

• Compliance with Penalties:

• Ensure accurate data submission to avoid penalties for non-compliance or submission of fraudulent data.

Step 6: Pricing Strategy

Implement a pricing strategy that reflects the value of your services while remaining competitive in the market.

• Standard Pricing:

• $50 per compliance check for vehicles equipped with 2013 and newer engines. These vehicles typically require OBD testing, which is more straightforward and less time-consuming.
• $70 per compliance check for vehicles equipped with engines older than 2013. These vehicles may require more comprehensive testing, including smoke opacity tests, which justify the higher fee.

• Volume Discounts:

• Offer volume discounts to encourage fleet owners to bring multiple vehicles to your station:

• 5-9 vehicles: 10% discount per vehicle.
• 10-19 vehicles: 15% discount per vehicle.
• 20 or more vehicles: 20% discount per vehicle.

• Bundled Services:

• Consider offering bundled services, such as combining the HD I/M compliance check with regular smog inspections or other maintenance services at a discounted rate.

• Promotional Offers:

• Launch introductory offers or seasonal promotions to attract new customers, such as a percentage discount for first-time clients or during slower business periods.

Step 7: Marketing Your Services

Promote your station as a certified HD I/M compliance tester.

• Update Marketing Materials:

• Include information about your HD I/M testing services on your website, brochures, and other marketing materials.

• Educate Clients:

• Inform your customers about the new HD I/M requirements and encourage them to use your station for their compliance needs.

• Build Partnerships:

• Partner with freight companies, brokers, and fleet owners to become their preferred provider for HD I/M compliance testing.

By following this guide and implementing a strategic pricing model, your smog inspection station can efficiently integrate HD I/M compliance testing into your services, meet the growing demand, and enhance your revenue streams.