HEAVY-DUTY VEHICLE INSPECTION PROGRAM (HDVIP)

California's roadside inspection program for commercial trucks and buses

What is HDVIP?

The Heavy-Duty Vehicle Inspection Program (HDVIP) is CARB's roadside enforcement program that targets heavy-duty diesel trucks and buses operating in California.

CARB inspectors conduct random roadside inspections at weigh stations, truck stops, distribution centers, and other locations throughout California. Any vehicle over 14,000 lbs GVWR is subject to inspection.

For Canadian carriers: Your vehicles can be inspected the moment they cross into California. Non-compliant vehicles may be cited on the spot and potentially detained until compliance is achieved.

Truck inspection station

2025 Enhanced Enforcement

With the Clean Truck Check program now fully enforceable, HDVIP inspectors have real-time access to compliance databases. Non-registered or non-compliant vehicles are immediately flagged.

What Inspectors Check

Smoke opacity levels (using SAE J1667 snap-acceleration test)
Emission control labels (ECL) present and legible
No visible tampering with emission systems
Proper DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) operation
EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system functionality
SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system compliance

Common Violations & Fines

ViolationFine Amount
Excessive smoke opacity$300 - $500
Missing/illegible emission control label$300
Tampering with emission controls$2,500 - $10,000
Operating non-compliant vehicle$500 base

Where Inspections Occur

Weigh Stations

Primary inspection points on major highways

Truck Stops

Random inspections at rest areas

Distribution Centers

Targeted enforcement at freight hubs

Port Facilities

Entry points for international freight

How to Prepare

The best defense against HDVIP citations is proactive compliance. Ensure your vehicles are tested, certified, and properly documented before entering California.

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