What Is Carb
certification?
CARB certification is an approval issued by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to ensure that engines, vehicles, and products meet the state’s strict air quality and emissions standards. CARB-compliant products produce fewer pollutants, helping reduce smog and protect public health. This certification is especially important for manufacturers and distributors selling in California, but it also serves as a trusted mark of environmental responsibility nationwide. By choosing CARB-certified equipment or products, consumers can be confident they meet rigorous emissions compliance standards, improve air quality, and align with California’s leading environmental regulations.
In California, most diesel-powered vehicles must have CARB certification to be legally sold, registered, or operated. This includes:
New diesel passenger cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks – Must be CARB-certified before sale in California.
Medium-duty and heavy-duty diesel trucks – All commercial trucks over 14,000 lbs operating in California need to meet CARB emissions standards.
Diesel buses – School buses, transit buses, and shuttle buses must comply with CARB diesel regulations.
Off-road diesel vehicles – Construction and agricultural equipment powered by diesel engines require CARB certification.
Imported or out-of-state diesel vehicles – Any diesel vehicle brought into California for sale or use must be CARB-compliant, unless it qualifies for a rare exemption (such as older “49-state” vehicles that cannot be registered).