If you work in Nevada and want access to more automotive technician jobs – and a better paycheck – one way to accomplish both is to become a smog technician. Below, we’ll cover what this job entails and how to become certified.
What being a smog technician involves
Nevada is one of a number of states that has made rules about the emissions produced by their residents’ vehicles. This is because its air quality falls short of the standards put forth by The Clean Air Act of 1970.
The Nevada Emissions Control Program is overseen by the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles and handles:
Which vehicles must be tested
How a vehicle is to be inspected
Applying waivers to vehicles that fail
As you can probably tell, this is something the DMV takes very seriously, which is why you can look forward to a greater auto mechanic salary if you become specialized in this area. Recall that its Congress that demands every state meet certain requirements, so the authorities in Nevada have every reason to ensure residents’ vehicles are acceptable.
Becoming certified as a smog technician
To become certified in Nevada as a smog technician, you’ll need to take a class on the rules and regulations enforced by the Silver State. Upon completion, you’ll be administered a test which you must pass with a score of at least 80%.
Unlike other classes you can take to find more auto mechanic jobs, this one is actually fairly extensive in terms of the material you must review. You will definitely need to become familiar with the following:
The Federal Clean Air Act of 1970 which will detail the Nevada regulations for Vehicle Emission Inspection
Nevada Revised Statuses (NRS) 445B.705 which will explain what an approved inspector is expected to do
Nevada Administrative Codes: 445B.4096, 445B.4098 and 445B.460 which will explain the two different categories of certified smog technicians in Nevada.In case you’re wondering, the main difference between class 1 and class 2 inspectors is that the latter is legally approved to diagnose problems. The former can only address them and apply solutions. Obviously, you’ll be eligible for more automotive technician jobs as a class 2 inspector (and enjoy a higher auto mechanic salary), but the choice of which to pursue will come down to personal preference.
Finally, you will also need to complete an outside training course that covers the basics of vehicle emissions controls. The State of Nevada publishes a list of approved companies that provide this course every year.
You are exempt from this requirement, though, if you have passed either the L-1 Advanced Automotive Engine Performance or the A-8 Automotive Engine Performance courses administered by the National Institution for Automotive Service Excellence.
Once you have gone through all of the above and passed your test, the analyzer manufacturer will provide you with a training certificate that confirms you are proficient in working as a smog technician and adjusting and operating the gas analyzer equipment as necessary in order to obtain the desired rating or ratings on a vehicle.
While you may still wish to pursue other fields as a mechanic, having this certificate will definitely improve your job security and salary.
If you’re already a certified mechanic and you’re interested in working with YourMechanic, submit an online application for an opportunity to become a mobile mechanic.
The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see ourterms of servicefor more details
FAQs
dmv.nv.gov
All persons applying for licensing as a 1G inspector for the first time must either complete an authorized 1G 20 hour course OR be currently certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) in either A8- Engine Performance, or L1-Advanced Engine Performance.
How long does it take for smog check to reach DMV Nevada? ›
Even though the transmission is in real-time, it usually take the DMV 24 hours to propagate the information and post the smog check results to your vehicle's registration record. For this reason, it's best to wait a day after your smog test to complete the renewal online.
Does Nevada accept California smog? ›
If you have moved to Nevada, you are required to register the vehicle within 30 days and take it for an emissions test. Out-of-state smog tests are not accepted by the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
How much do smog techs make in Nevada? ›
As of Jul 4, 2023, the average hourly pay for a Smog Technician in Nevada is $23.79 an hour.
How much do automotive technicians get paid near Las Vegas NV? ›
The average salary for a auto technician in Las Vegas, NV is $43,000 per year.
What year is smog exempt in Nevada? ›
The following vehicles are exempt from emission testing: New motor vehicles on their first three registrations. New hybrid-electric vehicles for the first five model years. 1967 or older.
How many monitors does it take to pass smog in Nevada? ›
How many monitors have to be ready? Program requirements allow up to two (2) monitors to be “not ready” for model years 1996 through 2000. Vehicles 2001 and newer allow only one monitor to be “not ready.”
Who can do a VIN inspection in Nevada? ›
VIN inspections are required in Nevada for any vehicles or trailers which have never been registered or titled in the state of Nevada. VIN inspections may be completed at a DMV office or by the Douglas County Sheriff's Office.
Can I register my car without smog in Nevada? ›
Emission Inspections
Smog checks are required each year in Nevada. You do not need a renewal notice to have a test completed. New vehicles are exempt from emissions tests until the fourth registration.
What is the closest California smog to Nevada? ›
Answer: The closest California smog check station near Las Vegas, Nevada is in Barstow, California located of the 15 freeway. You'll need to bring your vehicle back to California to get a smog inspection.
Nevada's new emissions standards, called Clean Cars Nevada, will set the same standards for exhaust emissions as the California ruleset and will also require automakers to sell an increasing percentage of zero-emission vehicles.
How much do smog techs make an hour in California? ›
How much does a Smog Check Technician make in California? As of Jul 11, 2023, the average hourly pay for a Smog Check Technician in California is $21.11 an hour.
How much does a smog technician earn in Los Angeles? ›
What are Top 5 Best Paying Related Smog Technician Jobs in Los Angeles
| Job Title | Annual Salary | Monthly Pay |
|---|
| Smog Check Technician | $46,875 | $3,906 |
| Smog | $46,028 | $3,835 |
| Work From Home Smog Technician | $45,919 | $3,826 |
| Smog Inspector | $44,669 | $3,722 |
1 more row$29.99 Smog Check Oceanside | STAR Certified | All Smog Check.
What do I need for a smog test in NV? ›
Gasoline-powered vehicles up to 8,500 pounds are classed as light duty. Vehicles 8,501 pounds or greater are considered heavy duty. Diesel vehicles up to 14,000 pounds must undergo emission testing. There is a single fee.
How do I become a field inspector in Nevada? ›
completing a Division-approved course of at least 40 hours; passing a Division-approved state exam; performing supervised 25 home inspections; or a secondary course; and. the ability to produce a home inspection report according to the Standards of Practice.
Do you need a license to be a pharmacy technician in Nevada? ›
In addition to certification, some employers may require you to obtain a license from the Nevada State Board of Pharmacy. To obtain a license, you must submit an application, provide proof of your certification, and pass a criminal background check.
