Diesel Technician License Requirements in California
License RequiredLast verified March 24, 2026
Agency And Exam
Issuing agency: California Bureau of Automotive Repair
Official licensing agency website
Exam provider: State-administered
Reciprocity And License Levels
License levels
Smog Check Technician (diesel-specific endorsement)
Reciprocity states
None listed
Notes
California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) licenses automotive repair dealers and smog check technicians. Diesel technicians working on emissions-related repairs or smog inspections must obtain a BAR license/registration. General diesel repair work does not require a separate state license, but shops must be registered as Automotive Repair Dealers (ARD). ASE certifications are commonly required by employers.