Does a plug-in hybrid need a smog check in California?

Yes — plug-in hybrids are NOT smog-exempt in California. They receive the same biennial full smog inspection as conventional hybrids, using OBD-II protocol.

• PHEV smog exemption is a common misconception — the combustion engine is still inspected
• OBD-II readiness monitors must be set even on vehicles that run primarily on electricity
• Drive the vehicle in hybrid/combustion mode for 30-plus miles before testing to ensure monitors are set
• Common PHEVs requiring smog: Prius Prime, RAV4 Prime, Wrangler 4xe, BMW 330e, Honda Clarity, Hyundai Tucson PHEV
• EV-only mode driving does not warm the combustion system enough to set EVAP and catalyst monitors

Per BAR smog exemption rules — only pure BEVs (battery-electric only) are exempt.