You’ve been running your smog check station like a pro. You’ve got regulars. You’ve invested in good tech. You’ve been part of the STAR program—maybe for years. Then, one day, you receive a STAR suspension notice from the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR).
Now what?
Let’s break it down. I’ll explain what the STAR program is, what a suspension really means, and why this isn’t something to “deal with later.”
What’s the STAR Program Anyway?
The STAR program is BAR’s way of distinguishing the “good” smog shops from those that cut corners. If you’re STAR certified, you’re allowed to inspect directed vehicles—the higher-risk cars that the DMV sends your way. That can mean more traffic, more revenue, and more long-term customers.
But there’s a catch. To stay in STAR, your shop must follow the rules to the letter. That means keeping your Follow-up Pass Rate (FPR) high, conducting clean inspections, and avoiding detection by BAR’s undercover vehicles.
One slip-up? Maybe you’re fine. But if BAR thinks you’ve had too many problems—or one serious one—they can suspend your STAR certification. And that’s when the wheels start to come off.
What’s a STAR Suspension?
A STAR suspension means you’re temporarily kicked out of the program. You won’t be allowed to test directed vehicles. And if your shop relies on STAR work to keep the lights on, this can quickly impact your bottom line.
BAR used to call this an “invalidation,” but now it’s called a suspension—which sounds temporary, but don’t be fooled. These suspensions can drag on for months, and if you don’t respond quickly and adequately, you might lose your STAR certification altogether.
So yes, it’s a big deal.
Why Is This So Scary?
Because it happens fast—and quietly. Many shop owners don’t realize they’ve been skating close to the edge until the letter arrives. Perhaps your FPR dropped and you weren’t aware. Perhaps your technician made an error during an inspection. Perhaps you were hit by an undercover car and didn’t notice it.
Whatever the reason, once that notice is in your hands, you’re already in deep. And here’s the kicker: you only have 15 days to respond. That’s it.
Miss the deadline? You lose by default.
How a Lawyer Can Help
Let me put it this way: this isn’t small claims court. The BAR has attorneys, inspectors, data analysts—all working to build their case. If you’re walking in alone, it’s not a fair fight.
A lawyer who knows how STAR suspensions work can help you understand why you got the notice, challenge the data, request a hearing, and maybe even get the suspension reversed. We’ve helped shops all over California do just that.
So don’t panic—but definitely don’t ignore it.
You built your shop with sweat and hard work. Don’t let a confusing government notice take it away. Get someone in your corner who knows how to push back.