Brake and lamp inspection in Sacramento — it's now the VSSI
If the DMV told you to get a brake and lamp inspection, here's what changed: California retired the separate brake certificate and lamp certificate and replaced both with a single Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection (VSSI). Smog Mart is licensed to perform it, and it's the certificate the DMV will actually accept.
VSSI certificate · cars
What's included
- Everything the old brake certificate covered
- Everything the old lamp certificate covered
- Plus steering, suspension, tires, restraints, ABS and frame
- One certificate, filed electronically with the DMV
What replaced the brake and lamp certificates
For decades, revived salvage vehicles needed two separate certificates — one from a licensed brake station and one from a licensed lamp station. California folded both into the Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection. The new inspection covers the same brake and lighting checks and adds steering, suspension, tires, seat belts, airbag and ABS indicators, and frame condition.
For you, that means one visit, one certificate, one fee — and a licensed station that can also handle any repairs the inspection turns up.
Salvage title? Here’s the full path
Most salvage registrations need a VSSI and a smog certificate. We’re licensed for both, so it’s a single drop-off: we run the VSSI, run the smog, fix anything that’s holding either one up (with your approval), and hand you both certificates. See the VSSI page for the full checklist, pricing by vehicle type, and what to bring.
Brake and lamp inspection questions
My DMV paperwork says 'brake and lamp inspection required.' Is that still a thing?
The paperwork wording lags behind the program. The inspection you need today is the VSSI, and it satisfies that requirement.
Can any brake shop do this?
No. The VSSI can only be issued by a station licensed by the Bureau of Automotive Repair for that program. Smog Mart is one of the few in Sacramento.
How much is a brake and lamp inspection now?
The VSSI is $295 for cars, $395 and up for trucks, vans and SUVs depending on weight.
Do I need an appointment?
Recommended, since it takes 2–4 hours. Call (916) 427-7664 or book online and drop the vehicle off in the morning.
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