What is the difference between a smog check and a STAR smog check?

That actual “smog inspection” is the same between a STAR station and a “regular” station. The difference comes down to equipment requirements and the licensing requirements for the smog check station.

So to reiterate, if you bring your 2000 Toyota Camry to a “regular” smog check station and then to a “STAR” smog check station, you theoretically should be getting the exact same inspection.

The California BAR created the STAR program to combat improper/illegal smog testing in California. STAR stations and STAR station technicians are required to maintain a certain level of “accuracy” via a report card in order to remain in the STAR program.

So if you open your DMV registration renewal letter and it states “Required at a STAR Station”, don’t worry, you aren’t getting punished with a harder inspection. It’s the same exact test.