If you're a truck driver or owner-operator and you want to move freight in California, you've probably heard of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and its regulations. CARB's diesel truck rules cover heavier diesel trucks operating in the state, including trucks registered outside California.
CARB requirements change over time, and dates and engine model year rules are set by CARB, not by this article. Before you run loads into California, check your trucks against CARB's current requirements:
Drayage trucks
Drayage trucks that move freight to and from California seaports and intermodal rail yards get an extra check: these facilities must confirm that trucks entering are compliant with Clean Truck Check, or keep records of those that are not (CARB port and railyard requirements). CARB has repealed the separate drayage truck requirements in its Advanced Clean Fleets regulation (CARB rulemaking). If you're planning to haul port or rail freight in California, confirm your truck's status with CARB before you take the work.
What is the Clean Truck Check program?
Under CARB's Clean Truck Check program, covered trucks must be reported in CARB's database, pay an annual compliance fee and submit periodic emissions test results. CARB says these requirements apply to vehicles registered outside California when they operate in the state. Check CARB's Clean Truck Check page for current requirements.
Transport refrigeration unit (TRU) rules for reefers
If you move refrigerated or temperature-controlled freight, your reefer unit must meet CARB's TRU requirements. CARB's TRU rules have been amended and include reporting requirements and operating fees, so a reefer unit is not compliant just because of its model year. Check your units against CARB's current TRU requirements.
TRUs are reported through CARB's ARBER system: arber.arb.ca.gov.
Check your truck's compliance
CARB provides an online tool to help you check whether your truck meets its requirements: CARB truck compliance calculator.
Before you haul into California
Check CARB's current requirements for your truck and reefer before you book freight into or out of the state. A truck that isn't compliant can face enforcement in the state. If you'd like help reviewing your equipment and compliance before you run California lanes, see our DOT compliance services.
