04/07/2026
🚨 CLEAN TRUCK CHECK REFEREE – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
A lot of people are asking about being “Referred to Referee” under the Clean Truck Check program, so here’s a clear breakdown 👇
đź§ľ WHAT IS THE REFEREE PROGRAM?
The Clean Truck Check Referee Program is an independent inspection process for heavy-duty vehicles (over 14,000 GVWR) when something cannot be resolved through a normal test.
These inspections are handled through CARB’s referee system and are typically required when there are compliance issues, test problems, or enforcement actions.
⚠️ WHEN DO YOU GET SENT TO A REFEREE?
You may be required to schedule a referee appointment if:
• State-directed testing (CARB or law enforcement request)
• Notice to Submit to Testing (NST)
• Submitted incorrect or questionable OBD test data
• Refusal to test or incomplete testing
• Suspected emissions tampering or system issues
• Open CARB enforcement action or citations
• CHP-related violations
• Failure to submit required testing data
🔍 OTHER COMMON REASONS
• VIN / engine mismatch
• Engine change or swap verification
• Alternative fuel system retrofit verification
• Motorhome (RV) conversion verification
• Inspection incompatibility (vehicle won’t test normally)
• No credentialed tester available
• Audit or compliance verification
• Disputing a test result
SPECIAL CASES
You may also go to referee for:
• Parts unavailable (compliance extension requests)
• CARB requesting proof of repairs or compliance
• Vehicles flagged through enforcement systems
🗓️ HOW TO REQUEST A REFEREE APPOINTMENT
1. Log into your CTC-VIS account
2. Go to Forms
3. Select “Referee Appointment Request”
4. Follow instructions to schedule
⏱️ DMV HOLD INFO
• Once you pass → CARB updates DMV automatically
• Allow 3–5 business days for DMV hold to clear
• You still need to contact DMV to complete registration
📬 NEED HELP?
• Clean Truck Check questions: [email protected]
• Citation questions: [email protected]
đź’Ą REAL TALK
A referee situation usually means something was missed, rushed, or not verified before testing.
That’s why it’s important to work with someone who understands:
âś” Readiness
âś” Data validation
âś” Proper test procedures
âś” CARB system requirements
đźš› WE CAN HELP
At North State Mobile Solutions, we help:
• RV owners
• Owner operators
• Fleets