‘Leno’s Law’ signed, expanding California smog exemptions for classic cars

CALIFORNIA (FOX26) — More classic cars will become exempt from California smog checks after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed “Leno’s Law” into law.

More classic cars will become exempt from California smog checks after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed “Leno’s Law” into law. (Courtesy: Gove. Gavin Newsom)

Senate Bill 1392, backed by Bakersfield Republican Sen. Shannon Grove, will begin expanding the exemption on Jan. 1, 2028.

The law initially adds qualifying 1976 through 1980 collector vehicles to the exemption and will add another model year annually until reaching 1985 models.

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‘Leno’s Law’ signed, expanding California smog exemptions for classic cars (Courtesy: Jay Leno)

To qualify, vehicles must either have collector car insurance or be driven no more than 1,000 miles per year.

Grove spent two years pushing for the change and credited California car enthusiasts, mechanics and families, along with longtime car collector Jay Leno, for supporting the effort.