Street Legality & CARB FAQ: What You Need to Know Before You Upgrade
Why CARB & Street Legality Matters
When you’re upgrading your ride, making power is only part of the equation, staying street legal matters too. CARB (California Air Resources Board) sets the emissions rules not only for California but also for states that follow the same standards, like New York. If your parts aren’t CARB-approved, your car or truck might not pass inspection, which means no legal driving on public roads. That’s why choosing emissions-compliant upgrades is just as important as chasing horsepower, especially if you want a build that’s fast, reliable, and worry-free come smog test time.
1. What is CARB, and why does it matter for performance parts?
CARB stands for the California Air Resources Board. They set the emissions standards for vehicles in California and other states that follow the same rules (like New York). If your aftermarket part isn’t CARB certified, it’s not legal for use on public roads in those areas, and your vehicle won’t pass a smog test. So if you’re modifying your ride in a CARB-regulated state, it’s critical to stick with emissions-approved parts.
2. What does it mean when a part is “CARB Exempt”?
For a part to be considered CARB Exempt, it has to undergo extensive testing by the California Air Resources Board. If it passes and proves it doesn’t negatively impact emissions, it earns an Executive Order (EO) number and is approved for street use. That means it’s legal to install and drive within all 50 states, including strict CARB states like California.
3. What’s a CARB EO number and where do I find it?
A CARB EO (Executive Order) number is your proof that a part is emissions-legal in California and other CARB states. It means the part has been tested and approved by the California Air Resources Board. You’ll usually find the EO number on a sticker, metal tag, or stamped right onto the part. When you go in for a smog or emissions test, this number must be clearly visible to the inspector, so don’t cover it up or lose the documentation that comes with your part.
4. Can you ship non-CARB parts to California or other CARB states?
We don’t ship non-CARB compliant parts to California, New York, or any other state that enforces CARB regulations. These areas have strict emissions rules, and certain parts simply aren’t approved for on-road use. If you’re unsure what’s allowed in your state, give us a call and we’ll help you find the right part that meets local requirements.
5. What happens if I order a non-CARB part and I live in California?
We’ll have to cancel or modify your order if it includes something not legal for sale in CARB-regulated states. We’re here to help though, our team can recommend similar parts that are street legal and still bring the heat.
6. How do I find CARB-legal parts on your site?
Look for “CARB Approved,” “50-State Legal,” or “EO Number Included” in the product description. Even easier, check out our CARB-Compliant Parts Collection for a full lineup of street-legal performance gear.
7. What kinds of parts are usually regulated by CARB?
If it changes airflow, fuel delivery, or emissions in any way, it’s probably regulated. That includes superchargers, air intakes, headers, exhaust systems, catalytic converters, and tuners. Always check for a CARB EO number before buying.
Any part that affects airflow, fuel delivery, or the emissions system is likely to be CARB regulated. That includes things like superchargers, cold air intakes, headers, exhaust components, catalytic converters, and tuning devices. Always check for a CARB EO number before buying if you’re in a state that enforces these rules.
8. Are there superchargers that are CARB legal?
Yep, and they still rip! Brands like Whipple, Paxton, Vortech, and Edelbrock offer CARB-compliant supercharger kits that come with everything you need, including an EO number. Power + legality = win-win.
9. Are long tube headers legal in California or other CARB states?
In most cases, no. Long tube headers usually aren’t CARB approved unless they have an EO number, and that’s pretty rare. If you’re in California or another CARB-regulated state, your best bet is to go with shorty headers or an exhaust setup that’s specifically labeled as emissions-compliant. Always double-check for an EO number before buying.
10. Are cold air intakes legal in California?
Some are, and we carry them. Cold air intakes from trusted brands like JLT, Roush, and Airaid often have CARB approval. Just make sure the intake you’re buying has an EO number or is marked as 50-state legal.
11. Will I pass smog with a CARB-exempt part?
Yes, as long as the part is truly CARB-exempt, properly installed, and the EO number is clearly visible on the part itself (or on the included tag or sticker), you should pass your smog check. Smog inspectors in CARB states are required to verify that EO number during the inspection, so make sure it hasn’t been removed, covered, or misplaced. Keep any extra documentation in your glovebox just in case.
12. How can I check if a part is CARB approved before I order?
Easy, just use the CARB EO Search Tool to verify the Executive Order number by part or manufacturer. Or give our team a call, we’ll help make sure you get the right gear for your location.
Need More Help?
Contact us or call us at 1-855-827-7223.
