California Exempts Three Hybrid Vehicles From Smog Checks SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Three brands of hybrid-electric vehicles no longer require smog checks every two years or when they change owners. The state's Department of Consumer Affairs says it's exempting all model years of the Honda Insight, Honda Civic Hybrid and Toyota Prius. Hybrid-electric cars use both an electric motor and internal combustion engine. State officials say it's a way of encouraging more environmentally friendly vehicles.
In Idaho emissions testing is NOT a statewide requirement. In fact, the only county that I know that is testing anybody is Ada County (where Boise is). So no advantage to hybrids here.