California Bureau of Automotive Repair


The Bureau of Automotive Repair is part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs, whose mission is to promote and protect the interests of California consumers. BAR provides a wide range of consumer protection services, including:
BAR was established within DCA in 1972 following enactment of the Automotive Repair Act of 1971. In response to consumer and industry concerns about fraud and incompetence in the automotive repair industry, the Act established BAR as the licensing and regulating authority over automotive repair dealers. The Act also gave BAR authority to license and regulate stations and individuals that perform services in the areas of lamp and brake inspection and repair.
In 1982, California became the 20th state in the nation to adopt a vehicle inspection and maintenance program. BAR became the administrator of the California Smog Check Program in 1984.

Consumer Programs