The Smog Check Referee program has helped support the training of hundreds of future smog technicians through the Student Technician Training Program (STTP).

The program was developed with guidance from the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) and several Career and Technical Education (CTE) subject matter experts. In 2017 the STTP was again updated, resulting in a more focused, effective, and efficient program. STTP participants gain invaluable, real-world experience while working alongside the highly skilled and experienced Smog Check Referee staff. The STTP is a comprehensive 240 hour program (periodically, shorter term programs may be available), which employs extensive hands-on exercises designed to aid in the education of automotive students. 

The STTP supplements the BAR required courses and conventional automotive technician training students receive at a California Community Colleges. The STTP reinforces the core skills needed to become a successful smog technician. Additionally, it gives each student training in the areas of safety, communication, and administration. Combined with the core skills training, this additional support helps to ensure students learn the essential skills necessary to become a gainfully employed, high-performing, professional technician in today's automotive test and repair industry.