the "visual test" is for them to be jackasses as far as im concerned. its so they can check the CARB approval numbers on the parts. see how it works is, aftermarket companys pay the state to CARB approve their product, then they jack the prices up because its considered smog legal. its a frickin scam to make money. this way, the state and the company both make profit.

they rip me off, i rip them off with a illegal smog check...and around we go

 

they check to make sure you dont have illegal/stolen parts.

 

i don't think most people in alabama know what "smog" is....a lot of em just learned about fog

but no emissions test and everyone swaps out their cat for a pipe.....if you work for a business and take off a cat, then u are supposed to put a cat back on....no regulations as far as what type, but it has to be some kind of functional catalytic converter.....if you don't and get caught, the business has to cough up 10K for the first offense...but most don't really care though...