You make a script with a simple flat database to alert you when you need to get your cars smogged, because it’s easier to decide for myself when it should be done, rather than rely on the DMV postcard/email notification to work.

I’ve added it to my initial login shells so I see it once per newlogin per day. It’s relatively simple in design, and works well for those like me who find their memory isn’t quite as sharp as it once was.

< 1999 9-3 Convertible is PAST DUE (April 15th, 2017)!
= Can renew 2008 9-5 2.3T now!
> Can renew 2000 9-5 Aero on August 6th, 2017.
- 2008 9-3 Turbo X is not up for renewal for over 6 months.
- 2001 9-3 Convertible is not up for renewal for over 6 months.

I’ve coded the responses to be easily read. “Less Than” means overdue, an equal sign shows that it can be reregistered now, “Greater Than” for time in the future, and a minus for a time more than 6 months in the future.

The 1999 isn’t registered as it isn’t roadworthy- yet. It needs a new headgasket and is currently non-op.