Vehicle Inspection and Emissions Test Appointments: How They Work

Does your state require one?

Vehicle safety inspections and emissions tests are set by state law, and requirements vary widely: some states require one or both, some only in certain counties or metro areas, and some require neither. Requirements can also depend on the vehicle’s age and fuel type. Your registration renewal notice often says whether a test is due.

Find your state agency through USAGov’s state motor vehicle services directory (external site). In some states the emissions program is run by an environmental agency rather than the DMV.

Finding an official station

States license inspection stations — often repair shops, dealers or dedicated test centers. Use the station list on the official state site. Some stations take appointments online or by phone; many accept walk-ins.

What to bring

Check your state’s list. It commonly includes:

• the vehicle registration (and renewal notice, if you received one);
• proof of insurance;
• your driver’s license;
• payment for the inspection fee (fees are set by each state).

Avoiding a failed test

Before the appointment:

1. Check-engine light: if it is on, have the cause diagnosed and fixed first — it is a common reason for failing an emissions test.
2. Recent battery work: disconnecting the battery can reset the car’s computer readiness monitors; ask a mechanic whether you need to drive for a while before testing.
3. Lights, horn, wipers, brakes and tires: for safety inspections, check that everything works and that tires aren’t worn out.
4. Open recalls: check NHTSA’s recall lookup (external site) and get any recall repairs done.

If you fail

You will normally receive a report explaining why. Your state sets the rules for repairs, retests, deadlines and any waivers. Keep the paperwork and ask the station how retesting works.