In Connecticut, a vehicle emissions test is required for many original registrations, as well as for annual registration renewals. Renewal notices are sent annually to vehicle owners, and indicate whether and by what date an emissions test must be completed. However, if you recently purchased a used vehicle, you will not receive a renewal reminder and it is your responsibility to have the vehicle tested within 30 days of the registration date. If you have questions regarding this policy, you should contact the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Connecticut Emissions Program at 1-888-828-8399.

VEHICLES THAT REQUIRE AN EMISSIONS TEST

Your vehicle requires an emissions test when:

• It is between four and 25 years old.
• It is a hybrid electric, or runs on gas, diesel or propane.
• It has a vehicle weight rating of up to 10,000 pounds.

Emission tests are required to reinstate a suspended registration and to complete an original vehicle registration or registration renewal. Used car dealers are required to issue a valid emissions test for any vehicle they sell. Getting an emissions test is the buyer's responsibility when the vehicle is purchased from a private owner.

VALIDITY

The emission testing is valid for two years after which you should receive a renewal notice from the DMV.

EXEMPTIONS

Specialized vehicles, motorcycles, newer models, and many older vehicles are exempt from emissions testing. A complete list of exempt vehicles is provided here.

EMISSIONS TESTING LOCATIONS

Any Authorized Emissions Inspection Station licensed by the State can test your vehicle. Look for the official sign issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles to authorized testing stations. The test standards and maximum fees will be displayed at the stations. Only select stations deal with diesel powered vehicles.

EMISSIONS TESTING FEES

The fee for all vehicles is $20 and is to be paid at the time of emission testing. You can generally pay by cash, check or credit card. Emission testing centers accepting only cash will display the sign at the center. A late fee of $20 is charged if you are later than 30 days of your due date for testing. See Emissions Fees for details.

EMISSIONS TEST FAILURES

If your vehicle fails the emissions test, you must have the vehicle repaired, after which it must pass the after repairs emissions free re-test within 30 days. If your vehicle is unable to meet the emissions standard following the necessary repair work, you may be able to obtain a waiver issued by DMV prior to registration. To qualify for a waiver, your vehicle must have failed the emission testing twice and you should produce expenses documentation for repair of the vehicle. For detailed information on test failures, retests and waivers, please refer to Failures and Re-Tests. Check the waiver eligibility before applying for a waiver. Call the DMV at (203) 271-5427 or contact by email at emissions@dmvct.org.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• If you are out of state, in the military, or if your vehicle is otherwise unavailable for inspection, you can request for an extension by requesting in writing that you cannot produce the vehicle for testing and for 30 days thereafter. You can also request an extension if your vehicle has been stolen, was involved in an accident or is undergoing repairs. You should forward all relevant documentation to:

  Department of Motor Vehicles
  Emissions Division 
  Suite 400
  Rowland State Government Center
  55 West Main Street
  Waterbury, CT  06702-2004    

• For more information about emissions requirements for propane-powered vehicles or diesel vehicles.
• See also Vehicle History Reports