The Delaware DMV normally requires an emission test to be conducted on vehicles every time a vehicle is registered or registration is renewed. Therefore, when your car comes in for inspection it will be tested to ensure that it meets emission norms applicable for the state.

VEHICLES THAT REQUIRE EMISSION TESTS

Your vehicle will need to undergo emission testing if:

1. It weighs 8500 pounds or less as per the manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating.
2. It is a post 1968 model.

There are various types of emission tests to check a vehicles emissions and the one applicable to your vehicle is based on its year of manufacture.

VALIDITY

Vehicles being registered for the first time in Delaware need to undergo the emissions test. Other than this the test is required every two years based on the model year of the vehicle and whenever the vehicle comes up for renewal of registration.

EXEMPTIONS

The following vehicles are exempt from emissions testing:

1. Vehicles manufactured before 1968.
2. Diesel-powered vehicles manufactured before 1997.
3. Motorcycles.
4. Vehicles within 5 years of model age.

EMISSIONS TESTING LOCATIONS

The state of Delaware has 4 full service testing centers with 21 test lanes.

EMISSIONS TESTING FEES

The DMV does the testing and there are no charges for the same.

EMISSIONS TEST FAILURES

In case your vehicle fails the emission test, you might be given a temporary 15 day or 30 day permit in order to make repairs that will make your vehicle road-worthy. The re-testing is also done free of charge.

WAIVERS AND EXTENSIONS

The DMV only allows a one time 30-day grace period in case the vehicle fails the test. If the vehicle fails the test even after repairs, a waiver may be granted if proof of having spent a minimum amount on repairs can be provided. The minimum amount required to be spent on repairs, so as to get a waiver, is again dependent on the age of the vehicle and the county it is registered in.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• See also Vehicle History Reports.