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Vehicle Emissions Testing in Nevada

Updated on Thu, 4/28/2011

In Nevada, 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.

VEHICLES THAT REQUIRE AN EMISSIONS TEST

A car, truck, motor home or RV (recreational vehicle) requires an emissions test when:

  1. It is a 1968 model or newer
  2. It is driven mainly in the urban areas of Clark or Washoe County.
  3. It runs on gasoline
  4. It runs on diesel fuel, and has a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating up to 10,000 pounds.

VALIDITY

Emission tests are valid for 90 days. A valid test is 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.

EXEMPTIONS

A vehicle is exempt from emissions testing when:
  1. It is a 1967 model or older
  2. It is either a new vehicle, or on its first or second registration
  3. It is a hybrid-electric vehicle less than five years old
  4. It is a motorcycle or moped
  5. It is an alternative fuel vehicle
  6. It is a diesel vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of 10,001 pounds or more
  7. Its ownership or registration is being transferred between spouses
  8. Its ownership or registration is being transferred between companies whose principal business is leasing vehicles with no change in the lessee or operator of the vehicle
  9. It is registered as a Classic Rod/Vehicle and is driven 2,500 miles or less annually.
  10. It is registered as a Replica Vehicle.
  11. It is based in the remote areas of Clark and Washoe counties and all other Nevada counties.

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 light-duty diesel vehicles.

EMISSIONS TESTING FEES

There is a maximum emissions testing fee set by the Department of Motor Vehicles. The fee varies by county, type of vehicle and type of fuel. 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 test. The vehicle can be repaired at the station or elsewhere. Some stations offer discounts or "no-pass, no-pay" deals at the station owner's discretion. 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. If you live in Washoe County, you can apply for a waiver if you can provide authorized receipts showing that you have purchased at least $200 in certain parts in an effort to pass the emissions test. Clark County residents must provide similar receipts totaling at least $450. Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles Emission Test Facility to request a waiver.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION