In Oregon, 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, van or bus powered by gasoline, alternative fuels (such as propane) or hybrids, requires an emissions test if,

Within the Portland area boundaries:

• It was registered in 1975 or after
• It has a manufacturer's gross weight rating of 8,500 pounds or less (includes all passenger cars and most light-duty trucks)

Within the Medford area boundaries:

• It is 20 years old or less
• It is a diesel vehicle with a manufacturer's gross weight rating of 8,500 pounds or less

VALIDITY

Once the vehicle passes inspection and is registered, the emissions test does not have to be repeated for two years. A valid test is required to reinstate a suspended registration and to complete an original vehicle registration or registration renewal.

EXEMPTIONS

A vehicle is exempt from emissions testing when:

1. It is a heavy duty diesel-powered vehicle (gross vehicle weight rating 8,501 or more).
2. It is legally registered outside the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) program boundaries.
3. It is a motorcycle or a low-speed vehicle (mopeds, golf carts, tractors, all-terrain vehicles, etc.).

EMISSIONS TESTING LOCATIONS

The authorized Emissions Inspection Stations licensed by the State can test your vehicle. Look for the official sign issued by the DEQ to authorized testing stations. The test standards will be displayed at the stations.

EMISSIONS TESTING FEES

There is a maximum emissions testing fee set by the DEQ. Cash, money order or Credit/Debit (VISA or MasterCard) are accepted. Checks, travelers checks, food stamps or any other type of payment is not accepted.

1. The testing fee in the Portland area is $21
2. The testing fee in the Rogue Valley is $10
3. There is no charge if the vehicle does not pass the emissions test

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. DEQ maintains a recommended list of Recognized Auto Repair Shops in the Portland and Medford areas. Oregon law prohibits disconnecting or modifying the required pollution control equipment. DEQ will check for specific pollution control equipment and if this has been tampered with, it won't pass the vehicle inspection test. There is also no waiver issued by the DEQ for vehicles that are unable to pass the test.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• If you are temporarily out of Oregon at the time your vehicle registration renewal is due, DEQ will accept another state's vehicle emissions test. If the state offers no emission testing, you will need a Statement of Vehicle Outside of Oregon.
• To request a Statement of Vehicle Outside of Oregon form, or for more information, you can call toll-free 1-877-476-0583 (Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm).
• See also Vehicle History Reports.