Emissions testing in Georgia is part of the annual inspection required of motorists in certain areas of the state before receiving their car registration. A car emissions test is critical in determining how much pollution a car disperses when in use. Inspections are performed in Georgia in order to determine the safety and emissions of the vehicle.

Find out if you are required to submit your vehicle to an inspection and how to find a test station in your area by reading the sections below.

Georgia Emissions and Smog Check Requirements

Emission test requirements in Georgia vary depending on the circumstances. Testing requirements are determined by the year a vehicle was built by the manufacturer, the type of vehicle owned, and the location where the car is registered. For example, emissions testing in GA is mandatory for all 13 metro Atlanta counties including Cobb, DeKalb, Forsyth, Fulton, and Gwinnett counties. In the counties mentioned above, an inspection is required for cars or light trucks manufactured between 1993 and 2014, and weigh 8,500 pounds or less.

A smog test is not required for motorcycles, recreational vehicles or motorhomes. Smog checks are not required for diesel vehicles looking to be registered. Providing a smog check history may be required in order to receive a replacement registration. Testing is mandatory for all other non-diesel vehicles that are to be registered in a part of the state which required annual checks.

Smog Check Exemptions in Georgia

Emissions inspections in Georgia are not required for every vehicle, and exemptions are provided when necessary. Test exemptions are determined by assessing the type of vehicle owned, the age of the driver and the model year of the vehicle. Testing is not required for vehicles that are over 25 model years old or were manufactured in 2015 or later.

Another smog check exemption in Georgia is available for senior citizens aged 65 years and older, whose vehicle meets the requirements. Testing is also not required for vehicles that have a gross weight rating of more than 8,500 pounds, operate on diesel or other alternative fuel, or are mopeds or other non-motorized vehicles.

Out-of-State Emissions Testing in Georgia

A DMV smog check can be postponed if you or your vehicle will be out-of-state when the emissions testing is due. A test extension may be granted if you are a student, military personnel or away on business.

You can postpone a smog test by filling out the extension application and submitting it electronically or mailing it to the address listed on the form. All testing extensions are valid for up to 1 year.

Emissions Waivers in Georgia

Safety and emissions waivers in Georgia may be available as well, as long as certain conditions are met. To be eligible for a test waiver, the following criteria must be met:

  • The vehicle must have failed inspections and a re-inspection after repairs were made.
  • For cars model year 1996 and older, tailpipe repairs must show improvement, as well as other areas which failed initial inspection.
  • The vehicle’s test-related repairs must meet or exceed the repair cost limit of $879.
  • Itemized proof of repair receipts must be provided.

To receive a waiver, you must submit the Application for Repair Waiver, as well as all the required documentation, either electronically or in person at any one of the Georgia Customer Service Centers.

Testing Fees in Georgia

To find out the emissions test cost in Georgia, the answer depends on where you get your testing completed. The estimated cost of testing is between $10 and $25. More accurate pricing can be found by contacting the inspection station in your area. Accredited smog testing centers have prices listed on the Georgia Clean Air Force sign hanging in their establishment.

Where to Perform an Emissions Check in Georgia

Georgia emissions testing is performed at any authorized inspection facility or emissions testing center, as noted by the Georgia Department of Transportation. Certified testing stations display the official Georgia Clean Air Force sign. Searching “emissions testing near me” along with your zip code will yield the locations closest to you.

Failing a Georgia Smog and Emissions Test

Failing a vehicle test can lead to several results. If your vehicle fails the safety and emissions test, you will need to have your car repaired and re-inspected once the repairs are completed. If the vehicle fails the smog check again, proof of spending over $872 in vehicle repairs may make you eligible for a test waiver.

Certain testing stations offer repairs on site, depending on location. Also, a smog check coupon may be provided for those who are also performing testing at the same location.

Last updated on Tuesday, March 10 2020.