What is an Emissions Test?

These pollutants are found in vehicle exhaust, and emissions testing determines whether your car is exceeding the legal levels of these pollutants.  The following emissions-related questions are considered below: 

• Do I need an emissions test?
• How long does an emissions test take? 
• How much is an emissions test? 

Do I Need an Emissions Test? 

There’s a good chance you do. Over 30 states require emissions testing to some degree for registered vehicles. If you’re unsure of AZ’s emissions testing requirements, you can get in touch with the environmental agency for more information. Here are the states that currently require some form of emissions testing: 

• Alaska
• Arizona
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• District of Columbia
• Georgia
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Missouri
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• Wisconsin

Any state not mentioned in the list above doesn’t require emissions testing for registered vehicles within its jurisdiction. 

How Long Does an Emissions Test Take?

Usually, emissions tests take 15 to 30 minutes. However, there are no federal requirements for emissions tests. So, each state and municipality can set its own standards for emissions testing; testing times can vary. Naturally, the more requirements set by the state, the longer the test will take. 

How Much is an Emissions Test? 

The price of emissions testing varies from state to state but typically costs between $15 and $30. Usually, the cost is on the lower side if emissions testing is required yearly.