If you’re unsure about your state’s emissions test schedule or worried about insuring a vehicle that hasn’t passed a smog check, contact your local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) or an experienced insurance agent. They can clarify what you need to do to stay compliant. Remember, Insure On The Spot’s agents are also available at 773-202-5060 to answer insurance questions and help you stay on the road legally and affordably.
Which states require a vehicle emissions test?
Whether you need to get a smog check depends largely on where you live. In the United States, each state sets its own vehicle inspection laws, and emissions testing is often targeted to areas with air quality concerns. Some states require emissions tests for all vehicles statewide, while others only require testing in certain cities or counties with higher pollution. There are also states that don’t require any emissions testing at all.
According to recent data, 11 states currently mandate periodic emissions inspections statewide, and an additional 18 states require emissions testing only in designated metropolitan or high-smog areas. In total, that means the majority of states (around 29–30 states) have some form of smog check program. By contrast, 21 states have no mandatory vehicle emissions testing program for passenger cars.
States without emissions test requirements include:
- Alabama, Alaska
- Arkansas, Florida
- Hawaii, Iowa
- Kansas, Kentucky
- Michigan, Minnesota
- Mississippi, Montana
- Nebraska, North Dakota
- Oklahoma, South Carolina
- South Dakota, Tennessee
- Washington, West Virginia
- Wyoming
If you reside in one of these states, you generally do not need a smog check to register or insure your vehicle. Keep in mind, though, that local laws can sometimes change. For instance, Minnesota and Florida used to require emissions tests decades ago but have since eliminated their programs as air quality improved. Similarly, Washington State ended its emissions inspection program in 2020, joining the ranks of no-test states. Always verify current requirements with your state authorities, especially if you move to a new state.
For drivers in states that do require emissions testing, the frequency and coverage area can vary. Here are a few examples:
California
Enforces some of the strictest smog check rules. Most areas of California require a biennial (every two years) emissions test for vehicles, with exceptions in certain rural counties. California’s program (often called the “Smog Check”) applies to almost all gas-powered cars once they are a few model years old. If you move into California from another state, your car must pass a smog inspection before it can be registered there.
Illinois
Requires emissions testing in its two largest metro areas. For instance, vehicles registered in the Chicago area or the East St. Louis region must undergo emissions inspections (typically every two years for cars over 4 years old) to renew registration. If you live outside these regions in Illinois, you won’t need a smog check.
Arizona
Only the Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan areas require biennial emissions tests; other parts of Arizona have no emissions test requirement. If you commute into Phoenix or Tucson from another county, you may still be subject to testing. Rural Arizona residents are generally exempt.
New York
Requires a combined annual safety and emissions inspection statewide, except for some very rural areas. The emissions portion of New York’s inspection uses the OBD system to ensure vehicles meet environmental standards. You cannot renew your New York registration without a valid inspection sticker (which includes the emissions test).
Texas
(As of 2025) Texas requires annual emissions testing in major urban counties (such as the Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, and San Antonio areas) alongside annual safety inspections. However, recent law changes will eliminate statewide safety inspections for personal vehicles in 2025, keeping only the emissions test in certain counties. Outside of those counties, Texas drivers don’t need an emissions test for registration.
How often do I need to get an emissions test?
The frequency of required emissions tests (smog checks) depends on your state’s schedule and your vehicle’s age/fuel type. In general, states that require smog checks will have you do it either annually or biennially (every two years). For example, Georgia mandates annual emissions testing in its covered counties (around metro Atlanta), whereas California and Illinois typically require tests every two years for qualifying vehicles.
Many states also tie the testing frequency to the age of the vehicle:
Newer vehicles are often exempt for the first few years
It’s common for states to waive emissions tests on brand-new cars for a set period. For instance, a state might not require any test until a car is over 3 or 4 model years old. (This recognizes that newer models generally run cleaner and are under warranty.) Illinois, for example, doesn’t require emissions testing on cars until they are 4 years old. Other areas might have a 5-year or even 7-year exemption for new cars.
Older vehicles and classics can be exempt or on a different cycle
Many jurisdictions exempt vehicles above a certain age threshold, especially if they qualify for historic or classic car status. For example, some states excuse vehicles 25 model years or older from emissions inspection requirements. Very old cars may be grandfathered under older emissions standards or driven so infrequently that they’re not required to test. (In California, gasoline vehicles made before 1975 are exempt from smog checks, and in some states like Ohio, cars older than 25 years are exempt.)
Electric vehicles are typically always exempt
Since all-electric cars have no tailpipe emissions, no state requires them to undergo emissions testing. So if you drive an EV, you can cross smog checks off your to-do list. (Hybrid vehicles, however, do have engines that produce emissions, so hybrids are usually tested just like gas cars in states that require it.)
Diesel and specialty vehicles
Requirements for diesel-powered vehicles vary by state. Some emissions programs include diesel trucks or cars, while others do not. For instance, in California, newer light-duty diesel vehicles are subject to smog checks, but very old diesels (pre-1997) or heavy-duty trucks may be exempt. Motorcycles are another common exemption – many states do not test motorcycles for emissions. RVs and motor homes might be tested in some areas if they are gasoline powered, but often they’re exempt or only tested under certain weight classes.
Tip: It’s a good idea to mark your calendar for when your next test is due. Driving with an expired emissions certificate can lead to a lapsed registration and potential fines. Staying on schedule will ensure your registration (and thus your insurance and legal driving status) remains in good standing.
What happens if my car fails the emissions test?
A failed emissions test usually means your car is emitting too much pollution or has a malfunction in its emissions control system, such as a faulty oxygen sensor or catalytic converter. Here’s what to expect and do next:
You’ll receive a failure report
The testing center will give you an official printout or report showing which part of the test your car failed. It may include diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) pointing to issues (for example, an O2 sensor reading, high hydrocarbon levels, or an EVAP system leak). This report is important for the mechanic who will fix your car.
You need to get the problem fixed before you can pass
Take your car (and the failure report) to a trusted mechanic or repair shop that deals with emissions issues. They will diagnose and perform the necessary repairs – for example, replacing a bad catalytic converter, repairing exhaust leaks, tuning the engine, or even something simple like tightening the gas cap (a loose gas cap can cause emissions failure!). There is no insurance coverage for these repairs – fixing emissions problems is considered maintenance, so it’s an out-of-pocket expense for the owner. The cost can range from relatively cheap (if it’s just a sensor) to quite expensive (for major exhaust system work), but it must be done to meet legal requirements.
Re-test after repairs
Once repairs are done, you’ll take the car back for a re-test. In most states, there’s no additional fee for a re-test if you do it within a certain time frame (e.g. within 30 days). If the repairs were successful, your vehicle should pass this time and you’ll receive a passing certificate or have the result electronically sent to the DMV, allowing you to renew your registration.
If you still don’t pass
Occasionally, a car will fail again even after repairs. If that happens, don’t give up. Speak with your mechanic – there may be additional or more complex issues to address. In some cases, you might have to undergo a more comprehensive diagnostic. Most states will give you a bit of time to continue trying repairs before any penalties. For example, you might get a 30-day extension on your expiring registration to sort out the issue.
Waivers or exemptions for persistent issues
If your car still cannot pass emissions after multiple attempts, you may qualify for an emissions waiver in certain states. A waiver is essentially permission from the state to register the vehicle despite it not meeting emissions standards, usually granted only if you have spent a certain amount of money and made a good-faith effort to fix the car. The rules vary: you typically must show receipts for specific repairs and that the car still fails. Not every state offers waivers, and those that do often have strict limits. For instance, your vehicle might get a one-time waiver until the next renewal. Check your state’s emissions program rules or ask the testing center about waiver options. (Note: A waiver is a last resort. You cannot get a waiver if you simply neglected to repair the car at all – you must document repair attempts.)
No registration = no legal driving
Importantly, until your car passes emissions (or you obtain a waiver), you will not be able to register or renew the registration for the vehicle. If it’s a newly purchased used car that failed, you generally cannot complete the registration and get plates until it passes a smog check. If it’s your currently registered car and it failed at renewal time, the state usually gives you an grace period to fix it. During that time, drive as little as possible. If your registration deadline passes and you haven’t resolved the emissions issue, your registration can be suspended or expire, meaning you’re not legally allowed to drive that car until it’s fixed. Driving with expired tags due to a failed emissions test can result in a ticket or fine if you’re pulled over.
Does a failed emissions test affect my car insurance?
A failed emissions test can be stressful, but it’s important to know it does not directly impact your car insurance rates or your ability to get insurance. Car insurance companies do not use emissions test results as a factor in setting your premium, and they won’t cancel your policy just because your vehicle failed a smog check. Insurance is mostly concerned with factors like your driving record, claims history, what car you drive, and how much coverage you want – not whether your tailpipe emissions are within legal limits.
However, a failed emissions test can have indirect implications for your insurance if it isn’t resolved. Here’s why:
- Registration and legal driving status: In states that require emissions testing, you must eventually pass the test (or get a state waiver) to renew your vehicle registration. If your car can’t pass, the DMV may refuse to renew your tags or even suspend your current registration. Driving with a suspended or expired registration is illegal. While your insurance policy doesn’t immediately vanish, insurance contracts typically require that you’re using the vehicle legally. If you continue to drive an unregistered vehicle and get into an accident, your insurer might still handle the claim (since you did pay for coverage), but you could be cited for the violation. Moreover, if an insurer learns that your vehicle is not road-legal for an extended period, they could choose not to renew your policy. Progressive Insurance notes that if you can’t register your car due to an emissions failure, you likely won’t qualify for insurance coverage – because it’s illegal to drive the vehicle in that condition.
- No impact on premiums: On a positive note, failing a smog test won’t increase your insurance premium. It’s not like a traffic ticket or claim – there’s no mechanism for an insurer to even know your car’s emissions status, since that’s a matter between you and the state’s testing program. Insurance companies don’t receive reports about inspection results. So you don’t need to worry about a rate hike or penalty from your insurer if your car fails an emissions test. Your policy remains priced the same.
- Coverage during the fix period: If your car is mid-failure (i.e. failed a test and not yet fixed), you should keep your insurance active, especially if you’re going to drive the car to a mechanic or test station. You are still legally required to have insurance to operate the vehicle on public roads, even if the registration is in limbo. It might be tempting to pause or cancel insurance while you sort out repairs, but that can lead to a lapse in coverage which could raise your rates later. Instead, keep the insurance and simply avoid unnecessary driving until the car passes. You might use a temporary operating permit if your state offers one for the purpose of repairs.
Which vehicles are exempt from emissions testing?
There are several categories of vehicles that often do not require emissions testing, even in states that have smog check programs. Exemptions vary by state, but commonly include:
Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Fully electric cars do not produce tailpipe emissions, so they are universally exempt from smog checks. If you drive a battery-electric vehicle (like a Tesla or Nissan Leaf), you won’t need an emissions test.
Newer Vehicles
Most states waive testing for the first few model years of a new car. The cutoff varies – commonly anywhere from 3 to 8 years from the model year. (For example, some states say vehicles from the past 3 model years are exempt, others might exempt up to 5 or 7 years.) The rationale is that new cars typically meet emissions standards and it’s unlikely for a very new car to fail.
Older/Classic Vehicles
Many states exempt antique or classic cars above a certain age (often 20–25 years old or more). If a vehicle is old enough, or registered as a classic/historical vehicle, it may not need regular emissions tests. For instance, a state might exempt any car built before 1995 or any car older than 25 years. Some states have rolling exemptions (e.g. “vehicles 25 years or older” updates each year). Very old cars also might not have modern emission control systems, hence they’re often excluded from testing programs.
Motorcycles and small engines
Many states do not require motorcycle emissions testing. Motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds are frequently exempt due to their lower total emissions and the impracticality of testing them on dynos. Similarly, off-road vehicles, snowmobiles, and other specialty vehicles that aren’t driven on public highways aren’t subject to emissions tests.
Diesel Vehicles
This depends on the state. Some states historically didn’t test diesel passenger vehicles, or only tested those above/below certain weight classes. For example, as cited earlier, diesel vehicles made before 1997 were exempt in some areas, and certain heavy-duty diesels might be exempt or have a separate program. Always check local rules if you have a diesel car or truck – you might be exempt or you might have a modified test.
Other exemptions
Vehicles that are very low mileage or only used seasonally (like certain farm vehicles or hobby cars) can sometimes get exemptions or extensions. Additionally, in some states, kit cars or custom-built vehicles may be handled differently. And as mentioned, if you can’t pass but have spent a lot on repairs, a one-time waiver might exempt you from that cycle’s requirement (though it’s not a permanent exemption from testing, just a temporary pass).
Always verify with your state’s emissions program or DMV which vehicles are exempt. The rules will be clearly spelled out (often on the DMV website under “Inspection Requirements”). If you believe your vehicle should be exempt (say, it’s a fully electric car or a 1965 classic), ensure that the DMV has it categorized correctly so you’re not flagged mistakenly for a test.
Do I need car insurance to get an emissions test?
The emissions testing station itself usually won’t ask for proof of insurance (they care about your vehicle registration or VIN to record the test, not your insurance policy). However, you generally shouldn’t be operating the car at all without insurance, even if it’s just to go for a smog check.
Let’s say your registration is up for renewal and you need to get a smog test first. Even if your registration is temporarily expired or pending due to the needed test, you must maintain liability insurance coverage to legally drive to the test station (most states offer a short grace period or permit to allow you to do this). If you were pulled over or had an accident on the way, lack of insurance would be a serious violation.
One exception: if your car is inoperable or not street-legal, you might tow it to the test station, in which case insurance isn’t required for towing. But if you’re behind the wheel, the law says you need insurance on that vehicle.
FAQ: Common Questions about Emissions Tests and Car Insurance
Q: Do I need a smog check to get car insurance?
A: No, car insurance companies do not require a smog check or emissions test results when issuing a policy. You can purchase auto insurance regardless of whether your vehicle has passed an emissions inspection. The requirement for a smog check comes from the state (for registration purposes), not from your insurer. That said, your car must be in compliance with state laws (including emissions laws) to be driven legally.
Q: Will my insurance be voided if my car fails an emissions test?
A: Failing an emissions test does not automatically void or cancel your insurance. As long as you keep your policy active (keep paying your premium), your coverage remains in force. However, you should address the emissions issue and avoid driving the car until it’s fixed. If you continue driving with a failed inspection and expired tags, you risk legal trouble. In extreme cases, if your registration is suspended for a long period, your insurer might non-renew the policy for that vehicle, but generally they’ll only do so if they learn the car isn’t being kept legal. It’s best to fix the car and pass the test as soon as possible, then update your registration. This way, there’s no interruption to your legal driving status or insurance.
Q: Which states don’t require emissions tests?
A: As of now, 21 U.S. states do not have any mandatory emissions testing program for regular passenger vehicles. Some notable examples are Florida, Michigan, Alabama, Alaska, and Kansas – these states have no smog check requirement at all. Other states with no emissions tests include many in the Great Plains and South (e.g. the Dakotas, Montana, Kentucky, etc.). Keep in mind, even in states without emissions inspections, you still need to maintain valid registration and insurance, and some of those states might have other requirements like VIN inspections or safety checks in certain cases.
Q: Do I need an emissions test to renew my vehicle registration?
A: In many states, yes. If your state or local area requires periodic emissions testing, you must complete and pass the test before the DMV will renew your registration. For example, New York, Illinois, California, Texas, Georgia, and numerous other states will not allow you to renew your license plate tags if the vehicle hasn’t passed a required smog check recently. Typically, your renewal notice will indicate if an emissions (or any inspection) is due. If you’re in a state with no emissions requirement, then you can renew without any test. Always check your renewal paperwork or state DMV guidelines to know what’s required. Driving on an expired registration because you skipped an emissions test can lead to fines or even impoundment, so don’t procrastinate on required inspections.
Q: Will car insurance cover repairs if my car fails an emissions test?
A: Generally, no. Standard auto insurance policies do not cover mechanical repairs or maintenance, including fixes needed to pass an emissions test. Emissions failures are caused by wear-and-tear or mechanical issues (like a worn-out catalytic converter or faulty sensor), which are the owner’s responsibility to repair. Insurance is designed to cover sudden, accidental damage (like collision damage from a crash or comprehensive events like fire or theft), not gradual mechanical breakdowns. The only time insurance might pay for car repairs is if the repair is related to an insured event (for instance, if your car was in an accident and the damage caused it to fail emissions, that accident damage would be covered). But if your car simply failed a smog check due to age or poor maintenance, you’ll need to pay a mechanic to fix it. Some states or local programs offer financial assistance or vouchers for emissions-related repairs for low-income motorists, but that’s separate from insurance.
Q: Can I get a temporary permit to drive if my car hasn’t passed emissions?
A: Many states offer a short-term temporary operating permit or extension if your registration is expired due to an outstanding emissions or inspection requirement. For example, you might be able to get a 30-day permit that lets you drive to mechanics or testing centers while you resolve the issue. This permit is obtained through the DMV and often requires proof that you have an appointment for a test or are in the process of repairs. During this time, you must still have insurance. The temporary permit simply protects you from getting a ticket for expired tags while you work on compliance. Check with your state’s DMV – not all states have a formal permit, but they may note in the system that you’re in an extension period. Do not abuse such a permit – it’s only for the purpose of fixing the problem and completing the required test.
Q: How do I know when my car needs an emissions test?
A: The easiest way is to check your registration renewal notice. States that require emissions tests will typically include a notice on the annual or biennial renewal form (or online system) saying an emissions inspection is due. You can also look up your state DMV’s rules; many have an online tool where you enter your license plate or VIN and it tells you if an inspection is required this cycle. In general, if you’re in an emissions-testing area: expect a test every 1-2 years once your car is past the new-car exemption period. If you’ve lost your paperwork, call your local DMV or vehicle inspection program and ask – they can tell you based on your plate number whether you need a test before renewing. And of course, if you’ve recently moved to a new state or area, check that state’s requirements; you may need a test to register your car in the new location (for instance, moving to California or New Jersey with your car will require getting a smog or inspection done as part of the registration process).
Q: Why do states require emissions tests at all?
A: Emissions tests exist to reduce air pollution and ensure vehicles aren’t grossly polluting the environment. In the 1970s and onward, federal clean air laws (like the Clean Air Act) prompted states to implement vehicle inspection and maintenance programs in smog-prone cities. Cars emit harmful pollutants (carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons) that contribute to smog and health problems. The emissions testing programs identify vehicles that are releasing excessive pollutants (often due to malfunctioning emissions control systems) and require owners to fix them. This helps keep the air cleaner. The tests have been credited with reducing smog in many urban areas. Some states have phased out their programs as air quality improved or if they found the programs weren’t cost-effective, but most densely populated regions still maintain emissions testing as part of their overall environmental regulation strategy. Essentially, the requirement isn’t about insurance or revenue – it’s about public health and compliance with environmental standards.
Q: If my state doesn’t require emissions tests, should I still care about my car’s emissions?
A: Even if you’re in a state with no mandated smog checks, it’s wise to be mindful of your car’s condition. A well-maintained car is not only better for the environment but often runs more efficiently (saving you gas money). If your check engine light is on or the car is running poorly, getting it diagnosed can prevent bigger problems down the line. That said, you won’t have to periodically prove emissions compliance in a no-test state. Just be aware that if you ever sell the car to someone in another state or you move, you might need to get it tested then. Also, keep in mind that insurance requirements apply everywhere – even if you don’t need an inspection, you absolutely do need insurance to drive. So maintain your vehicle for safety and longevity, and carry at least the minimum liability insurance required by law.
Having a clear understanding of your state’s emissions testing rules and how they intersect with vehicle insurance can save you from legal headaches. Car insurance companies will insure you regardless of emissions testing, but it’s up to you to keep your vehicle compliant with state emissions and registration laws. By staying on top of smog check requirements and car maintenance, you ensure your car remains both legal to drive and fully insured, giving you peace of mind on the road. Safe driving!