Does Connecticut Have Emissions Testing?
Connecticut maintains a vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance program statewide to improve air quality and comply with federal clean air standards. The program has been operational since the early 1980s and currently tests nearly 1.3 million vehicles annually. Unlike many states that limit testing to specific geographic areas, Connecticut requires emissions inspections for eligible vehicles registered anywhere in the state, with testing conducted through a network of more than 200 privately owned automotive service facilities.
Understanding Connecticut Emissions Testing Requirements
The state's emissions testing program operates under the authority of Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 246a, which establishes motor vehicle emissions requirements and inspection procedures. The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles provides oversight of the emissions program, while Opus Inspection manages testing operations, equipment, service, inspector training, and motorist relations.
Which Areas in Connecticut Require Emissions Testing?
Unlike states with geographically limited programs, Connecticut requires emissions testing statewide. All eligible vehicles registered in Connecticut, regardless of county or municipality, must comply with emissions testing requirements.
The program applies to vehicles registered throughout all eight Connecticut counties:
- Fairfield County
- Hartford County
- Litchfield County
- Middlesex County
- New Haven County
- New London County
- Tolland County
- Windham County
Vehicles Subject to Emissions Testing in Connecticut
Under current Connecticut emissions inspection regulations, vehicles between 4 and 24 model years old must pass biennial (every two years) emissions inspections.
Vehicle Age Requirements
The emissions testing requirement applies to vehicles based on their model year:
- Current model year through 4 years old: Exempt from testing
- Model years 5 through 24: Testing required every two years
- Model year 2000 and older: Exempt from testing
Four-Year Exemption Rule: New vehicles are exempt from emissions testing for the first four model years. For example, a 2025 model year vehicle will not require testing until 2029. This exemption period begins with the vehicle's model year, not the date of purchase.
Twenty-Five-Year Exemption: Vehicles with a model year of 2000 or older (25 years or older as of 2025) are permanently exempt from emissions testing requirements.
Vehicles Exempt From Emissions Testing
The following vehicle categories do not require emissions inspections in Connecticut:
By Vehicle Age:
- Vehicles younger than four model-years old (from the current year)
- Model year 2000 and older vehicles (25+ years old)
By Vehicle Type:
- Full electric-powered vehicles (non-hybrid)
- Motorcycles
- Bicycles with motors attached
- Composite vehicles (must be titled as a composite vehicle)
- Vehicles with Dealer, Repairer, or Transporter Plates (only during wholesale or auction transportation)
By Weight Class:
- Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more
By Usage:
- Certain vehicles registered but not designed primarily for highway use
- Farm vehicles
- Diesel-Powered Type II School Buses (under 10,000 lbs GVWR)
Emissions Testing Costs and Fees in Connecticut
According to the Connecticut Emissions Program, the current fees for emissions inspections are:
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Emissions Test Fee | $20.00 |
Payment Methods: All test centers accept cash as a form of payment. Some may accept checks or credit cards, although they are not required to do so.
Where to Get Emissions Testing in Connecticut
Connecticut maintains a network of more than 200 privately owned automotive service facilities certified to conduct emissions testing. Vehicle owners can locate authorized facilities using the Connecticut Emissions Test Center Locator.
Testing Center Options
Connecticut offers two types of certified testing facilities:
Full-Service Test Centers
- Can perform emissions testing on all eligible vehicles regardless of fuel type or model year
- Capable of conducting all test types including older diesel vehicle testing
- Offer comprehensive testing services for any vehicle requiring inspection
OBD Plus Test Centers
- Can perform all emissions testing except on diesel-powered vehicles model year 2007 and older with a GVWR of 8,501 to 10,000 pounds
- Handle the majority of modern vehicle testing needs
- More numerous throughout the state
Testing Center Hours
All test centers maintain the following operating hours:
- Monday through Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Closed: Sundays and state holidays
Scheduling Options
Vehicle owners have flexibility in scheduling their emissions tests:
- Walk-in service: Available at all test centers (no appointment necessary)
- Appointments: Some test centers offer advance appointments, though not all facilities provide this option
Check with individual test centers to determine if appointments are available and recommended.
Connecticut Emissions Program Contact
For questions about the emissions testing program, contact:
- Phone: 1-877-4MYCTVIP (1-877-469-2884)
- Hours: Monday through Saturday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Website: ctemissions.com
Certified Emissions Repair Facilities
If a vehicle fails its emissions inspection, owners can find qualified repair shops through the Certified Emissions Repair Facility Locator. These facilities specialize in emissions-related repairs and must meet specific certification requirements established by the state.
Inspection Timing and Vehicle Registration in Connecticut
Under the registration-based enforcement system, vehicles must pass the required emissions inspection before registration renewal. The Connecticut DMV verifies inspection compliance through the integrated testing database.
Notification and Due Dates
Vehicle owners receive notification about emissions testing requirements in the following ways:
Official Notifications: Owners will receive an official notification postcard at least 45 days in advance of their vehicle inspection due date. Notifications may also be sent via text message or email if the owner has provided this information to the DMV.
Checking Test Due Dates: Vehicle owners can verify their test due date and request email reminders by visiting ctemissions.com and entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Testing Frequency
Most eligible vehicles require emissions testing every two years (biennially). The testing cycle is assigned based on the vehicle's registration anniversary and model year. Vehicles must maintain compliance throughout the two-year testing period.
Grace Period and Deadlines
30-Day Grace Period: Vehicle owners have 30 days following the expiration date of their assigned inspection period to complete required emissions testing without incurring a late fee.
Retest Requirements: If a vehicle fails its initial emissions test, the owner has 60 days to complete necessary repairs and present the vehicle for reinspection without incurring a retest late fee.
Failed Inspections and Repair Requirements
If your vehicle fails its emissions test, Connecticut law provides a structured process for addressing the failure. Detailed information is available in the Failed Testing Resources section of the Connecticut Emissions Program website.
Out-of-State Vehicles and New Residents
New Connecticut Residents
If you are moving to Connecticut [from another state] (https://portal.ct.gov/dmv/vehicle-services/transfer-registration-ct), requirements apply for vehicle registration.
- Emissions test (if vehicle is not within the four-year exemption period)
Vehicle Purchases From Out of State
Whether purchasing a vehicle from out of state or transferring an out-of-state registration to Connecticut, the vehicle must undergo an emissions test prior to Connecticut registration unless it qualifies for an exemption.
Contact Information and Resources
Department of Motor Vehicles
60 State Street, Wethersfield, Connecticut 06161
Phone: 1-800-777-0133 (Automated service 24/7)
Emissions Division Direct: (860) 263-5333 or (860) 263-5611 (Monday-Friday)
Official Website: Connecticut DMV
Connecticut Vehicle Inspection Program (Opus Inspection)
Phone: 1-877-4MYCTVIP (1-877-469-2884)
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Official Website: CT Emissions
Online Services:
