Tag: Emissions Test

Indiana – General Emissions Information

Last updated on April 26th, 2018

There are many common questions that residents of Indiana have about the state’s emissions testing program and requirements to pass the Indiana emissions inspection.  This section will look at the most frequently asked questions and their answers concerning the Indiana emissions testing program.

How often does my vehicle need to be brought in for emissions testing?

In Indiana, emissions testing is required every two years.  If your vehicle was manufactured in the last four years it is exempt from requiring emissions testing until it is five years old.  Emissions testing in Indiana is done on an odd year/even year basis, meaning if your vehicle was manufactured in a year ending with an odd digit (such as 1997) you will need emissions testing to be done on odds years (such as 2013, 2015, 2017), and if your vehicle was manufactured on a year ending in an even digit your vehicle will need to get emissions testing done in years ending on an even digit.

When will I need to get my vehicle’s emissions tested?

In order for you to renew your registration in Indiana you will need to have your vehicle pass the Indiana emissions inspection.

How will I know if I have an emissions test that I need to complete?

You will be notified if you live in Lake and Porter counties by the Indiana Department of Motor Vehicles when you have an emissions test due.  Indiana will send this notice out to you about two months prior to the due date of the emissions test.

Do I need to wait for the emissions testing notice in order to have my vehicle’s emissions tested?

No, you can have your emissions tested earlier if you wish.  Vehicles can have emissions testing done as early as October of the year prior the due date.

Is there a customer service number or email if I need to contact someone from Indiana’s Clearn Air Car Check program?

Yes, you can call toll free 888-240-1684 or you can send an email to [email protected] if you would like to reach someone to speak with.

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Washington DC – General Emissions Information

Last updated on November 9th, 2017

There are many commonly asked questions concerning Washington DC emissions laws and testing policies.   Here we will cover these frequently asked questions and their answers in order to help you find the information you are looking for concerning Washington DC emissions.

How do I go about having my vehicle inspected for the first time?

In Washington DC it is required for residents to have their vehicles tested for emissions prior to being able to have their vehicle registered.  Brand new vehicles that have a MCO and are non-commercial use are waived from needing an emissions test initially.

How much does it cost to get the vehicle emissions testing inspection done?

The emissions testing inspection fee is $35 and the test results are valid for two years.

Is there a late fee assessed if I get testing done after my due date?

Yes, there is a $20 fee assessed for every 30 days you are late.  This fee will be capped at $480.

Am I able to make an appointment ahead of time to get my vehicle’s emissions tested?

You are able to use an online scheduling service which is available 24 hours per day.  You can access that scheduling service here if you want to set up your appointment for your emissions test.

When and how do I pay for the emissions testing fee?

The fees for your vehicle’s emissions testing are due at the time of registration and registration renewal of your vehicle.  It is possible that depending on your registration date you have already paid the fee for the inspection or you may need to pay it when your next renewal arrives.  The inspection fee you pay includes 2 re-inspections for free if your vehicle requires them.  They must occur within the 20 day period after you initially fail the test.

How long is the wait to get my vehicle emissions tested?

The wait time varies on a day to day basis.  Vehicles are tested on a first come first serve basis.  If you scheduled your appointment online you will get to move past the inspection station gates and go directly into the que for the inspection station lane.

 

 

 

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Connecticut – Emissions Testing Hours Schedule

Last updated on April 26th, 2018

Connecticut – Emissions Testing Hours Schedule – The state of Connecticut Vehicle Emissions Testing program has certain testing hours and a testing schedule that you should be aware of prior to to getting your car tested.  The vehicle emissions testing official hours are Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.   It is recommended that you call the testing center ahead of driving there to ensure they are open.

Holidays and non working days

The vehicle emissions testing program is closed on certain holidays each year.  These holidays are New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.  You should plan your vehicle emissions testing date accordingly.

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Delaware – General Emissions Information

Last updated on March 4th, 2021

Delaware General Emissions Information – The state of Delaware requires emissions testing on vehicles of Delaware residents.  There are many common questions that residents have about the Delaware emissions testing program and this section will look at some of the most frequently asked questions and their corresponding answers.

Can I apply for a waiver and if so, how?

There are certain criteria that must be met in order for a resident to apply for a waiver in regards to their vehicle’s emissions test.  Waivers are granted not to excuse a vehicle from an initial test, but for vehicles that have failed multiple tests even after repairs have been made on the vehicle to fix the issue found during the emissions inspection period.  In order to receive a waiver the following conditions must be met:

1.  Your vehicle must have failed the emissions inspection at least 2 times or more.

2.  The parameters of your vehicle’s engine are set to the specifications determined by the vehicle’s manufacturer.

3.  You have spent above a set limit in repairs on the vehicle in regards to items repaired specifically for emissions purposes.  If your vehicle is from 1981 or newer the threshold that must be reached is $810 in repairs.  Vehicles manufactured prior to 1981 have a threshold of $75 in repairs.

4.  The reasons for the emissions inspection failure was not due to visible smoke or missions emissions control equipment.

When you present the waiver application to the DMV you must have all the receipts for the repairs you had done along with the vehicle inspection reports from your failed emissions tests.

Who sets the emissions standards for exhaust levels?

This exhaust levels set for the emissions inspection are set by the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

How much does emissions testing cost?

In the state of Delaware, residents get their vehicle’s emissions tested for free.

How often do I need to get my vehicle’s emissions tested?

Vehicles are required to get their emissions tested once every two years.  You must get your emissions tested before you are able to renew your vehicle’s registration.

How will I know if I need to get my emissions tested?

The DMV will send you a registration renewal notice about ninety days prior to when your current registration will expire.  At this point you should begin to consider getting your emissions tested.

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What You Need to Know About Your Check Engine Light

Last updated on March 4th, 2021

Check Engine Light – The state of Colorado requires emissions testing on most vehicles in the state. But did you know that if your check engine light comes on, it could mean that your vehicle is no longer safe on the environment?

We all know that when our check engine light comes on, it means that our vehicle needs some sort of maintenance, it can be something simple, or something more serious. The problem is, most people don’t realize that when you drive your vehicle while the light is on, you are exposing the air to dangerous toxins.

Your vehicle is no longer in good standing with emissions laws, because there is something wrong with the vehicle. It’s also dangerous to drive a vehicle while the light is on because something could go wrong while driving, resulting in an accident. You should have your vehicle checked before driving it again once the engine light comes on.

It’s usually something simple, like a loose gas cap, or its time to replace spark plugs. Don’t be afraid when your check engine light comes on, it’s usually something cheap and easy to repair. So the next time your check engine light comes on, keep in mind that you could be polluting the air around you, and that not only effects you, but the people around you.

Filed under: Colorado, Articles, State Emissions TestingTagged with: ,

Florida Car Insurance

Last updated on April 26th, 2018

Florida Car Insurance – The state of Florida is one of only a handful of states to have a no-fault insurance laws whereas most other states are tort states, or states that place blame for a traffic accident on one person or another and it is the at fault driver that is financially responsible for all damages. Tort states typically require liability insurance which serves to protect the policy holder from financial liability in an accident but because Florida is a no-fault state, and Florida Car Insurance laws are a bit unique. Like every other state, Florida still requires its residents to meet minimum liability car insurance requirements in order to legally drive a vehicle. As of 2009 these requirements were set at $10,000 for bodily injury to one person, $20,000 for bodily injury to two or more people and of course $10,000 in property damage coverage. These coverage minimums are established by Florida’s Financial Responsibility Law which states that a drive must have the previous mentioned coverage when one of the following situations arise

 

-The policy holder is involved in a crash that is their fault

-The policy holder’s license is suspended because too many points were accrued

-The policy holder receives a citation for a DUI and their license is suspended

-The policy holder loses their license because they are a habitual traffic offender

-The policy holder has their license revoked for any reason

 

In addition to its financial responsibility law the state of Florida also operates under a no-fault law which requires anyone that has resided in the state at least 90 days during the last year to meet certain insurance requirements. These requirements included a minimum of $10,000 in personal injury protection as well as a minimum of $10,000 in property damage liability coverage.  The personal injury protection insurance is meant to compensate the policy holder if they are in an accident and they sustain injuries and/or miss work due to those injuries. The property damage liability coverage on the other hand is intended to help pay for property damaged sustained in an accident by someone other than the policy holder.  Unlike property damage coverage, which is typically placed on a certain vehicle, personal injury protection in Florida is purchased for individuals and is not limited to a certain vehicle, meaning that even if the policy holder is a passenger in a vehicle they do not own when they are involved in an accident the coverage is still in place and can be used if the other driver does not have the required insurance.

Although underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage is not required by the state of Florida in order for a vehicle to be legally driven it is one of the many forms of coverage that Florida residents have the option to purchase. In fact, any insurance company that does business in Florida is required by law to offer underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage to their customers. If a driver decides not to purchase underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage as a part of their policy the insurance company is required to issue a declaration page with the policy stating that the policy holder willingly opted out of underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage.

If a driver is found to be driving without the minimum required amounts of car insurance  on a vehicle they risk facing a fine and could even have their license and registration suspended for a period of up to three years.  If the registration of a vehicle is suspended the owner must pay a mandatory $150 reinstatement fee and provide proof of insurance to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles before it can be reinstated.  The $150 reinstatement feel will continue to increase for subsequent offense and can reach s high as $500. In the state of Florida there is very little chance for drivers to skirt the system and avoid purchasing the minimum amounts of coverage as required by state law due to the many different ways the state government has of locating uninsured drivers. In addition to traffic stops and car accidents an uninsured drive can also be found when they are reported by the insurance company. Florida Car Insurance law requires that insurance companies notify the HSMV when a customer cancels a car insurance policy or allows it to lapse. If a driver is reported as having canceled their policy and the state does not receive any updated policy information they will directly request proof of insurance from the driver.  If the driver does not provide this information immediately they are at risk of having their license, registration and tag suspended for a period of up to one year. While the HSMV may allow for a small grace period for the Florida driver to provide proof of insurance legally all three items can be suspended after just one day of a reported lapse in coverage.

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Maine – Emissions Testing Hours & Schedule

Last updated on November 15th, 2017

Maine – Emissions Testing Hours Schedule – The state of Maine allows privately owned dealerships, auto repairs shops, and auto tech shops to perform emissions testing on vehicles.  Here is a list of emissions testing locations in Maine.  Because each location is unique there are no set hours or schedule to have your emissions tested in Maine.  It is recommended that you call the location you plan on attending ahead of time to check their hours, schedule, wait times, and if they accept appointments.

Emissions.org will give you a comprehensive information on all the relevant contacts. Browse the States and their Counties to find the information you need.

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Massachusetts – General Emissions Information

Last updated on March 4th, 2021

Massachusetts – General Emissions Information – The state of Massachusetts requires emissions testing on most vehicles and there are many common questions that vehicles owners in Massachusetts have concerning the emissions testing program.  This section will cover some of the most frequently asked questions about the Massachusetts emissions inspection program and provide the answers to these questions.

Does every vehicle need to be tested for emissions in Massachusetts?

There are certain vehicles which are not intended to be driven on the roads in Massachusetts and these vehicles do not require an emissions test.  These vehicles would be:  ATVs, Loaders & Haulers, Backhoes, Bulldozers, Cranes, Excavators, Platform Lifters, Motor Graders, Pavers, Tractors and farming equipment, and Tracked Vehicles.

How often do I need to have my vehicle’s emissions tested in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts your must have your vehicle’s emissions tested every year before the current inspection sticker expires.

What if I purchased a new or used car, do I need to have the emissions tested?

Yes, you must get your vehicle’s emissions inspection done within seven calendar days from the date you get the registration.

Is there a customer service number to speak to someone about the Massachusetts emissions inspection program if I cannot find the answer to my question online?

There is a Motorist Hotline 1-866-941-6277 for Massachusetts motorists.  There is also the Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236

Is there a fee to get my emissions tested?

Yes, there is a $29 fee which you need to bring with you (along with your registration) when you bring your vehicle in for emissions testing.

What happens after the emissions test is complete?

After your emissions testing is complete there will be a sticker printed out for your vehicle and you will also get a copy of the vehicle inspection test results.  This report will tell you if your car passed or failed the test, and if your vehicle had issues it will direct you as to what the failing area was.

If I’m required to get a federal DOT inspection do I need to do this and get the vehicle’s emissions tested?

No, if you get your Massachusetts emissions inspection done this will allow you to meet the federal DOT requirement.  The paperwork you receive after you pass the emissions inspection is proof that can be used to signify you met the DOT requirements.

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Mississippi Car Insurance

Last updated on April 26th, 2018

Mississippi Car Insurance – The state of Mississippi has had compulsory car insurance in some form or another since the 1950’s. Despite over 60 years of requiring residents to maintain car insurance on their vehicles, Mississippi has the second worst uninsured motorists rate in the country, behind only New Mexico. As of 2012, the uninsured motorist rate for the state of Mississippi was an astounding 28 percent, twice the national average, underscoring a problem the state has had with car insurance enforcement for the last decade. As recently as February 2012 state lawmakers have attempted to get uninsured motorists under control by proposing new laws that would aid in the enforcement of Mississippi car insurance regulations.  Introduced in 2012, House Bill 480 will require all vehicles to have proof of insurance before they can be registered with the DMV. If passed the bill will also create a database of all vehicles registered in Mississippi and their current insurance status which will e used by law enforcement officers to instantly check if a vehicle has insurance during any traffic stop or after an accident. The database system is in use by many states and has proven to be quite effective, especially in Georgia and Wyoming, and because it is linked directly to insurance companies the insurance status of a vehicle would be updated instantaneously. If it is signed into law House Bill 480 will also establish a series of fines intended to penalize drivers that are caught driving uninsured. The proposed fines would cost a driver $300 for a first offense, $400 for a second offense and $500 for a third offense.

Although Mississippi has a high rate of uninsured drivers, car insurance is still required by state law, even if the methods of enforcement have not yet been put entirely in place. According to Mississippi, car insurance law drivers must obtain minimum levels of liability insurance on a vehicle before they can take it on a public road. These minimums are currently set at $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in bodily injury liability insurance as well as $25,000 in property damage coverage. If a Mississippi resident does not want to purchase an auto insurance policy that meets these minimum levels of coverage set by the state they always have the option to post a bond or make a deposit in cash or securities with the state. A bond or deposit made with the state in lieu of purchasing a car insurance policy must be in the same amount as the combined total of bodily injury and property damage insurance required by the state. In addition to required liability coverage, when purchasing a policy in Mississippi drivers also have the option to voluntarily purchase a variety of other types of insurance coverage for their vehicle. One of the most common types of coverage that Mississippi motorists add to their car insurance policies is collision coverage. Collision coverage will pay for any damages to the insured vehicle should it be involved in an accident in which the driver of the insured vehicle is at fault. If the driver of the insured vehicle is not at fault the at-fault driver’s property damage coverage will pay for any damage. Comprehensive coverage is also popular with many drivers because it covers all sorts of damage to a vehicle not caused by another car, such as hail or debris on the road. Drivers also have the option of purchasing personal injury protection which will cover any medical payments as well as lost wages that result from injuries sustained in a car accident that was not the policy holder’s fault. Because Mississippi requires liability coverage and other forms of coverage are available to driver there is not much need for uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage in the state.

Until House Bill 480 passes the penalty for driving without insurance in Mississippi will remain the same as it was ten years ago. If a driver is pulled over for a traffic violation or involved in an accident they may be required to provide proof of insurance to law enforcement. If this proof cannot be provided the uninsured drive could face a fine as high as $1,000 and the registration of the vehicle could be suspended for up to 1 year. If the driver can provide proof of insurance or some other proof of financial responsibility at the time of their court hearing they could have their fine reduced and be permitted to reinstate their registration. Although these penalties are considered adequate the establishment of a complete database that can be consulted by law enforcement officers any time and anywhere should greatly increase the enforcement of current Mississippi car insurance laws. Such a database would allow an officer to know before he even pulls a vehicle over whether or not the vehicle meets the state’s financial responsibility requirements.

Find Smog Check Stations Near Me

Even though Mississippi drivers are not required to pass any smog check requirements, Mississippi-registered drivers can get a voluntary vehicle emissions test done. Check out our DMV & Emissions Testing Locations in Mississippi pages below to find a DMV office or testing location in your area.

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Illinois – Emissions Testing Hours & Schedule

Last updated on March 4th, 2021

For the state of Illinois, it is required that the emissions test is carried out every two years. The cars that must be tested are the cars build four years ago or older than that. The two-year inspection must be done before the registration renewal is due. Due to this two year rule, even model years are tested on the even year and odd model years take emissions test on odd years. You also need to check the other state of Illinois regulations and requirements for emissions testing.

The state will send you a notice stating that your car is due for the emissions test. You will need to bring this notice with you for the testing. In order for the car to be eligible for registration renewal, it must successfully pass the Illinois emissions testing. If your car is due for the test, you’ll need to first find the nearest Illinois emissions testing station. To find a location near you, click here.

Illinois emissions testing stations hours

Once you’ve selected your location, you’ll then need to check emissions testing stations hours and availability. Illinois emissions testing stations hours can vary depending upon the location of the service center at which you are going to do your emissions test. For example, emissions testing hours in Naperville are 8:00 AM–6:00 PM, while for some stations for emissions testing hours in Skokie are 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. On Saturdays, most vehicle emissions testing stations work from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Make sure you get the right information by contacting the emissions test location prior to visiting. You can find the nearest station by visiting the locations page for your county. Make sure that your chosen date is not Sunday or a Federal Holiday since most Illinois emissions testing stations are closed on these dates. You can check the dates of Federal Holidays in the table below.

Federal Holidays are:

Holiday 2017 2018
New Year’s Day Monday, January 2 Monday, January 1
Martin Luther King Day Monday, January 16 Monday, January 15
Lincoln’s Birthday Monday, February 13 Monday, February 12
Washington’s Birthday
(President’s Day)		 Monday, February 20 Monday, February 19
Memorial Day Monday, May 29 Monday, May 28
Independence Day Tuesday, July 4 Wednesday, July 4
Labor Day Monday, September 4 Monday, September 3
Columbus Day Monday, October 9 Monday, October 8
General Election Day Tuesday, November 6
Veterans’ Day Friday, November 10 Monday, November 12
Thanksgiving Thursday and Friday
November 23 and 24		 Thursday and Friday
November 22 and 23
Christmas Monday, December 25 Tuesday, December 25

*Please note that the holidays can change since the state is continuously negotiating with various unions.

Illinois Air Team Car Emissions Testing

If you are going to have your car tested by the Air Team appointment only testing station, you can call to set up an appointment. The number to speak with a representative is (844) 258-9071. You can also call to find out how long the current waiting times are for the emissions testing centers.

Illinois emissions testing stations schedule

It is best if you book an emissions testing appointment in advance, but if you cannot do that, it’s good to know the schedule and the time it takes to take the emissions test. If you can, avoid going for a test at the beginning and the end of the month, or on Saturdays. These are the busiest times for most emissions testing locations in Illinois. It should be easy to schedule a timely visit to emissions testing center of your choice since you’ll have four months to take your vehicle in for the test prior to the registration expiry. The wait times can also vary depending on the location. Wait time for emissions testing in Swansea area is usually around one, while for some locations, like Markham emissions testing center, the wait time can be nine. Check all the available information at your disposal, so that you don’t have to waste time waiting in line at the emissions testing location.

Shorten the wait time for others

Chicago Emissions Testing

You can help shorten the emissions test wait times for other motorists if you come prepared for the testing. This, of course, means preparing your car so that the test can be done quickly. You need to make sure that the car engine is warmed up properly, that the car is safe to operate and that there is nothing obstructing the access to the DLC unit of your car. You can also read some tips that may help you pass the emissions testing safely.

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