Testing
How do I know when I need to go for my emissions test?
In most cases, you will receive an official notification letter with a generous time period before your vehicle’s test date. If you recently purchased a used vehicle that was registered in Connecticut, you will not receive a notification letter. However, it is your obligation to have your vehicle tested within 30 days of its registration date with or without a notification letter. From that point on your vehicle will be required to be tested on its scheduled due date. However, you can also find your vehicle’s test date by entering your vehicle’s identification number (usually a 17 digit number available on the vehicle’s windshield and on the Connecticut registration certificate) on our test lookup database.
Note: Certain vehicles are exempt from testing.
What do I do if I don’t receive a notification?
Even if you do not receive a notification, it is still your obligation to be sure that your vehicle is tested. You can check the website for your vehicle’s assigned test date or you can call 1-888-828-8399.
If you have moved recently, be sure to submit your change of address to DMV. You can also, check your vehicle’s test date at any time by accessing the test lookup database.
What if I lose my official notification?
If you receive your notification, but misplace it, you can still find your test date by visiting the When Do I Get Tested page on our website and following the instructions. You may request an e-mail reminder of your test due date or print the test date page and save it for future reference.
A new notification will not be mailed to you. You should bring your vehicle's registration with you to the test.
How often do I need to have my vehicle tested?
Your vehicle will need to be tested every other year on its test cycle due date. If you have recently moved, be sure that you change your address with the Department of Motor Vehicles so that your test notification will be sent to the correct address.
How long do I have once I receive my reminder notice to have my vehicle tested?
The reminder notice will arrive within a generous time period prior to the scheduled due date of your vehicle’s test. You will have 30 calendar days after the due date to have the vehicle tested to avoid incurring a late fee of $20. However, besides a $20 late fee you will be subject to law enforcement action and denial of the renewal of the vehicle's registration if you do not have the vehicle tested by the scheduled due date.
What vehicles need to be tested?
All vehicles including diesel and propane powered vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 lbs. or less. Please note that certain vehicles are exempt from emissions testing.
What if my vehicle is a hybrid?
All hybrid vehicles are required to be tested. Many will be tested with the new OBD technology.
Where do I go to have my vehicle tested?
You can get your vehicle tested at any of the Official Emissions Test Centers.
What type of test is performed?
The type of emissions test that your vehicle receives is dependent upon its model year and make. Handicapped vehicle owners may also receive an alternate test appropriate for their unique situation.
What is a Gas Cap Leak test?
Connecticut’s Emissions Test Program uses a pressurized tester to determine if your vehicle’s gas cap is leaking any fuel vapors into the atmosphere.
How to Arrange for a Test
After you are notified of your test date you can drive up to any test center or make an appointment for your test. Testing hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. To find a test center, search by zip code or view a full listing of test centers.
Some test centers only accept cash payments for emissions tests. If this is a concern, you should call the test center of your choice in advance to verify the types of payments accepted. Test Centers that only accept cash for emissions inspections must have a sign designating the Emission facility as “Cash Only” visible to the approaching motorist.
How long does the test take?
Generally the test should take no longer than 30 minutes, depending on the type of test for your vehicle. If you scheduled an appointment ahead of time and do not arrive late for your test, your test should be completed within that time. If you are late for your appointment, or are a drive-up customer, your test should begin within 20 minutes of your arrival, and be completed within 30 minutes after starting.
What do I do if I’m handicapped?
If you are a handicapped driver, you have the option of remaining in your vehicle during the emissions test. However, the inspector must operate the vehicle while the test is being performed.
Why can’t I stay in my vehicle while the test is being done?
Due to safety concerns and liability issues the testing inspector must operate the vehicle during the test. Neither you nor any animal can remain in the vehicle.
What if I miss my emissions test date?
If your vehicle is tested more than 30 days after its scheduled due date, you will be assessed a $20 Late Fee.
Note: Do not pay the $20 late fee at the test center. You will be sent a separate notice from the DMV about late fee payment or it will be added to your vehicle’s registration renewal. Failure to pay late fees when billed by DMV will also result in denial to register or re-register any vehicle in Connecticut.
What happens if my vehicle is not tested?
Your vehicle is required to be tested every other year on its test cycle due date. If you fail to have your vehicle tested your registration will be denied. Also, you may face other law enforcement action up to an including infractions and fines.
What should I receive from the Emissions inspector at the conclusion of the test?
After testing, the inspector will give you a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR). In the case of a failed test, you will also receive the following:
- An Emissions Repair Data form. The Emissions Repair Data form must be completed to qualify for a free re-test.
- A list of certified emissions repair stations
- The DMV brochure
on what to do if your vehicle fails.
Note: The VIR document should remain in your vehicle, as it will serve as proof of your emissions testing.
What if I lose my Vehicle Inspection Report?
If you lose your Vehicle Inspection Report, you can get a free replacement by going to the original test center where your test was done and requesting a copy.
Note: You have one year from the date of your test to get a copy of your report.
Why don’t I get an emissions sticker any more?
Connecticut’s Emissions Testing Program uses registration-based compliance and electronically stores test information. A copy of the Vehicle Inspection Report should be kept in your vehicle at all times.
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