Although you can't see it, ozone pollution is a reality in Connecticut and across the United States. Since cars and light duty trucks contribute to the problem, their emissions control systems must be checked over time to ensure they are working properly to control the pollutants they emit.

To manage the Connecticut Emissions Program, the State of Connecticut has combined the resources of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and Opus Inspection. The DMV provides oversight of the emissions program, while Opus Inspection manages testing, equipment, service, inspector training, and motorist relations.

Emissions testing helps identify pollution control devices that are malfunctioning and when fuel is being wasted. Detecting and repairing these problems can save on future repairs and reduces air pollution.

The State of Connecticut requires testing on most vehicles.

The following vehicles are exempt from the Connecticut Emissions Program:

• Vehicles younger than four model-years old;
• Model year 1999 and older vehicles;
• Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,001 pounds or more;
• Composite Vehicles (vehicle must be titled as a composite vehicle);
• Full electric-powered (non-hybrid);
• Bicycles with motors attached;
• Motorcycles;
• Certain vehicles registered but not designed primarily for highway use;
• Farm vehicles;
• Diesel-Powered Type II School Buses; (under 10,000 lbs GVWR)
• Vehicles with Dealer, Repairer, or Transporter Plates (only for the purpose of transportation during wholesale or auction).

The test fee is $20.00. 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. Please call your test center before your visit to confirm accepted forms of payment.

State Law Requires the DMV to issue a late fee per Connecticut General Statutes, Title 14 Sec. 14-164c(k)(1).

The commissioner shall assess a late fee of 20.00 dollars against the owner of a motor vehicle that has not presented such motor vehicle for an emissions inspection within thirty days following the expiration date of the assigned inspection period, or that has not presented such motor vehicle for a reinspection within sixty days following a test failure, or both.

You will receive an official notification postcard at least 45 days in advance of your vehicle inspection due date. Please ensure DMV has your current address on file. You can also visit ctemissions.com and enter your VIN to find your test due date and request an email reminder.

Testing is available through a network of privately owned automotive service facilities conveniently located throughout Connecticut. A list of certified facilities can be found at ctemissions.com. Each facility has an exterior sign with its official test center number and provides designated parking and a waiting area.

You may either make an appointment for a test or drive up to any test center you choose. Not all test centers offer advance appointments. There are two types of participating centers:

• Full-Service Test Centers can perform emissions testing on all eligible vehicles regardless of fuel type or model year.
• OBD Plus Test Centers can perform all emissions testing except on those diesel-powered vehicles from model year 1996 or older.

The type of emissions test performed on each vehicle is determined by one or more of the following: make, model year, fuel type, and driveline configuration.

The emissions test types are:

• On-Board Diagnostic (OBD)
• Pre-Conditioned Two-Speed Idle (PC TSI)
• Opacity
• Gas Cap Pressure Leak Test

As a Connecticut motorist, you have specific rights, referred to as the Emissions Testing Bill of Rights, which will be prominently displayed at all emissions test centers. Please click here to view the Emissions Testing Bill of Rights.

The DMV and Opus have created a sophisticated testing system and taken several steps to detect instances of fraud in the emissions test program and to protect you from fraudulent activities.