PA Inspections, Smog, and Emissions

Emissions from vehicles today cause an estimated 33% of Pennsylvania’s overall air pollution. Diminished air quality can mean serious health complications, especially as our children develop within the atmosphere.

In order to protect the air within the state, the PennDOT, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, along with the Department of Environmental Protection – have put in place a very comprehensive type of emissions inspection program to ensure better air quality, which you can read more about at Drive Clean PA

PA Emissions Test

There is an annually required state emissions test for PA drivers. Once you receive your vehicle registration renewal notice, you will see:

  • “Emissions Inspection Required/Diesel Vehicles Exempt”
This indicates that you must complete the inspections test before renewing registration is possible.

There are various service stations approved by PennDOT that you may take your vehicle to for testing. There are also neighborhood garages and dealerships that are approved to conduct such testing. In order to make the process more convenient, make sure to schedule your appointment with the annually required safety inspection.

Each station has a different cost for emissions testing, so make sure you call first to find out what price to expect.

Failing Emissions Testing

If your vehicle does not pass emissions testing:

  1. Find out which repairs are required to bring the vehicle up to state standards.
  2. You will have to take the costs of repairs that are required in order to get the vehicle to compliance.
  3. Retest the vehicle before your safety inspection expires.
  4. The second test is free if you bring the vehicle to the same station no more than 30 days later.
Failing a second time gives you eligibility for 1-year waiver from testing as long as you show proof that there was over $150 spent on repairs for emissions issues. Determine your options by contacting a mechanic certified to complete inspections.

 Emissions Testing Exemptions

There are various vehicles exempt from emissions testing in PA.

  • Motorbikes and qualified motorcycles
  • Registered antique vehicles
  • Registered qualified street rods
  • Registered collectible vehicles
If you need further information, contact toll free 1-800-265-0921.

Emissions Test Extensions

If you have an emissions exam out of the state, it is not valid within PA. If you leave Pennsylvania for a period of more than 30 days during the time your emissions sticker becomes expired, you are offered a 10 day grace period from the date of your return for the inspection to be completed. It is important to make sure you keep receipts from your travels, as it proves your time away.

Emissions Test Waivers

  • For a second failed inspection after $150 is spent on repairs related to the prior failing, a one-year waiver may be granted.
  • If there is a single repair cost over $150 you may be required to complete the repair before becoming eligible for the one-year waiver.
  • Waivers are not given to those who have altered, tampered, or modified the vehicle for emissions reasons.