Does Colorado Have Emissions Testing?
Colorado maintains a comprehensive vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance program in the Denver metropolitan area and the North Front Range to improve air quality and comply with federal clean air standards. The program has been protecting Colorado's air quality since 1981, with the current inspection system operational since 1995. Unlike many states, Colorado requires periodic emissions testing based on vehicle age and type, with significant program modernizations scheduled for 2026.
Understanding Colorado Emissions Testing Requirements
The state's emissions testing program operates under the authority of Colorado Revised Statutes Sections 42-4-306 and 42-4-310, which grant the Air Quality Control Commission regulatory authority over vehicle inspection programs. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and the Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles jointly administer the program.
The program is governed by two key regulations:
- Regulation Number 11: Motor Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program for gasoline-powered vehicles (most recently amended January 16, 2025, effective March 17, 2025)
- Regulation Number 12: Reduction of Diesel Vehicle Emissions (updated January 16, 2025 with stricter opacity standards)
Which Counties in Colorado Require Emissions Testing?
The vehicle emissions inspection requirement applies to vehicles registered in 9 counties across the Front Range region:
Metro Denver Area (Full County Coverage)
- Boulder County
- Broomfield County
- Denver County
- Douglas County
- Jefferson County
Front Range Area (Partial County Coverage)
- Adams County (portions)
- Arapahoe County (portions)
- Larimer County (designated areas)
- Weld County (designated areas)
Diesel Vehicles: Testing requirements extend to portions of El Paso County (including some areas around Colorado Springs) for diesel-powered vehicles only. Gasoline vehicles in El Paso County are not subject to emissions testing.
Residents in partial-coverage counties should verify their specific address requirements with their county motor vehicle office, as geographic boundaries can be complex.
Commuter Provision
If you reside outside the nine-county program area but commute into the area 90 days or more each year for employment or school, an emissions inspection may be required. Contact the Colorado Department of Revenue Emissions Team at (303) 205-5603 to determine your specific requirements.
Vehicles Subject to Emissions Testing in Colorado
Under current Colorado emissions inspection regulations, gasoline-powered and hybrid vehicles more than seven model years old must pass periodic emissions inspections. Diesel vehicles follow different age-based requirements.
Gasoline and Hybrid Vehicle Age Requirements
The emissions testing requirement begins when a vehicle reaches its eighth model year and continues throughout its operational life:
- Model years 2025-2020: Exempt from testing
- Model year 2019: Exempt for renewals; required for ownership transfers
- Model years 2018-1994: Testing required every two years
- Model years 1993-1982: Testing required biennially or annually, depending on collector plate status
- Model years 1981 and older: Annual testing required (except those with collector plates or 1975 and older)
Seven-Year Exemption Rule: Vehicles model year 1982 and newer are exempt from emissions testing for the first seven model years. For example, a 2025 model year vehicle is exempt until 2032. New vehicles purchased from dealers with a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO) receive the full seven-year exemption.
Diesel Vehicle Age Requirements
Diesel vehicles follow a four-year exemption period:
Light-Duty Diesel (GVWR up to 26,000 lbs.)
- Model years 2025-2023: Exempt from testing
- Model year 2022: Exempt for renewals; required for ownership transfers
- Model years 2021-2016: Testing required every two years
- Model years 2015-1993: Annual testing required
Heavy-Duty Diesel (GVWR 26,000 lbs. or more)
- Model years 2025-2021: Exempt from testing
- Model year 2020: Exempt for renewals; required for ownership transfers
- Model years 2019-2016: Testing required every two years
- Model years 2015-1994: Annual testing required
Vehicles Exempt From Emissions Testing
The following vehicle categories do not require emissions inspections in Colorado:
- All-electric vehicles (EVs)
- Vehicles within the seven-year exemption period (gasoline/hybrid) or four-year period (diesel)
- Horseless carriages
- Kit cars
- Street rods
- Vehicles with Collector Plates (1975 and older)
- Grandfathered collector vehicles (registered as "collector's item" prior to September 1, 2009)
- New motor vehicles owned by government entities
Emissions Testing Costs and Fees in Colorado
According to the Colorado Department of Revenue, the current fees for emissions inspections are:
| Vehicle Type | Inspection Fee |
|---|---|
| Gasoline vehicles (1982 and newer) | $25.00 biennial |
| Gasoline vehicles (1981 and older) | $15.00 annual |
| VIN Verification | $25.00 |
| Diesel vehicles | Varies by testing center |
State law requires a $1.50 Emissions-Area Air Account Fee for all vehicle registrations (Class A, B, and C) in emissions counties, collected during registration renewal, regardless of whether the vehicle requires an emissions test.
Anticipated Fee Changes (2026)
Senate Bill 25-321, signed into law in 2025, authorizes the Colorado Air Quality Control Commission to increase emissions testing fees to support program modernization:
| Inspection Type | Current Maximum | Potential New Maximum (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Program (Clean Screen) | $25.00 | Up to $50.00 |
| Enhanced Program | $15.00 | Up to $30.00 |
The commission will determine final fee amounts, with implementation expected to support 2026 program enhancements, including 24/7 self-service kiosks.
Where to Get Emissions Testing in Colorado
Colorado maintains a network of 18 state-operated testing stations and numerous independent certified facilities throughout emission counties. Vehicle owners can locate authorized facilities using the Air Care Colorado Interactive Map, which displays real-time wait times.
Air Care Colorado Testing Stations
State-operated Air Care Colorado facilities are open:
- Monday through Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Closed: Sundays and state holidays
For general questions, call the Air Care Colorado 24-hour hotline at (303) 456-7090.
Independent Licensed Testing Stations
Vehicles requiring two-speed idle tests (1981 and older gasoline models) can be tested at independent licensed facilities in addition to Air Care Colorado stations.
Diesel Testing Facilities
Diesel emissions testing is conducted at specialized facilities separate from gasoline testing stations. For a complete list of licensed diesel emissions testing stations, contact:
- Colorado Department of Revenue DMV Emissions Team: (303) 205-5603
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment: (303) 744-2522
RapidScreen Remote Sensing Alternative
Colorado offers an innovative alternative testing method called RapidScreen, which uses remote sensing technology to measure vehicle emissions as vehicles drive past roadside monitors. Clean-running vehicles that record two passing readings within 14 months automatically receive emissions certification without visiting a testing facility. Current RapidScreen locations are available at Air Care Colorado RapidScreen Locations.
Recognized Emissions Repair Facilities
If a vehicle fails its emissions inspection, owners should seek qualified repair shops. While Colorado does not maintain an official list of certified emissions repair facilities, the state-operated emissions technical centers can guide common failure causes and repair recommendations.
For vehicles that fail despite proper repairs, Colorado offers a repair waiver program requiring:
- Failed emissions test no older than six months
- Minimum $715 in emissions-related repairs within the last six months
- Second failed test verifying repairs did not achieve compliance
- Visual inspection confirming all emission control components are present
Apply for waivers at myDMV Colorado under Vehicle Services or contact the DMV Emissions Team at (303) 205-5603.
Inspection Timing and Vehicle Registration in Colorado
Under the registration-based enforcement system, vehicles must pass the required emissions inspection before registration renewal. The Colorado Department of Revenue verifies inspection compliance through the integrated testing database.
Vehicle owners may complete their emissions inspection:
- For regular renewals: Within the two-year testing cycle as indicated on the registration renewal notice
- For ownership transfers: Required even if the vehicle is within the exemption period during the final 12 months of the exemption
- Grace period: 30 days after registration expiration to complete testing and renewal
Important Timing Note
State regulation requires testing stations to test all vehicles presented for testing. Before visiting an Air Care Colorado station, verify your vehicle is due for testing by checking your registration renewal notice or calling the State Emissions Program at (303) 205-5603.
Out-of-State Vehicle Provisions
New Colorado Residents: Vehicles from other states must obtain emissions testing if not within the exemption period. The seven-year (gasoline) or four-year (diesel) exemption transfers to new residents. Complete information is available on the Colorado DMV Out-of-State Titles page.
Temporary Out-of-State Locations: Vehicles temporarily located outside Colorado at registration renewal may receive conditional registration approval by submitting:
- Emissions Extension Form DR 2376
- Proof of passing emissions test where vehicle is currently located (or VIN verification)
- Copy of current insurance
Apply online through Boulder County Emissions Extension or by mail to your county motor vehicle office. Vehicles must be emissions tested within 15 days upon returning to Colorado.
Online Registration Services in Colorado
For vehicles compliant with emissions requirements or exempt, registration renewal can be completed online at myDMV Colorado. The state provides a convenient guide for renewing your vehicle registration online.
The online system automatically verifies emissions testing compliance, proof of insurance, and outstanding fees.
Contact Information
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Air Pollution Control Division
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver, CO 80246
Phone: (303) 692-2000
Official Website: Air Pollution Control Division
Colorado Department of Revenue - Division of Motor Vehicles
Division of Motor Vehicles
1351 5th St., Suite 100, Denver, Colorado 80204
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 173350, Denver, Colorado 80217-3350
Phone: (303) 205-5600
Emissions Team Direct: (303) 205-5603
Official Website: Colorado DMV Emissions
