Do I Need an Inspection To Renew My Tags in Colorado?
Yes, emissions testing is required to renew vehicle tags in Colorado for vehicles registered in designated counties. Colorado law requires periodic emissions inspections for vehicles in specific geographic areas to reduce air pollution. The state does not mandate safety inspections for passenger vehicles as part of the tag renewal process.
Emissions testing applies to vehicles registered in Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson counties, as well as portions of Adams, Arapahoe, Larimer, and Weld counties. Testing frequency depends on vehicle age and model year. Gasoline-powered vehicles model year 1982 and newer require testing every two years once they reach seven model years old, while 1981 and older models without collector plates require annual testing.
Vehicle registration renewal notices indicate whether emissions testing is required. Colorado issues a registration sticker that must be affixed to the bottom corner of the rear license plate following successful renewal.
Exemptions and Special Circumstances
Certain vehicles are exempt from emissions testing requirements under Colorado regulations.
- Vehicles less than seven model years old
- Electric vehicles, horseless carriages, kit cars, and street rods
- Gasoline-powered vehicles model year 1975 and older with collector plates
- Vehicles registered as collector's items before September 1, 2009, that have maintained continuous registration without ownership changes
Diesel-powered vehicles follow different testing schedules and requirements than gasoline-powered vehicles.
Contact Information for Tag Services
Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
1351 5th Street, Suite 100, Denver, CO 80204
Phone: (303) 205-5600
Official Website: Division of Motor Vehicles
