State of Wisconsin Emissions Testing: Everything You Need to Know

Are you a Wisconsin resident wondering if your vehicle needs an emissions test?

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the ins and outs of Wisconsin's emissions testing program, including:

• Which vehicles are subject to testing?
• Where and how to get your vehicle tested
• The cost of emissions testing
• What to expect during the test
• What to do if your vehicle fails the test

Who Needs an Emissions Test in Wisconsin?

Emissions testing is required for all gasoline-powered vehicles registered in Wisconsin that are:

• Less than 25 years old
• Model year 1996 or newer
• Registered in certain counties

The following counties are currently included in the emissions testing program:

• Brown
• Calumet
• Douglas
• Dunn
• Eau Claire
• Fond du Lac
• Green Bay
• Jefferson
• Kenosha
• Kewaunee
• La Crosse
• Manitowoc
• Marathon
• Milwaukee
• Outagamie
• Ozaukee
• Portage
• Racine
• Rock
• Sheboygan
• Washington
• Waukesha
• Winnebago

Where and How to Get Your Vehicle Tested

Emissions testing is conducted at authorized emissions testing stations throughout Wisconsin. To find a station near you, visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website at https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/vehicleregistration/Emissions.html.

When you arrive at the testing station, you'll need to provide the following:

• Your vehicle's registration certificate
• Your driver's license
• Payment for the test

The test itself typically takes around 15 minutes. During the test, a technician will connect a computer to your vehicle's diagnostic port and run a series of tests to measure your vehicle's emissions.

Cost of Emissions Testing

The cost of emissions testing in Wisconsin varies depending on the station you visit. However, the average cost is around $20.

What to Expect During the Test

During the emissions test, the technician will:

• Check your vehicle's registration and driver's license
• Connect a computer to your vehicle's diagnostic port
• Run a series of tests to measure your vehicle's emissions
• Provide you with a printout of the test results

What to Do If Your Vehicle Fails the Test

If your vehicle fails the emissions test, you'll have 30 days to get it repaired and retested. You can find a list of authorized repair facilities on the DNR website.

Once your vehicle has been repaired, you'll need to take it back to an emissions testing station for a retest. There is no additional charge for the retest.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Why is emissions testing required?

A: Emissions testing helps to ensure that vehicles are operating within acceptable emissions limits, which helps to improve air quality.

• Q: How often do I need to get my vehicle tested?

A: Emissions testing is required every two years for vehicles that are subject to the program.

• Q: What happens if I don't get my vehicle tested?

A: If you don't get your vehicle tested when it's due, you may be fined. The fine for failing to get your vehicle tested is $120.

• Q: Can I get an exemption from emissions testing?

A: Yes, there are a few exemptions from emissions testing. For example, vehicles that are more than 25 years old or that are used exclusively for off-road purposes are exempt from testing.

For more information about Wisconsin's emissions testing program, please visit the DNR website at https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/vehicleregistration/Emissions.html.