What vehicles require Emissions in Georgia?

For 2023 vehicle registration, if your vehicle is a 1999 – 2020 model year gasoline-powered car or light-duty truck (8,500 pounds gross vehicle weight rating or less) registered in Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding or Rockdale County, it must be emissions tested.

The three most recent model year vehicles are exempt from emissions testing each year. For registration in 2023, this includes all 2021 and newer model year vehicles.

Additionally, vehicles that are 25 model years or older are exempt from emissions testing. This includes 1998 or older model year vehicles for 2023 registration.

Motorcycles, recreational vehicles (RVs) and motor homes do not require emissions testing for registration.

Diesel vehicles do not require emissions testing for registration.

When do I need to have my vehicle tested?

Your vehicle must be tested every year prior to its registration date (the vehicle owner's birthday). For registration in 2022, the three most recent model years are exempt from emissions testing, which includes 2020 or newer model year vehicles.

Vehicles 25 model years old or older are exempt. For registration in 2022, this includes model years 1997 or older. The registration renewal insert provides information regarding registration renewal.

Test early. GCAF recommends having your vehicle inspected four to six weeks prior to the registration renewal date. Vehicles can be tested well in advance if the owner of the vehicle will be out of the area at the time of registration. As a reminder, an emissions inspection is valid for 12 months or one registration renewal, by the same owner. GCAF recommends contacting your tag office to determine if they will allow a registration renewal prior to the normal renewal period (more than 60 days prior to the motorist's registration renewal date, which is the owner's birthday).

How much does an Emissions Inspection cost?

Our emissions inspection is $25. We do offer a $5 discount to veterans, active duty military, police, firefighters, and educators. We also have a multi-car discount (ask your inspector for more information)

How early can I have my vehicle inspected?

GCAF recommends having your vehicle inspected four to six weeks prior to the registration renewal date. Vehicles can be tested well in advance if the owner of the vehicle will be out of the area at the time of registration.

We recommend testing 1-3 months before your registration renewal date.

As a reminder, an emissions inspection is valid for 12 months or one registration renewal, by the same owner. GCAF recommends contacting your tag office to determine if they will allow a registration renewal prior to the normal renewal period (more than 60 days prior to the motorist's registration renewal date, which is the owner's birthday).

How long does an Emissions Inspection take?

Emission inspections take roughly 5-10 minutes to complete.