Brian Barton
The State of Illinois requires vehicle owners to get their cars tested for emissions to improve air quality and public health. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees the Vehicle Emissions Testing Program, which was established in 1990 when the US government implemented the Federal Clean Air Act. The Illinois Air Team website provides information on testing locations and wait times. The test notice will state when your vehicle must be tested, and you can also check if your vehicle is due for a test online. If your vehicle fails the test, you must have it repaired and retested.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Organization | Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) |
| Goal | To improve Illinois' overall air quality and public health |
| Requirements | Vehicles must be registered in Illinois and be over 4 years old |
| Exemptions | Diesel trucks, electric vehicles, motorcycles, antique vehicles (model year before 1967), vehicles used exclusively for sporting events or parades, vehicles registered outside of Illinois |
| Test Locations | Chicago, Will County, Cook County, DuPage County, Lake County |
| Test Types | Gas Cap Test, ODBII system check, smog inspection |
| Test Frequency | Every 2 years |
| Test Cost | Not specified, but not passing may result in a fine of over $300 |
| Test Preparation | Ensure the "Check Engine" light is not on |
| Test Failure Procedure | Get the vehicle repaired by a state-certified technician and retested |
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What You'll Learn
Illinois EPA's vehicle emissions inspection program
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) enforces its vehicle emissions inspection program to improve air quality and public health in the state. The program is required by the federal Clean Air Act, which mandates vehicle emissions inspection programs in large, urbanized areas that do not meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for ozone. Despite Illinois's efforts to improve air quality, the Chicago and Metro-East St. Louis areas still exceed the ozone NAAQS. Additionally, the Illinois Vehicle Emissions Inspection Law of 2005 mandates a vehicle emissions inspection program to reduce air pollution from motor vehicles in these regions.
The Illinois EPA's vehicle emissions inspection program is operated by a contractor, and the agency enforces the requirement by partnering with the Illinois Secretary of State's Office to deny vehicle license plate registrations to non-complying vehicles. The program has expanded to include a high-capacity location and several smaller inspection and test sites in Chicago, as well as mobile testing units and self-service kiosks. The Illinois Air Team website provides information on the locations and wait times for emissions testing.
The Illinois Vehicle Emissions Testing Program began in 1990 when the federal government implemented the Clean Air Act. The law requires state and local municipalities that do not meet the pollution-level requirements to implement vehicle emissions testing. This regulation primarily impacts vehicle owners in large metropolitan areas that do not meet federal air quality standards. The goal of Illinois's Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) program is to identify vehicles emitting excessive pollutants and ensure they undergo necessary emissions-related mechanical repairs to improve the state's overall air quality.
Most 1996 and newer gasoline-powered passenger vehicles are subject to emissions inspections after they are four years old. The inspection month corresponds with the expiration date of the vehicle license plate, with even-year model vehicles inspected during even years and odd-year models inspected during odd years. Vehicles older than 1995 are required to undergo a gas cap test to ensure proper sealing. Additionally, vehicles with a "Check Engine" light on will not pass the emissions test.
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Vehicle Inspection Report and Certificate
The Illinois EPA's vehicle emissions inspection program helps improve air quality and protect public health in Illinois. The federal Clean Air Act and the Illinois Vehicle Emissions Inspection Law of 2005 require this program to reduce air pollution from motor vehicles in areas that do not meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for ozone.
The Illinois EPA, in collaboration with the Illinois Secretary of State's Office, enforces the vehicle emissions inspection requirement. They deny vehicle license plate registrations to non-complying vehicles. The program is expanding with more inspection and test sites, mobile testing units, and self-service kiosks to accommodate a larger number of vehicles.
To find a test station in Illinois, visit the Illinois Air Team website or www.ilairteam.com. Alternatively, you can call the Air Team Call Center at 844-258-9071 for more information.
When you take your vehicle for emissions testing, you will receive a detailed report and certificate upon completion. Here's what you can expect:
- Vehicle Information: The report will include basic information about your vehicle, such as the make, model, year, vehicle identification number (VIN), and license plate number. This section helps identify the specific vehicle being inspected.
- Test Results: The core of the inspection report will present the results of the emissions test. It will show the levels of various pollutants measured during the test, such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. These results will indicate whether your vehicle meets the emissions standards set by the EPA.
- Test Date and Location: Details regarding the date and location of the inspection will be included. This information is important for record-keeping and can be used as a reference for future inspections.
- Pass or Fail Status: The report will clearly indicate whether your vehicle has passed or failed the emissions test. If your vehicle fails, the report may provide specific reasons for the failure, such as excessive emissions levels or malfunctioning emission control systems.
- Inspection Certificate: If your vehicle passes the emissions test, you will receive a certificate as proof of compliance. This certificate is often required for vehicle registration or renewal. It may include the inspection date, the vehicle information, and the signature or stamp of the authorized inspector or testing facility.
- Recommendations and Next Steps: In case of a failed inspection, the report may offer recommendations or instructions on what to do next. This could include repairing or replacing specific vehicle components, retesting after making necessary repairs, or providing information on waivers or exemptions if applicable.
Remember to keep the vehicle inspection report and certificate in a safe place. You may need to present them during vehicle registration or renewal processes, or if you plan to sell your vehicle. These documents provide valuable information about your vehicle's emissions status and demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a clean and environmentally friendly vehicle.
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Gas Cap Test
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) is responsible for the state's vehicle emissions inspection program, which plays a crucial role in improving air quality and public health. The Federal Clean Air Act and the Illinois Vehicle Emissions Inspection Law of 2005 mandate this program to reduce air pollution from motor vehicles, particularly in Chicago and Metro-East St. Louis, where pollution levels remain a concern.
As part of the inspection process, the Illinois Air Care Team requires a Gas Cap Test on all vehicles older than 1995 to ensure their gas caps seal properly. This test is essential because a loose or faulty gas cap can lead to evaporative emissions, contributing to air pollution and reducing fuel efficiency.
During the Gas Cap Test, technicians will visually inspect the gas cap to ensure it is tight and properly secured. They will also check for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks, which could compromise the seal. If the gas cap is not functioning correctly, it will need to be replaced with a suitable replacement, and the vehicle may need to be retested.
Illinois-registered vehicles manufactured in 1996 or later are equipped with an On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system, which includes an On-Board Diagnostic II (OBDII) component that can automatically check the gas cap's functionality. This advanced technology monitors the vehicle's emissions control systems and alerts the driver to any issues via the "Check Engine" light. Repairs or replacements made by state-certified repair technicians are required to meet Illinois' repair standards.
To ensure your vehicle passes the Gas Cap Test, it is essential to maintain your gas cap by regularly checking that it is tight and clean. Additionally, keeping up with routine vehicle maintenance, such as oil changes and tire pressure checks, can help identify and address any potential issues that may impact emissions. By following these simple steps, you can help improve Illinois' air quality and contribute to a healthier environment for all residents.
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Test notice
If your vehicle is registered in Illinois and is over four years old, you must take an emissions test. You will receive a test notice that tells you what to do. Your test notice will state when and where you must take the test. Testing stations are located all over Illinois. You can find the testing station closest to you and view wait times on the Illinois Air Team website or by calling the Air Team Call Center at 844-258-9071.
Your vehicle is subject to mandatory smog checks if you live in Cook, DuPage, or Lake County. Other counties have some zip codes that are excluded. You can check if your zip code is excluded from this law on the Illinois Air Team website.
If your vehicle fails its emissions test, you must have it repaired and retested. The Illinois EPA recommends choosing a Recognized Repair Technician to ensure your vehicle meets the state's repair standards. If your vehicle still fails the test after repairs, you may be eligible for a Repair Waiver.
Please note that motorcycles, antique vehicles (model year before 1967), diesel trucks, and completely electric vehicles are exempt from emissions testing. Vehicles registered outside of Illinois are also exempt.
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Test exemptions
In Illinois, vehicles are required to complete an emissions test every 2 years, starting when they are 4 model years old. However, certain vehicles and zip codes are exempt from testing.
Vehicles that are exempt from emissions testing in Illinois include:
- Diesel-powered vehicles
- Electric vehicles
- Motorcycles
- Antique vehicles (model year before 1967 or as defined by 326 IAC 13-1.1-1)
- Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 14,000 lbs
- Motor-driven cycles
- Vehicles registered outside of Illinois
- Vehicles used exclusively for sporting events or parades
- Vehicles located and primarily used outside of the Illinois vehicle emissions testing area
Additionally, some vehicles may be temporarily exempt if they are brought in for testing too soon, or if the wrong vehicle is brought in. Also, if a vehicle fails its initial test and any retests, and the necessary repairs have been made by a Recognized Repair Technician, the vehicle may be eligible for a waiver.
It is important to note that even if a vehicle is exempt from emissions testing, it may still be subject to other requirements, such as the gas cap test for vehicles older than 1995.
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Frequently asked questions
You can check your car for pollution at a testing station. These are located all over Illinois. Find the testing station closest to you and view wait times.
If you live in Cook, DuPage, or Lake County, you must have your car tested. If you live in a different county, you may not have to. Check to see if your zip code is excluded from this law. Your car is due for a test if it is more than 4 years old and gas-powered.
If your vehicle fails its Illinois emissions check, you must have it repaired and retested. The Illinois EPA recommends choosing a Recognized Repair Technician for the best results.
If you don’t get your car checked for pollution in Illinois, you may be fined over $300. You also cannot renew your car’s registration.
The goal of Illinois’s Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) program is to identify vehicles emitting too many pollutants and get their emissions-related mechanical issues repaired. This is to improve Illinois’s overall air quality and public health.
