Emissions Testing in Alabama

Who Needs an Emissions Test or Smog Check

No vehicles in Alabama are legally required to pass an emissions test. The state does not enforce smog check requirements for gasoline, diesel, hybrid, or electric vehicles. Voluntary testing is offered through the Alabama Partners for Clean Air program for residents of Jefferson and Shelby counties. Vehicle owners who want to check their emissions output or qualify for repair assistance may choose to participate.

How Often Tests Are Required

There is no mandated testing frequency in Alabama because the state does not require emissions testing. Voluntary testing can be done at any time through participating locations. Drivers who want to monitor vehicle health or access the Car Care repair program may test as often as they choose. There is no schedule tied to registration renewal.

Where Emissions Testing Is Required

Alabama does not require emissions testing in any county or city. The voluntary testing program operates only in Jefferson County and Shelby County, which make up the greater Birmingham metropolitan area. Rural and other urban areas across the state have no testing programs. Requirements do not vary by location because the state does not enforce any emissions mandate.

What Happens During the Test

During voluntary emissions testing at a participating Express Oil Change location, technicians connect to the vehicle's OBD-II diagnostic port to read system codes and readiness monitors. They check for a lit check engine light and inspect emissions components visually. Vehicles from 1996 and newer use the OBD-II scan as the primary diagnostic. If the vehicle fails, the owner receives a report explaining the issues but is not obligated to make repairs since testing is voluntary.

Areas in Alabama That Require Emissions Testing

No areas in Alabama require emissions testing. The state does not have designated air quality zones or nonattainment areas that mandate vehicle inspections. Voluntary testing is concentrated in the Birmingham metro area, specifically in Jefferson County and Shelby County, where Express Oil Change partners with Alabama Partners for Clean Air. Cities such as Birmingham, Hoover, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, and Alabaster fall within this program area. Outside this region, cities like Mobile, Montgomery, Huntsville, and Tuscaloosa have no formal testing programs. Emissions testing locations in Alabama are limited to these voluntary sites in the Birmingham area.

How the Emissions Test Works in Alabama

Voluntary emissions testing in Alabama takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Drivers visit a participating Express Oil Change location in Jefferson or Shelby County. Bring your vehicle registration and driver's license. A technician plugs into the OBD-II port to scan for diagnostic trouble codes and check readiness monitors. They also inspect emissions equipment visually. If the check engine light is on, the vehicle will not pass. Common failure reasons include incomplete readiness monitors, faulty oxygen sensors, or catalytic converter issues. Testing is free through the partnership program. If your vehicle fails and you qualify for the Car Care Program, you may receive assistance covering 80 percent of repair costs up to $700. Owners pay the remaining 20 percent plus any costs exceeding the cap.