Emissions Testing in New Mexico

Testing Requirements

Current Testing Requirements in New Mexico

New Mexico operates an emissions testing program covering Bernalillo County. The program began in 1983 and is administered locally by the VPMD under the Albuquerque/Bernalillo County Air Quality Control Board. The New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division coordinates with the VPMD by checking the Air Care database during registration transactions. For vehicles model year 1996 and newer, the test includes an OBD-II diagnostic scan, a pressurized gas cap test, and a visible emissions check. For vehicles model year 1991 to 1995, the test includes a two-speed idle exhaust measurement at idle and 2,500 RPM, a gas cap test, and a tampering inspection of emissions control components. Over 130 certified Air Care stations operate throughout Bernalillo County. More than 500 active inspectors are certified by the VPMD, with annual recertification required.

Who Needs an Emissions Test

All gasoline-powered motor vehicles model year 1991 and newer weighing 10,000 pounds or less that are registered in or commute into Bernalillo County for 60 or more days per year must pass an emissions test. Gas-electric hybrid vehicles are also required to test. An emissions test is required at each biennial registration renewal and at any change of ownership, even if the current inspection sticker has not expired. Federal installations within Bernalillo County must also comply. New vehicles purchased from a dealer or manufacturer and still in the original owner's possession are exempt for four years following initial registration. Diesel vehicles are exempt. Dedicated electric vehicles are exempt. Motorcycles, ATVs, boats, and scooters are exempt. Vehicles over 10,000 pounds are exempt. Vehicles 35 years old and older are exempt.

How Often Tests Are Required

Emissions testing is required every two years (biennial), aligned with the vehicle's registration renewal cycle. An emissions test is also required at any change of ownership. Vehicles that emit between 75% and 100% of their maximum allowable carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon levels may be required to test annually instead of biennially. Passing test results are valid for one or two years depending on the vehicle's emissions levels.

Where Emissions Testing Is Required

Emissions testing is required only in Bernalillo County. This includes the city of Albuquerque and surrounding communities within the county. Vehicles registered in all other New Mexico counties are not required to pass an emissions test. However, vehicles registered elsewhere that commute into Bernalillo County for 60 or more days per year must also comply. The New Mexico MVD checks the Air Care database during registration and will block renewal for non-compliant vehicles.

What Happens During the Test

For vehicles model year 1996 and newer, a certified Air Care inspector connects to the OBD-II port and runs a diagnostic scan checking for stored trouble codes, readiness monitor status, and the malfunction indicator lamp. A pressurized gas cap test checks for fuel system leaks. A visible emissions check confirms no smoke is coming from the tailpipe. A tampering inspection verifies the presence and connection of the catalytic converter and other emissions control components. For vehicles model year 1991 to 1995, a two-speed idle exhaust test measures hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide at idle and at 2,500 RPM. The inspection typically takes 15 to 20 minutes.

Areas in New Mexico That Require Emissions Testing

Within Bernalillo County, cities and communities where testing is required include Albuquerque, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, Tijeras, and unincorporated areas of the county. Cities outside Bernalillo County do not require emissions testing. Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho (Sandoval County), Roswell, Farmington, Clovis, Hobbs, Carlsbad, Alamogordo, Deming, Gallup, Las Vegas (NM), Los Lunas, Silver City, and Taos have no emissions testing requirements. Rio Rancho residents whose vehicles are registered in Sandoval County are exempt unless they commute into Bernalillo County for 60 or more days per year.

How the Emissions Test Works in New Mexico

Drivers take their vehicle to any of the more than 130 certified Air Care stations in Bernalillo County. These are private auto shops authorized by the VPMD. No appointment is typically needed. Bring your vehicle registration and identification. Fees are set by individual stations and must be posted on the station's official sign. Fees typically range from $15 to $25 plus tax. If the vehicle passes, the owner receives a New Mexico Emissions Certificate of Inspection, which is required for registration renewal and title transfer. If the vehicle fails, the VPMD provides one free retest within 90 days at their office at 1500 Broadway Blvd NE, Albuquerque. The VPMD can also issue time extensions for repairs. Bernalillo County offers repair cost assistance for eligible residents. The VPMD can be reached at 505-764-1110.