Emissions Testing in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania requires an annual safety inspection for all registered vehicles statewide. In 25 designated counties, vehicles must also pass an annual emissions inspection. The program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) through the Drive Clean Pennsylvania program. The emissions inspection applies to gasoline-powered vehicles model year 1975 and newer under 9,000 pounds registered in the designated counties. Vehicles in the current model year plus five most recent model years are exempt from the emissions portion. Diesel vehicles are exempt from emissions testing. Inspections are performed at licensed private inspection stations. Vehicles registered in the remaining 42 counties need only the annual safety inspection. Drivers should confirm current requirements with PennDOT at pa.gov/dmv or the DEP at drivecleanpa.state.pa.us.
1,284
Testing stations
30 stations
26 stations
23 stations
15 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
3 stations
1 station
7 stations
4 stations
1 station
1 station
4 stations
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
3 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
5 stations
1 station
2 stations
3 stations
1 station
10 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
7 stations
6 stations
1 station
4 stations
2 stations
1 station
3 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
2 stations
2 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
3 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
11 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
9 stations
4 stations
1 station
1 station
3 stations
6 stations
4 stations
3 stations
2 stations
1 station
1 station
3 stations
1 station
3 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
5 stations
3 stations
1 station
4 stations
2 stations
2 stations
3 stations
1 station
2 stations
3 stations
2 stations
2 stations
3 stations
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
5 stations
1 station
4 stations
1 station
6 stations
3 stations
3 stations
9 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
2 stations
2 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
7 stations
13 stations
3 stations
1 station
1 station
3 stations
3 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
4 stations
5 stations
1 station
7 stations
11 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
5 stations
9 stations
3 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
4 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
4 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
3 stations
3 stations
3 stations
2 stations
6 stations
3 stations
5 stations
9 stations
2 stations
3 stations
2 stations
3 stations
3 stations
1 station
7 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
4 stations
6 stations
6 stations
1 station
3 stations
6 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
5 stations
1 station
4 stations
3 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
4 stations
2 stations
2 stations
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
4 stations
1 station
1 station
9 stations
4 stations
1 station
5 stations
5 stations
3 stations
3 stations
1 station
1 station
4 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
8 stations
1 station
2 stations
2 stations
7 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
11 stations
2 stations
1 station
4 stations
2 stations
2 stations
2 stations
2 stations
2 stations
2 stations
1 station
1 station
9 stations
1 station
4 stations
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
4 stations
4 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
9 stations
4 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
3 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
3 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
8 stations
1 station
1 station
3 stations
1 station
2 stations
3 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
5 stations
1 station
5 stations
5 stations
2 stations
2 stations
1 station
3 stations
7 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
3 stations
5 stations
2 stations
3 stations
4 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
3 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
6 stations
7 stations
2 stations
3 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
2 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
4 stations
1 station
3 stations
3 stations
1 station
6 stations
1 station
3 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
2 stations
1 station
2 stations
6 stations
2 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
8 stations
3 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
4 stations
12 stations
4 stations
8 stations
1 station
9 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
3 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
8 stations
2 stations
2 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
4 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
3 stations
1 station
4 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
6 stations
3 stations
4 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
5 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
3 stations
2 stations
1 station
4 stations
2 stations
2 stations
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
3 stations
1 station
1 station
9 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
4 stations
1 station
1 station
4 stations
1 station
1 station
2 stations
2 stations
4 stations
2 stations
3 stations
12 stations
2 stations
1 station
5 stations
2 stations
8 stations
4 stations
5 stations
5 stations
4 stations
5 stations
2 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
1 station
2 stations
1 station
13 stations
1 station
1 station
1 station
Testing Requirements
Current Testing Requirements in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania operates a statewide annual safety inspection program for all registered vehicles. In 25 counties, an emissions inspection is also required under the Drive Clean Pennsylvania program. PennDOT and the DEP jointly administer the emissions program. Inspections are performed at licensed private stations, which set their own fees. The emissions test for 1996 and newer gasoline vehicles is an OBD-II diagnostic scan. For pre-1996 gasoline vehicles still in the program, a tailpipe test using an acceleration simulation mode (ASM) on a dynamometer may be performed. A visual tampering check confirms the presence and connection of emissions control components including the catalytic converter, PCV system, EGR system, and evaporative emission controls. The safety inspection covers brakes, tires, lights, steering, suspension, windshield, wipers, mirrors, horn, seat belts, exhaust system, frame integrity, and rust damage.
Who Needs a Vehicle Inspection
All registered motor vehicles in Pennsylvania must pass an annual safety inspection. In the 25 emissions counties, gasoline-powered vehicles model year 1975 and newer with a GVWR under 9,000 pounds must also pass the emissions inspection. Vehicles in the current model year plus five most recent model years are exempt from emissions. Diesel vehicles are exempt from emissions testing in all counties. Electric vehicles are exempt from emissions but require the safety inspection. Vehicles with antique registration plates are exempt from both safety and emissions inspections. Vehicles with classic or collectible plates are still subject to inspection. Trailers over 3,000 pounds and motorcycles require annual safety inspections statewide.
How Often Tests Are Required
Both the safety and emissions inspections are required annually. The inspection sticker expires on the last day of the month shown on it. PennDOT mails testing notices indicating when the emissions test must be completed. Emissions tests can be completed up to 60 days before the testing deadline. An inspection is also required at initial registration and when a vehicle is transferred from out of state. New residents have 10 days after establishing residency to get their vehicle inspected. If the emissions certificate expires within 90 days before a safety inspection, the emissions test must be completed first.
Where Emissions Testing Is Required
Emissions testing is required in 25 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties, organized into regions. The Philadelphia region includes Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties. The Pittsburgh region includes Allegheny, Beaver, Washington, and Westmoreland counties. The South Central region includes Berks, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Northampton, and York counties. The Northern region includes Blair, Cambria, Centre, Erie, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Lycoming, and Mercer counties. The remaining 42 counties require only the annual safety inspection without an emissions component.
What Happens During the Test
The safety inspection covers brakes (service and parking), tires, lights, turn signals, steering, suspension, windshield, wipers, mirrors, horn, seat belts, exhaust system, fuel system, and frame and body condition. Significant rust or frame damage must be repaired before the vehicle can pass. In the 25 emissions counties, the emissions portion adds an OBD-II scan for 1996 and newer vehicles checking for diagnostic trouble codes, readiness monitors, and the check engine light. A visual tampering inspection confirms the presence and connection of the catalytic converter, PCV system, EGR system, air injection system, and evaporative emission controls. A lit check engine light causes failure. The combined inspection typically takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the vehicle and station workload.
Areas in Pennsylvania That Require Emissions Testing
Within the 25 emissions counties, major cities where the combined inspection is required include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Reading, Erie, Scranton, Bethlehem, Lancaster, Harrisburg, York, Wilkes-Barre, Chester, State College, Easton, Lebanon, Norristown, Johnstown, Altoona, West Chester, and Carlisle. Cities in the remaining 42 counties require only the safety inspection. These include Williamsport (outside the emissions portion of Lycoming County), Meadville, Oil City, Indiana, Chambersburg, Gettysburg, Lewisburg, Lock Haven, and all rural communities in non-emissions counties.
How the Vehicle Inspection Works in Pennsylvania
Drivers take their vehicle to any licensed private inspection station. Pennsylvania has thousands of licensed stations across the state. No appointment is needed at most stations. Bring your vehicle registration and testing notice (if received). Fees are set by individual stations and are not state-regulated. Safety inspections typically cost $35 to $50. Emissions inspections in designated counties typically cost an additional $38 to $45. Emissions test results are valid for one year. If the vehicle passes both inspections, it receives a valid inspection sticker for one year. If it fails, one free reinspection is available within 30 days of the original test. A repair cost waiver may be available for vehicles that fail the emissions reinspection after spending at least $150 on qualifying emissions-related repairs. The waiver is valid for one year and is issued by the emissions inspection station. Vehicles out of state for more than 30 days after their sticker expires have 10 days after returning to Pennsylvania to get inspected.
FAQ
Common questions
Have a question not covered here? Contact us and we will respond within one business day.
Does Pennsylvania require emissions testing?
Does Pennsylvania require emissions testing?
Yes, in 25 of the state's 67 counties. All Pennsylvania vehicles require an annual safety inspection statewide. In the designated emissions counties, gasoline vehicles must also pass an annual emissions inspection. The remaining 42 counties require only the safety inspection.
Which vehicles need an emissions test in Pennsylvania?
Which vehicles need an emissions test in Pennsylvania?
Gasoline-powered vehicles model year 1975 and newer under 9,000 pounds registered in the 25 emissions counties. Vehicles in the current model year plus five most recent model years are exempt. Diesel vehicles, electric vehicles, and vehicles with antique plates are exempt from emissions. All vehicles (except antique-plated) must pass the annual safety inspection statewide.
How often do I need an emissions test in Pennsylvania?
How often do I need an emissions test in Pennsylvania?
Every year. The emissions inspection is annual, performed alongside the safety inspection at licensed private stations. PennDOT mails testing notices before the due date.
Which areas in Pennsylvania require emissions testing?
Which areas in Pennsylvania require emissions testing?
Twenty-five counties in four regions: Philadelphia (Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia), Pittsburgh (Allegheny, Beaver, Washington, Westmoreland), South Central (Berks, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Northampton, York), and Northern (Blair, Cambria, Centre, Erie, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Lycoming, Mercer). The remaining 42 counties are exempt from emissions testing.
Are electric or hybrid vehicles exempt from emissions testing in Pennsylvania?
Are electric or hybrid vehicles exempt from emissions testing in Pennsylvania?
Electric vehicles are exempt from emissions testing but must pass the annual safety inspection. Hybrid vehicles with gasoline engines registered in emissions counties are subject to the same emissions test as other gasoline vehicles.
Do diesel vehicles need emissions testing in Pennsylvania?
Do diesel vehicles need emissions testing in Pennsylvania?
No. Diesel vehicles are exempt from the emissions inspection in all Pennsylvania counties. Diesel vehicles must still pass the annual safety inspection statewide.
What happens if my vehicle fails the emissions test in Pennsylvania?
What happens if my vehicle fails the emissions test in Pennsylvania?
One free reinspection is available within 30 days. A repair cost waiver may be issued if you spend at least $150 on qualifying emissions-related repairs and the vehicle still fails. The waiver is valid for one year.
How much does emissions testing cost in Pennsylvania?
How much does emissions testing cost in Pennsylvania?
Fees are set by individual stations. Safety inspections typically cost $35 to $50. Emissions inspections in designated counties add $38 to $45. Total costs for a combined inspection in an emissions county range from approximately $75 to $95.
Do I need an appointment for emissions testing in Pennsylvania?
Do I need an appointment for emissions testing in Pennsylvania?
No appointment is required at most licensed inspection stations. Pennsylvania has thousands of stations across the state. Some stations may accept appointments for convenience.
Where can I find emissions test locations in Pennsylvania?
Where can I find emissions test locations in Pennsylvania?
Licensed inspection stations are located throughout Pennsylvania. PennDOT and the DEP list station information at pa.gov/dmv and drivecleanpa.state.pa.us. Stations are privately owned and display official inspection station signage.
Own an Emissions Testing or Smog Check Station in Pennsylvania?
List your Pennsylvania station for free and connect with drivers actively searching for certified emissions testing and smog check locations near them. Every visitor on this page is looking for exactly what you offer. A verified listing is the most efficient way to advertise your station, putting you directly in front of local drivers at the exact moment they need an inspection.
No credit card required. Free plan available forever.