Vehicle Emissions Testing in Wisconsin and Illinois: What You Need to Know

Hello, fellow drivers! Today, we're going to discuss vehicle emissions testing in Wisconsin and Illinois. This blog is here to provide you with helpful information and make the process a little easier for you.

First things first, let's talk about what vehicle emissions testing is all about. Emissions tests are done to check the amount of pollution your car produces. These tests help keep our air clean and our environment healthy. Both Wisconsin and Illinois have specific requirements for testing, so let's dive into their rules.

In Wisconsin, emissions testing is required for certain vehicles registered in specific counties. If you live in Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Washington, or Waukesha County, you'll need to have your vehicle tested. Here's what you should know:

Testing frequency: In Wisconsin, you need to have your vehicle tested every 2 years. The test is usually done around the time you renew your vehicle's registration.

Vehicle types: Most gasoline-powered vehicles manufactured since 1996 with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 8,500 pounds, or less, are required to undergo emissions testing. Diesel vehicles with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds, or less, and model year 2007 and newer, also need to be tested.

Exemptions: Vehicles that are less than 5 years old, classic cars (20 years or older), electric vehicles, and certain hybrid vehicles are exempt from testing.

Test locations: You can find authorized testing facilities throughout the affected counties. These facilities are usually private businesses, like repair shops and service stations.

In Illinois, emissions testing is required for vehicles registered in the following counties: Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, Monroe, St. Clair, Will, and Madison. Here's what you need to know:

Testing frequency: In Illinois, you'll need to have your vehicle tested every 2 years, just like in Wisconsin. The test is typically due in the same month as your vehicle's registration renewal.

Vehicle types: Most gasoline-powered vehicles that are 4 years old or older with a GVWR of 8,500 pounds, or less, are required to undergo emissions testing. Diesel vehicles with a GVWR of 8,500 pounds or less and model year 2007 and newer also need to be tested.

Exemptions: Vehicles that are less than 4 years old, electric vehicles, and certain hybrid vehicles are exempt from testing.

Test locations: In Illinois, you can visit Illinois Air Team testing stations to get your vehicle tested. These stations are specifically set up for emissions testing and are located throughout the affected counties.

At the end of the day, vehicle emissions testing is an important part of keeping our air clean and our environment healthy. If you live in Wisconsin or Illinois, make sure you're aware of your state's testing requirements and stay on top of your vehicle's emissions tests. Happy driving!