What should I know before the test?

Test Day

  • Bring the vehicle that needs the emissions test.
  • Start early and arrive early. Repairs may need to be made and emissions repairs are complicated.
Locate a GVIP Station near you
  • The inspection station is required to inspect your vehicle within two hours of your arrival. If they do not, call (314) 416-2115.
  • Vehicles with the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (aka Check Engine Light) on must be tested with the light on. Do not get repairs right before the test.

Do not have repairs right before a vehicle inspection, even if the check engine light is on or you know your vehicle will fail. This will disqualify you for a cost based waiver.

  • Drive your vehicle before taking the test to reset readiness monitors.
  • If you don’t drive your vehicle often you may be eligible for a Mileage-Based (Emissions Inspection) Exemption.

The emissions test is $24 and the safety inspection is $12. Send an email to report a station that charged more than this.

Passing the Test

The emissions testing station will give you:

  • An official state vehicle inspection report certifying a passing emissions inspection.
  • An emissions inspection windshield sticker.

A passing test is only valid for registration for 60 days from the inspection date for a vehicle owner.

Visit Dept. of Revenue for Vehicle License Renewal and Titling

Failing the Test

Vehicle inspection station will give you:

Vehicles failing a paid inspection get one free re-inspection at the same station within 20 business days (excludes holidays and weekdays) of date paid. You do not need to repair your vehicle at same inspection station.

Get Information and Repairing and Retesting Your Vehicle

This webpage is a resource for testing and does not have all testing information.