Connecticut Emissions Test
Through the Connecticut Emissions Program, gas, hybrid, and diesel cars are tested across Connecticut. Model years 2002 to 2022 are the ones covered in 2026. Every 2 years, the test comes due.
Which cars have to be tested?
Look at the green band for the model years Connecticut tests in 2026. A car younger than 4 model years doesn't have to be tested. Cars from 2001 and earlier don't need the test.
See where your car falls using its model year and fuel.
Connecticut emissions test at a glance
| Program | The Connecticut Emissions Program |
|---|---|
| Where | Statewide |
| Fuels tested | Gas, hybrid, diesel |
| Model years tested in 2026 | 2002 to 2022 |
| How often | Every 2 years |
| The test | An OBD plug-in test |
| Fee | $20 |
| Retest | No charge for a retest within 60 days; after that, a $20 late fee applies |
| New cars | No test until a car is 4 model years old |
| Older cars | 2001 and older are exempt |
| Waiver | Once failure-related repairs cost at least $1,137 at a Certified Emissions Repair Facility, a waiver applies (from January 1, 2026). |
How the test works, and what if the car fails?
During the OBD plug-in test, the inspector connects a reader to the port under the dashboard to read the data your car's computer has saved. Your car's self-checks (readiness monitors) must be complete, and the check engine light has to stay off.
A fail means the report will list what didn't pass. Fix that first, then return for the retest within 60 days to keep it free; later, you pay a $20 late fee.
When a car still fails after the repairs, Connecticut offers a waiver: from January 1, 2026, at least $1,137 in failure-related repairs done at a Certified Emissions Repair Facility earns that waiver.