Denver Emissions Test
After a gas car registered in Denver passes its first seven model years, it needs an Air Care Colorado emissions test, and cars from 1982 onward repeat it every 2 years. $35 is the fee for the test, while a 1981 or older car pays $20.
- Every 2 years
- 1982 and newer cars; yearly testing for 1981 and older cars
- $35
- $20 for 1981 and older, per inspection
- Model years: 7
- The newest gas cars are exempt
- 18 stations
- Across the Denver metro and North Front Range
Do I need a Denver emissions test?
The Colorado legislature's emissions page lists Denver among the counties with full program coverage, together with Boulder, Broomfield, Douglas and Jefferson. The Air Care Colorado FAQ explains that your registration renewal postcard shows whether testing is due. Complete the test by the last day of your registration month, and you have one additional month of grace. You also need a test if, despite living elsewhere, you drive into the area for work or school on at least 90 days each year. State rules appear on the Colorado emissions test page.
Denver emissions test cost and test types
| Vehicle | Test | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 8 to 11 model years old | OBD plug-in | $35 |
| 12 model years old through 1982 | I/M 240 treadmill | $35 |
| 1981 and older | Two-speed idle | $20 |
For details, see both the Air Care Colorado home page and the where to go page. Pay $25 for VIN verification; using cards adds a 2% fee.
Denver emissions test locations
One Denver location is Lipan at 2300 S. Lipan St.; another is Warren at 10190 E. Warren Ave. In the metro area and North Front Range, the program operates 18 stations. You can visit from Monday until Friday between 8 a.m. and 5:30 in the evening, or on Saturday from 8 a.m. until 1 in the afternoon. Closed days are Sundays and state holidays. When the temperature drops below 15 degrees Fahrenheit, stations close. Lines tend to be shorter around mid-month, during late afternoons, and on Saturdays. You can expect longer waits on Mondays and during the month's final days. Before you go, check live wait times. Starting in 2026, Colorado also plans to add 24/7 self-service OBD kiosks, according to CDPHE. Compare Fort Collins or review the emissions test by city list.
Denver emissions test failed
You can request a waiver from the Colorado Department of Revenue when documented repairs of at least $715 still leave you failing a re-inspection. Diesels are not tested at Air Care Colorado stations. Learn more about an emissions waiver.
Denver emissions test questions
How much is the Denver emissions test?
The fee is $35, but vehicles from 1981 and older pay $20.
Is a Denver emissions station visit necessary?
Maybe. A roadside RapidScreen unit finding your car exceptionally clean means your renewal postcard says Passed Roadside Emissions. You can then skip the next visit.