Las Vegas Smog Check
Gasoline cars based in the Las Vegas Valley must complete a Nevada smog check every year. At a Clark County station, the price for a light-duty gas car can reach up to $75.50. The OBD II port is used to test vehicles from 1996 and newer.
- Once a year
- how often testing happens for a qualifying Las Vegas vehicle
- Up to $75.50
- Light-duty gas car maximum in Clark County
- OBD II
- Check for 1996 and later vehicles
- Las Vegas Valley
- and the five-mile buffer zone around it
Las Vegas smog checks: who needs one?
Under the Nevada DMV Emission Control Program, vehicles need testing across the Las Vegas Valley (a hydrographic drainage basin, 212) and in its five-mile buffer zone. Included in that area are Mount Charleston, Blue Diamond and Bonnie Springs. Vehicles in Goodsprings and Cold Creek are exempt, while Jean lies beyond the buffer area.
- Any model year 1968 or newer vehicle qualifies if gasoline powered at any weight, or if diesel up to 14,000 lbs GVWR.
- During their first three registrations, new vehicles are not tested.
- Hybrid vehicles are exempt for five model years
You can see the state-wide picture on the Nevada emissions test page.
Las Vegas smog check cost
| Clark County vehicle | Test | Certificate | Maximum total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light-duty gasoline | $68.50 | $7 | $75.50 |
| Heavy-duty gasoline | $68 | $7 | $75 |
| Diesel | $83 | $7 | $90 |
These maximums come from the DMV's annual survey of station labor rates, and each station must post its fees. Registration renewal at a station may carry an extra charge of up to $10. A test that passes stays valid for 90 days.
Las Vegas smog check locations
Find a station through the DMV emission station search. Set County to Clark, then select either a 1G test-only station or a 2G test-and-repair station. Emissions repairs can be done only by a 2G station. At 2621 E. Sahara Ave. in Las Vegas, the DMV Emission lab can be reached at (702) 486-4981.
A failed test, plus the differences between Clark County and Washoe County
| Item | Clark (Las Vegas) | Washoe (Reno) |
|---|---|---|
| Light-duty gas maximum | $75.50 | $71.50 |
| Waiver repair spending | $450 at a 2G station | $200, station or owner |
If you fail, repair the car, then pass a second test so you can register. A waiver remains valid for one year; see our emissions waiver guide. With income limits, Clark County's Smog Free voucher covers up to $975 toward repairs for 1968 to 1999 vehicles. The city emissions test page lists more cities.
Las Vegas smog check questions
Is a Las Vegas smog check the same as an emissions test?
Yes. The Nevada DMV's yearly check is called the Emission Control Program, and vehicles from 1996 and newer take the test through OBD II.
Should I take a test while my check engine light is on?
The DMV tells you to test anyway. When repairs cost a lot, failing the test is where you start toward a waiver.