Milwaukee Emissions Test
Among seven southeastern Wisconsin counties, Milwaukee County includes Milwaukee. Cars there need an emissions test every other year before plate renewal. It is run by the Wisconsin Vehicle Inspection Program. WisDOT tells you when your test is due.
- Every two years
- Your plates can't be renewed until the test is done.
- OBD inspection
- The on-board computer and check engine light both get checked.
- Kiosks at 2 sites
- For 2007 and newer vehicles, self-service testing is open 24/7.
- Milwaukee County
- It is one of the 7 counties in the program
Who needs a Milwaukee emissions test
According to WisDOT, vehicles usually kept in Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Washington or Waukesha County need an emissions test. This means Milwaukee falls within the program area.
- Any vehicle with an auto or light truck plate.
- For model years 1996 to 2006 with GVWR under 8,501 pounds: gasoline, natural gas or hybrid vehicles.
- For 2007 and newer models, GVWR can be up to 14,000 pounds. Fuel type: diesel, gasoline, natural gas or hybrid.
Before your plates renew, you test every other year. You also test within 45 days after you buy and register a vehicle. According to the FAQ, testing may occur as early as 180 days ahead of your plate renewal date. Our Wisconsin emissions test page provides statewide details. The emissions test by city guide covers more cities.
Milwaukee emissions test locations
Testing is available at private facilities, and the program runs two testing-only locations with self-service kiosks.
| Kiosk site | Address |
|---|---|
| WIVIP North | Location: Brown Deer, WI 53224. Street address: 8718 W Brown Deer Rd. |
| WIVIP South | 9300 S 27th St., Oak Creek, WI 53154 |
Open 24/7, the kiosks test 2007 and newer vehicles. To find a private facility, enter your city or ZIP in the test center finder. WisDOT says the full list appears if you choose Display All after submitting your ZIP code.
What the Milwaukee emissions test checks
Each vehicle receives an OBD inspection. An inspector or the kiosk verifies that the check engine light works and that your car communicates with its on-board computer. Nine out of ten vehicles pass, according to the program.
Bring one of the following: your renewal statement or eNotify email, registration certificate, emission letter from the DMV, an earlier emission inspection report, or the Wisconsin title. Once you meet the requirement, most motorists can purchase their plate stickers at the test site.
What happens if your Milwaukee car fails?
Repairs are required, and the failed car must be brought back for reinspection. Call 1-866-623-8378 to reach OPUS if the car failed or was rejected in two tests in a row, or if repairs happened between inspections. For the next steps, see our guides about a failed emissions test and an emissions waiver.
Milwaukee emissions test questions
How much does the Milwaukee emissions test cost?
No test price appears on the WisDOT emissions page. Ask the facility before your visit, or call the program line at 1-866-OBD-TEST (1-866-623-8378). The emissions test cost page compares states.
Does the Wisconsin emissions test program cover Milwaukee County?
Yes. Milwaukee is on WisDOT's list of seven counties. The list also includes Kenosha, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Washington and Waukesha.
Who runs the Milwaukee emissions test?
WisDOT is in charge of it, and contractor OPUS Inspections Inc. handles management.