Oregon Emissions Test
Through the DEQ Vehicle Inspection Program, Oregon checks gas, hybrid, and diesel cars across 2 areas. For 2026, model years from 1975 through 2022 are covered. You’ll need this test every 2 years, ahead of registration renewal.
What cars need testing?
In 2026, the green band marks which model years Oregon tests. A car is exempt if it is among the 4 newest model years. In Portland, 1974 and older; in Medford, cars more than 20 years old.
Look up your car using its model year and fuel.
Oregon emissions test at a glance
| Program | The DEQ Vehicle Inspection Program |
|---|---|
| Where | 2 areas: Portland Metro, Medford/Ashland |
| Fuels tested | Gas, hybrid, diesel |
| Model years tested in 2026 | 1975 to 2022 |
| How often | Every 2 years, before registration renewal |
| The test | Cars from 1996 and newer get an OBD test; 1995 and older get a tailpipe test |
| Fee | Portland: $25; Medford: $20; payment is due only after a pass |
| Retest | No charge when the car fails |
| New cars | The 4 newest model years are exempt |
| Older cars | For Portland, 1974 and older; for Medford, over 20 years old |
How the test works, and what if the car fails?
For an OBD plug-in test, the inspector connects a reader to the port under the dashboard, then reads the information saved by the car's computer. Your check engine light must be off, and the self-checks (readiness monitors) must be complete.
A tailpipe test uses an exhaust probe to measure what comes out, most often on older models.
When a car does not pass, the report identifies the failure. Fix that first, then return for the retest; there's no fee if the car fails.
Find what went wrong · Fix the problem, get a waiver, or sell?