Rhode Island Emissions Test
Under the Rhode Island Vehicle Inspection program, gas, hybrid, and diesel cars get tested statewide in Rhode Island. For 2026, that means model years 2024 and older. Every 2 years, the test comes due.
Which cars have to be tested?
In 2026, the model years Rhode Island tests appear in the green band. A new car stays exempt until it reaches 24,000 miles or 2 years, whichever happens sooner. A car with antique plates doesn't need testing.
Use its model year and fuel to check your car.
Rhode Island emissions test at a glance
| Program | The Rhode Island Vehicle Inspection program |
|---|---|
| Where | Statewide |
| Fuels tested | Gas, hybrid, diesel |
| Model years tested in 2026 | up to 2024 |
| How often | Every 2 years |
| The test | The combined safety and emissions test |
| Fee | $55 |
| Retest | One free reinspection at the same station |
| New cars | Exemption for a new car lasts 24,000 miles or 2 years, whichever comes sooner |
| Older cars | Cars with antique plates are exempt |
| Waiver | Once emissions repairs pass $700 in repair costs, a waiver is available |
How the test works, and what if the car fails?
When a car fails, the report lists the failed items. Fix that before anything else; then go back to the same station for a retest, with one free reinspection.
Rhode Island has a waiver for a car that still fails after repairs, available once emissions repairs go beyond $700 in repair costs.