St Louis Emissions Test
Registered in St. Louis City, a gas car from 1996 or newer must get an emissions test along with the safety inspection every 2 years. Diesels from 1997 or newer weighing up to 8,500 pounds follow the same rule. Licensed auto shops perform the work, and the state sets a $24 limit on the emissions fee.
- It happens every 2 years.
- Even model years are tested in even years, and odd ones in odd years
- $24 maximum
- For the emissions test, the fee is capped, and the safety inspection costs up to $12.
- Plug-in OBDII test
- Carried out at a licensed shop along with the safety inspection
- St. Louis City
- Area covered by the Gateway Vehicle Inspection Program
Who needs St. Louis emissions testing?
Registration in St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles County or Jefferson County places a vehicle under the Gateway Vehicle Inspection Program. The city makes up its own area, apart from the county.
- Both gas-powered vehicles from 1996 or newer and diesels from 1997 or newer are covered when they weigh no more than 8,500 pounds (program rules).
- Hybrids that use gas or diesel engines are also tested.
- Your registration papers are mailed by the Department of Revenue 60 days before your plates expire, so you know it is time.
- Changing a title also requires a test.
Your registration will be denied, and you won't get new stickers, if you skip it. For details about the whole state, visit our Missouri emissions test page or use emissions test by city.
Cost of St. Louis emissions testing
| What | Price |
|---|---|
| Emissions test | Up to $24 |
| Safety inspection | Up to $12 |
| Re-inspection at that station within 20 working days | One free |
The vehicle owner page provides the fee caps. A passing test lets you register for 60 days, so don't get it done too soon. The state requests an email report if a station charges more.
Where to get a St. Louis emissions test
Auto shops in the St. Louis area are licensed by the state to perform testing, and each one should post a GVIP sign Run by contractor Worldwide Environmental Products, the program portal includes a station directory that shows where to go (find a station).
- Stations are required to inspect your car no more than two hours after you arrive. Call (314) 416-2115 if they don't.
- When the check engine light is already on, leave it on during testing and avoid repairs just beforehand.
- Reset the readiness monitors by driving the car first.
If your St. Louis car doesn't pass
For the emissions test, the inspector performs an OBDII test by connecting a cable to the OBD port. On a failing report, the ten nearest Missouri Recognized Repair Stations are listed. Keep retesting until your car passes, or until you receive a cost-based waiver. Under the waiver form guide, that waiver requires at least $450 of qualified repairs.
Additional help: waiver for emissions, readiness monitors that aren't ready, and the check engine light plus emissions tests.
Questions about St. Louis emissions testing
Are there separate emissions testing rules for St. Louis City?
No. The Gateway Vehicle Inspection Program lists St. Louis City. It also covers Jefferson County, St. Louis County, and St. Charles County.
How long does the St. Louis emissions test stay valid?
You can use a passing test for registration for 60 days.
Who should I call for the St. Louis emissions test?
Dial 866-623-8378 toll-free (866-OBD-TEST).