Utah Emissions Test
In 5 counties, Utah county emissions programs test cars that run on gas, hybrid, or diesel power. Model years 1996 to 2024 are included for 2026. Cars under 6 years old get tested every 2 years (even model years in even years), then once a year after that; Cache County tests every 2 years.
Which cars need testing?
In 2026, the model years Utah tests appear in the green band. Cars in the 2 newest model years don't need the test. Cars from 1995 or earlier don't need testing.
Use the model year and fuel type to check your car.
Utah emissions test at a glance
| Program | The Utah county vehicle emissions programs |
|---|---|
| Where | Weber County, Utah County, Salt Lake County, Davis County, and Cache County make up the 5 counties. |
| Fuels tested | Gas, hybrid, diesel |
| Model years tested in 2026 | 1996 to 2024 (diesels from 1998) |
| How often | Under 6 years old: every 2 years, with even-year cars in even years; after that, every year. Cache County stays every 2 years. |
| The test | Cars from 1996 and newer get an OBD plug-in test |
| Fee | Set by the station and posted |
| New cars | The 2 newest model years are exempt |
| Older cars | 1995 and older are exempt |
| Waiver | Davis County grants a one-year waiver once you've paid for at least $450 of emissions repairs (cars 1996 and newer) |
How the test works, and what if the car fails?
During an OBD plug-in test, the inspector connects a reader to the port under the dashboard and reads the data the car's computer has stored. Make sure the check engine light is off; the self-checks (readiness monitors) must also be complete.
When the car does not pass, the report shows what failed. That comes first: Fix it, then go back to test again.
Utah allows a waiver if failure continues after repairs: Davis County gives a one-year waiver once emissions repairs reach at least $450 (1996 and newer cars).