Virginia Emissions Test
Through Virginia Air Check, gas, hybrid, and diesel cars get tested in 10 Virginia areas. For 2026, that covers model years from 2002 to 2022. You'll need the test once every 2 years.
Which cars have to be tested?
Model years Virginia tests in 2026 appear in the green band. The newest 4 model years don't have to be tested. If a gas car is more than 25 years old, it's exempt.
Check your car using its model year and fuel type.
Virginia emissions test at a glance
| Program | Virginia Air Check |
|---|---|
| Where | Fairfax County, Arlington County, Stafford County, Loudoun County, Prince William County, City of Fairfax, City of Alexandria, City of Manassas Park, City of Falls Church, and City of Manassas are the 10 areas |
| Fuels tested | Gas, hybrid, diesel |
| Model years tested in 2026 | 2002 to 2022 (diesels from 1997) |
| How often | Every 2 years |
| The test | Either a certified-station test or a roadside remote sensing pass (RAPIDPASS) |
| Fee | The test costs up to $28, and registration adds a $2 emissions fee each year |
| New cars | The 4 newest model years are exempt |
| Older cars | Gas cars more than 25 years old don't have to be tested |
| Waiver | State law sets the limit from $450 in 1990 dollars, then moves it up for inflation annually. Ask the inspection station for the current figure. If work done by a certified emissions repair technician costs more than that limit, the waiver applies |
How the test works, and what if the car fails?
A failed test comes with a report that names what failed. Fix that problem first, then return for the retest.
Virginia has a waiver for a car that still fails after repairs. The trigger is emissions work by a technician certified for repairs going over the cost limit. The limit begins at $450 in 1990 dollars under state law, moves up with inflation annually, and the inspection station states the current figure