New York Emissions Inspection: Who Is Tested and How

In New York the emissions inspection is done at the same time as the annual safety inspection. The test type depends on the vehicle's model year, fuel and weight.

Information checked against official sources on October 24, 2026.

Independent guide. This site is not run by any state DMV, state police or environmental agency, and it is not affiliated with any repair shop or inspection station, including any business with a similar name. Rules and fees change, so confirm anything important with the official source linked at the bottom of each page.

OBDII inspection

Most 1996 or newer gasoline-powered vehicles and most 1997 or newer diesel-powered vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of less than 8,501 pounds get the On-Board Diagnostics Generation II (OBDII) inspection. It checks that the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (the “check engine” light) operates and illuminates, and it verifies the test results of the vehicle's on-board emissions diagnostic system.

Low Enhanced inspection

A “Low Enhanced” emissions inspection is required for most other vehicles unless they are exempt. It applies to vehicles from model year 1996 and older, through vehicles up to 25 model years old, that weigh 18,000 lbs or less. Gasoline vehicles are checked for the presence and connection of required emissions control devices, including a gas cap that is present, in good condition and fits properly. If the vehicle was built with them, the inspector examines the catalytic converter, EGR valve, PCV system, air injection system, evaporative emissions control, fuel inlet restrictor and thermostatic air cleaner.

Diesel smoke opacity test

Most diesel-powered vehicles with a GVWR greater than 8,500 pounds registered in the New York Metropolitan Area (the five counties of New York City, and Nassau, Suffolk, Rockland and Westchester counties) are subject to a smoke opacity test.

Exempt from emissions inspection

• Motorcycles
• Vehicles less than two model years old
• Vehicles more than 25 model years old
• Diesel-powered vehicles, except diesels that are 1997 or newer with a GVWR below 8,501 pounds
• Electric-powered vehicles
• Vehicles with historical plates
• Vehicles subject to the heavy vehicle safety inspection

What happens if the vehicle fails

Vehicles that fail the emissions inspection may not be able to become registered, or if already registered, the registration may not be renewed. The DMV uses Registration Based Enforcement: you cannot renew a registration unless the DMV has a record that the vehicle passed the required emissions inspection within the last 12 months, or you provide a copy of the vehicle inspection report.

The DMV's advice: if the check engine light indicates a malfunction, have the vehicle properly repaired. See also the rules for what is checked in the safety inspection.

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