Emissions Inspection

Virginia Vehicle Emissions Inspection is required by DEQ for vehicles driven in the Northern Virginia area.

A&S Auto Service is a certified Emissions Inspection Stations located in the Northern Virginia area in Woodbridge Va.

How Does the Emissions Inspection Work?

A certified emissions station tests the vehicle using the procedure applicable to its model year, weight, fuel type, and configuration. After testing, the station electronically submits the result to the Virginia DMV. Emissions testing is separate from Virginia’s annual safety inspection.

What Should I Do Before an Emissions Test?

Avoid disconnecting the battery or clearing diagnostic codes immediately before testing. These actions reset the vehicle’s readiness monitors and may prevent the inspection from being completed until the required driving cycles have occurred. Bring your current registration and allow sufficient driving time after recent battery or computer work.

Yes. An illuminated check-engine light or incomplete OBD-II readiness monitors can affect the inspection result. A diagnostic code identifies the system that detected a fault but does not automatically prove which component failed. Proper diagnostic testing should be completed before replacing parts.

Can a Check-Engine Light Affect the Inspection?

What Happens if My Vehicle Does Not Pass?

Which Vehicles May Be Exempt?

You will receive an inspection result identifying the issue. Diagnosis and repairs are separate from the state inspection and require your authorization. After repairs, the vehicle may need additional driving before its readiness monitors complete and it can be retested.

Eligibility and exemptions depend on model year, fuel type, vehicle weight, registration status, and other factors. Some newer vehicles, older gasoline vehicles, motorcycles, qualifying clean-fuel vehicles, and certain other vehicles may be exempt. Diesel vehicles are not automatically exempt. Check your specific vehicle through the Virginia DMV or DEQ.

Who Needs a Virginia Emissions Inspection?

Qualifying vehicles garaged in Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, or Stafford counties—or in Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, or Manassas Park—must meet Virginia emissions requirements. Inspections are generally valid for two years. Check your DMV renewal notice or vehicle record to confirm whether testing is due.

Look up you vehicle test results