What vehicles require Emissions in Georgia?

For 2026 vehicle registration, if your vehicle is a 2002 – 2023 model year gasoline-powered car or light-duty truck (8,500 pounds gross vehicle weight rating or less) registered in Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding or Rockdale County, it must be emissions tested.

The three most recent model year vehicles are exempt from emissions testing each year. For registration in 2026, this includes all 2024 and newer model year vehicles.

Additionally, vehicles that are 25 model years or older are exempt from emissions testing. This includes 2001 or older model year vehicles for 2026 registration.

Motorcycles, recreational vehicles (RVs) and motor homes do not require emissions testing for registration.

Diesel vehicles do not require emissions testing for registration.

When do I need to have my vehicle tested?

Your vehicle must be tested every year prior to its registration date (the vehicle owner's birthday). Test early, GCAF recommends having your vehicle inspected four to six weeks prior to the registration renewal date. Vehicles can be tested well in advance if the owner of the vehicle will be out of the area at the time of registration.

As a reminder, an emissions inspection is valid for 12 months or one registration renewal, by the same owner. GCAF recommends contacting your tag office to determine if they will allow a registration renewal prior to the normal renewal period (more than 60 days prior to the motorist's registration renewal date, which is the owner's birthday).

How much does an Emissions Inspection cost?

Our emissions inspection is $25. We do offer a $5 discount to veterans, active duty military, firefighters, and educators. We also have a multi-car discount (ask your inspector for more information)

How early can I have my vehicle inspected?

GCAF recommends having your vehicle inspected four to six weeks prior to the registration renewal date. Vehicles can be tested well in advance if the owner of the vehicle will be out of the area at the time of registration.

We recommend testing 1-3 months before your registration renewal date.

As a reminder, an emissions inspection is valid for 12 months or one registration renewal, by the same owner. GCAF recommends contacting your tag office to determine if they will allow a registration renewal prior to the normal renewal period (more than 60 days prior to the motorist's registration renewal date, which is the owner's birthday).

How long does an Emissions Inspection take?

Emission inspections take roughly 5-10 minutes to complete.