How often do vehicles five years old and newer require emissions testing?

Vehicles that are five years old and newer are typically exempt from emissions testing for the first five years of registration. This exemption is designed to alleviate some regulatory burdens on new vehicle owners, acknowledging that newer vehicles generally meet modern emissions standards and are less likely to produce harmful emissions. During these initial years, the focus is often on ensuring vehicles remain in compliance without the additional requirement of frequent testing, allowing manufacturers to utilize better emission control technologies.

This approach promotes environmental health while also recognizing the investment made by consumers in newer, cleaner vehicles. After the five-year mark, the vehicle becomes subject to regular emissions testing, typically every two years, aligning it with the state's goals of maintaining air quality and ensuring all vehicles on the road meet the necessary standards.