DOT emissions testing and requirements are fairly strict in the state of Maryland. Testing is required for most vehicles under the Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP). Most vehicles weighing over 8,500 pounds must be tested every 2 years. Keep reading for the most pertinent information regarding your next DOT emissions testing appointment.
Does My Vehicle Need to Be Tested?
If a vehicle is being used, it must have an emissions test every 2 years, unless it is exempt from VEIP testing for one of the following reasons:
- 1995 or older under 8,500 lbs Gross Vehicle Weight
- Vehicles weighing more than 26,000 lbs gross vehicle weight
- Vehicles powered solely by diesel or electric
- Motorcycles
- Vehicles registered as a farm truck, farm truck tractor or farm area vehicle
- Historic or Antique vehicles
- New vehicles and qualified hybrids for the first 36 months after titling and registration
- Fire apparatus owned or leased by the State of Maryland, a county, municipality, volunteer fire department or rescue squad
- Ambulances currently exempted will remain exempt
- Vehicles registered to senior citizens over 70 or vehicles registered with hard metal disable tags and who drive 5,000 miles per year or less (requires waiver)
- Vehicles registered as a Class N street rod vehicle
- A military vehicle owned by the federal government and used for tactical, combat, or relief operations, or for training for these operations
- Vehicles registered as a Class H school vehicle or Class P passenger bus
If you can’t remember when you had your last emissions test, you can look up your next due date here. You may also find more information about extensions, exemptions, and waivers here.
Where Can I Get My Vehicle Tested?
What does DOT emissions testing cover?
There are 3 main components addressed during VEIP Maryland DOT emissions testing.
Gas Cap Test
Required for model years 1977-1995, weighing 8,501-26,000 lbs:
- Gas cap is placed on testing adapter.
- Cap is gently pressurized with air to ensure that it seals tightly.
- Cap is returned securely to the vehicle.
On-board Diagnostic Test (OBD)
Required for model years 1996 and newer (gas, propane) weighing 8,500 lbs or less AND heavy-duty vehicles model year 2008 or newer weighing 8,501-14,000 lbs:
- Scan tool is plugged into the on-board diagnostic system through a connector (usually under dashboard).
- System is checked to determine if any emissions control components are failing, causing the overall vehicle emission to exceed allowable limits.
Tailpipe Test
Required for model years 1977-1995 weighing 8,501 lbs or less AND heavy-duty model years 2008 and newer weighing 14,001-26,000 lbs:
- Vehicle’s emissions are analyzed while the engine is at idle. The idle test is appropriate for older model cars and heavy-duty vehicles because of their design.
How Can I Prepare for MD DOT Emissions Testing?
- The vehicle’s oil and coolant levels should be at the manufacturer’s recommended levels and the tires should be properly inflated.
- If the vehicle requires an idle tail pipe test, the vehicle should be driven at normal highway speeds for at least 20 minutes before the test to warm it up. Once you arrive for the test, leave the engine running until instructed by the inspector.
- Make sure you have a gas cap and that it properly fits.
- If the OBD “check engine” or similar warning lights are lit on the dashboard, the vehicle will fail the OBD test. If the light is lit, you should see your dealer or repair technician before coming in for the test.
- If the vehicle has had recent repairs that required the battery cables to be disconnected, or the computer reset, drive the vehicle in a normal manner for one week to reset the readiness codes before bringing the vehicle in for the OBD test.
- The vehicle cannot be tested if the shift indicator is not properly aligned or the driver’s door is not operational.
Make sure to address each bullet point above before taking your vehicle in for VEIP DOT Emissions Testing, as any one of them could affect your results.
What If My Vehicle Fails Testing?
You should have your vehicle repaired and re-tested as soon as possible to avoid suspension and fees. If you have other issues, such as not being in-state during the due date, receiving a suspension notice, or if you have a unique situation, please contact the Maryland Vehicle Administration here.
Key Resources
There’s a lot to chew on when it comes to Maryland DOT emissions testing, and regulations may change at any time. Below, we’ve included a list of tools and resources for you to dig deeper into Maryland’s emissions requirements.
If you prefer to speak to someone local, don’t hesitate to give us a call. While we do not offer VEIP tests in our shop, we’d be happy to help in any way we can, including completing repairs and tune-ups prior to your test.
Meet M&L Heavy-Duty Truck Mechanic, Ronald Benton
One-third of the famed Benton Brothers, Ronald has been with M&L for over 30 years. His first car was a 1969 Chevelle and his favorite tool is the Diagnostic Scan Tool.