Complete Guide
CT Emissions Testing
Connecticut tests nearly 1.3 million vehicles per year. Here's everything you need to know -- who needs testing, exemptions, costs, and how to prepare.
Test Fee
$20
State-mandated
Frequency
Every 2 Years
Biennial cycle
Test Time
~15 min
Quick turnaround
Late Fee
$20
After 30 days past due
Exemptions
Do I Need an Emissions Test?
Instant Checker
25+ Years Old
Vehicles 25 model years old or older (currently 2001 and older) are exempt.
Exempt
Under 4 Years Old
New vehicles are exempt until their 4th model year.
Exempt
Electric / Motorcycle
Fully electric vehicles and motorcycles are exempt.
Exempt
Not sure if your vehicle needs testing? Our free checker tool gives you an instant answer.
P&C Repair -- Thomaston, CT
The Process
How It Works
Plug In
We connect to your vehicle's OBD-II diagnostic port.
Scan
Computer checks readiness monitors and stored trouble codes.
Results
Pass or fail in approximately 15 minutes.
Preparation
How to Prepare
Drive 15-20 Minutes Before the Test
This ensures your catalytic converter is fully warmed up and all OBD-II readiness monitors are set. A cold start or short drive can leave monitors incomplete, causing a "not ready" result.
Check Engine Light Must Be OFF
An illuminated check engine light is an automatic failure. Get it diagnosed and repaired before your test.
Tighten Your Gas Cap
A loose or damaged gas cap can trigger an evaporative system code. Make sure it clicks when you tighten it.
Recently Disconnected Your Battery?
If your battery was disconnected or replaced in the last few days, drive for several drive cycles before testing. The vehicle's monitors need time to reset -- otherwise you'll get a "not ready" result.
After a Failed Test
What If Your Vehicle Fails?
Diagnose
Bring your vehicle in and we'll read the OBD-II codes to pinpoint exactly why it failed.
Repair
If you choose to move forward, our technicians fix the root cause -- oxygen sensors, catalytic converters, gas caps, and more.
Retest
When repairs are complete, we retest right here -- no need to visit a separate station.
You have 60 days to get repairs done and retest. You can drive during the repair period, but you cannot renew your registration until your vehicle passes.
Test station + repair shop = one convenient location.
Because P&C Repair is both a certified test station and a full-service repair shop, you can handle everything in one place -- on your schedule, within the 60-day window. No pressure, no runaround. Just bring it in when you're ready.
Connecticut Program
CT Emissions at a Glance
Stations
200+
Statewide locations
Annual Tests
1.3M
Vehicles tested per year
Test Types
4
OBD-II, Opacity, Gas Cap, PC TSI
Program
Since 1983
Over 40 years running
Deep Dive
CT Emissions Library
Six in-depth guides covering every part of Connecticut emissions testing -- from who's exempt to what to do if your car fails and how the waiver program works.
01 / 8 min read
CT Emissions Test Coming Up? Here's What to Know
Everything Connecticut drivers need to know about emissions testing -- what's checked, who's exempt, how to prepare, and what to do if your vehicle fails.
Read the guide02 / 5 min read
Is Your Car Exempt from CT Emissions Testing? Here's the Full List
Not every vehicle in Connecticut needs an emissions test. Here's the complete list of exemptions -- by age, fuel type, weight, and special circumstances.
Read the guide03 / 6 min read
Check Engine Light Before Your CT Emissions Test? Here's What to Do
Your emissions test is coming up and the check engine light is on. Should you go anyway? Here's why it's an automatic fail and what to do instead.
Read the guide04 / 8 min read
5 Common Reasons Cars Fail CT Emissions (and How to Fix Them)
Most emissions failures in Connecticut come down to these five problems. Here's what causes them, what they cost to fix, and how to prevent them.
Read the guide05 / 7 min read
Car Failed CT Emissions? Here's Exactly What to Do Next
Your car failed the Connecticut emissions test. Don't panic -- here's your step-by-step guide to repairs, retesting, waivers, and deadlines.
Read the guide06 / 6 min read
CT Emissions Waiver: How It Works and When You Qualify
Spent a fortune on emissions repairs and your car still won't pass? Connecticut's emissions waiver program might save you. Here's exactly how it works.
Read the guideCommon Questions
CT Emissions FAQ
Get Your Emissions Test at P&C Repair
State-certified testing station in Thomaston, CT. $20 test fee. If you fail, we diagnose and fix it on-site.