Colorado Vehicle Emissions Requirements in 2024

Vehicle emissions are the release of pollutants from a vehicle’s tailpipe. These pollutants are a combination of the exhaust from the engine and the evaporation of gasoline and other chemicals from the fuel system. The emissions from a vehicle can be a significant source of air pollution, especially in urban areas where there is a ton of traffic. They can contribute to various health problems in individuals, including respiratory illnesses, heart disease, and cancer. For the environment, vehicle emissions can cause smog, acid rain, and climate change.

To improve air quality and protect public health, the state of Colorado adopts stricter emissions standards for vehicles. These rules are designed to reduce the number of pollutants that are released into the atmosphere. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is responsible for overseeing the implementation of these standards. Each year, modifications may be made to the rules to keep up with changes in technology and emissions. To ensure that your vehicle is in compliance with the Colorado emissions requirements, it is important to stay up to date on the latest rules.

Presently, the following rules are in place for Colorado vehicle emissions:

• If your vehicle was made between 1982 – 2022, you are required to get an emissions test every two years. The test must be done at a licensed emissions testing facility. This is to ensure that your vehicle meets the standards set by the state of Colorado. If you do not pass the emissions test, you will be required to make repairs to your vehicle in order to get it into compliance.
• If your vehicle was made in 1981 or earlier and does not have collector plates, every year, you are required to participate in a two-speed idle test. This test also must be done at a licensed emissions testing facility. This test aims to ensure that your vehicle’s engine is operating properly and not releasing excessive pollutants into the atmosphere.
• If you have sold, purchased, or simply changed the ownership of any vehicle, the seller of the vehicle is mandated to have an emissions test performed as a part of the transaction. The results must be given to the vehicle’s new owner and officially documented with the state.
• If you are caught driving any car without a valid emissions certificate, you may be subject to a fine. The total amount of the fine will depend on the county in which you were stopped.

By following these legal environmental guidelines, you can help to improve air quality in Colorado and protect the health of yourself and others.

Other Ways to Drive Green in Colorado

As a driver in Colorado, you can also do your part to reduce emissions and help the environment by following these tips:

• Limit your idling. Turn off your engine if you are stopped for more than 30 seconds. This can save fuel and reduce emissions. It’s one of the reasons why most newer vehicles have an automatic shut-off feature when idling. This has a lasting positive impact on air quality.
• Properly maintain your vehicle. This includes regularly checking your engine oil, air filter, and tires. Keeping your vehicle in good working order can improve its fuel efficiency by up to 30 percent. If you were to let a vehicle go without maintenance, your risk of being involved in an accident increases, in addition to the poor emissions your vehicle would produce.
• Plan your trips. Try to combine errands into one trip rather than making several shorter ones. This can save you time and money, and it will reduce the number of emissions your vehicle emits.
• Consider carpooling or taking public transportation. This can help to reduce traffic congestion and the number of vehicles on the road. It’s also a great way to save money on gas.
• Bike or walk when possible. This is a great way to get some exercise while also helping the environment. Colorado is a great state for biking, with many trails and bike lanes available not only in the wilderness for beautiful recreation but also in many urban areas.
• Choose a low-emitting vehicle when purchasing a new car. Look for vehicles with the “low emissions” label. These vehicles have been certified by the state of Colorado to meet strict emissions standards. Owning one of these vehicles can help you do your part to improve air quality.

By following these guidelines, you can do your part to help improve air quality in Colorado. These simple steps can have a lasting positive impact on the state’s environment. Colorado is a beautiful state, and it’s important to do our part to keep it that way.

FAQs About Colorado Vehicle Emissions Requirements

What year vehicle needs an emission test in Colorado?

Every car needs an emission test. The specific type and frequency of that test depend on the model year. If your vehicle was made in 1981 or earlier and does not have collector plates, you are required to participate in a two-speed idle test every year. Any car after 1981 needs an emission test every two years.

What vehicles are exempt from emissions tests in CO?

If your vehicle is a 1975 model or older, has collector plates, or is diesel-powered, you are exempt from emissions tests. Also, all-electric-powered vehicles are exempt. This is because they do not produce emissions and therefore do not harm air quality.

What parts of Colorado require emissions testing?

While it is recommended that you get your vehicle emissions tested every two years, it is only required in certain counties of Colorado. Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson are the counties requiring emissions tests. Some portions of Adams, Arapahoe, Larimer, and Weld also require emissions tests, so it’s best to check with your local DMV to ensure you are compliant.

How do I avoid emissions testing in Colorado?

The only way to completely avoid emissions testing in Colorado is to own a vehicle that is exempt from testing or live in a county that does not require testing. For example, if you own an electric car, you will not have to get your vehicle emissions tested as these vehicles have no negative impact on air quality.

Contact Car Accident Lawyers in Colorado

If you have any questions about Colorado vehicle emissions requirements, contact our experienced Denver personal injury lawyers. Or were you in a car accident and need help? Contact the legal experts at Cheney Galluzzi & Howard today.