Welcome to the Ohio E-Check Homepage

What is the difference between a ‘permanent exemption’ and owning a vehicle that is permanently exempt?

Vehicles that are eligible for a permanent exemption must make arrangements for the vehicle to have a one-time visual inspection performed by Ohio EPA Mobile Sources field staff. These vehicles include:

1. Electrically powered vehicles (one-time verification inspection by Ohio EPA Mobile Sources Section required.)

2. Vehicles operating on alternative fuel, such as propane, butane, alcohol or natural gas (one-time verification inspection by Ohio EPA Mobile Sources Section required.)

3. Non-commercial vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds GVWR 

Several types of vehicles are permanently exempt from the E-Check test requirement and do not need a visual inspection. A complete list with a detailed explanation may be found in Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) Section 3745-26-12(c). It is not necessary for vehicle owners that are permanently exempt to be issued an exemption certificate. The most common types are listed below.

1. Vehicles more than 25 years old, as determined by vehicle model year

2. Commercial vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds GVWR

3. Historical and collector’s vehicles (contact Ohio BMV for details)

4. Parade and exhibition vehicles (contact Ohio BMV for details)

5. Motorcycles, recreational vehicles and motor homes (contact Ohio BMV for details)

There may be other circumstances under which you may qualify for an exemption or an extension. If you have questions, contact an Ohio EPA E-Check field office or the Ohio EPA Mobile Sources Section, P.O. Box 1049, Columbus, OH 43216-1049. Phone: (614) 644-3059.

Title transfers

Whenever a vehicle’s title transfers to another individual within one of the seven E-Check counties and that vehicle’s emissions test has expired, the vehicle must be tested. Vehicles within the four year exemption period do not test on a title transfer. Vehicles that are 25 years old or newer and were titled out-of-state must also be tested before they are registered in Ohio. If the previous owner has a valid test certificate, the new owner may use it to register the vehicle. In the event the previous owner does not have the certificate or is not sure if the vehicle has been tested in the last 365 days, please click here for vehicle test history. You must have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to obtain this information.

IMPORTANT: An inspection certificate is valid for 365 days following the date of the test. If a vehicle that has undergone a title change is registered within 365 days from a previous test, then the new owner will not need to have the vehicle tested again in order to register. An inspection certificate is valid for one full year from test date, regardless of title changes.

 Automobile Dealer Information

Vehicles not registered in Ohio requesting testing

Any individual seeking an emissions test for a vehicle registered out of the State of Ohio or a vehicle registered in an Ohio county where testing is not mandatory will be required to purchase a voucher in advance for each vehicle to be tested. Testing vouchers can be purchased from Envirotest Systems at full-service E-Check stations for $18 each. Credit cards are not accepted.

All gasoline- and diesel-fueled vehicles, including flexible fuel and hybrid vehicles, equal to or less than 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), 25 years old or newer from the current testing year, and registered within an E-Check county must comply with the E-Check requirement. All even-model-year vehicles must test in even-numbered years. All odd-model-year vehicles must test in odd-numbered years.

New vehicles are exempt for the first four model years.

For more information, please visit our Need a Test? website.

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Automobiles are a major contributor to ground-level ozone. In Ohio, the E-Check program is the most cost-effective method of reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and maintaining the required air quality. High pollution levels not only affect the future health of Ohioans, but also make it more difficult to draw new business and create jobs in our communities. The E-Check program will help provide a healthy future and a strong economy for Ohioans and their families.

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The E-Check program is a key component of the 10-year maintenance plan to protect air quality while allowing for 10 years of economic growth. With the pollution reductions achieved by the E-Check program, there is more room for new businesses to bring jobs to Ohio and for existing businesses to expand.

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The seven Ohio counties currently participating in the program include: Cuyahoga; Geauga; Lake; Lorain; Medina; Portage; and Summit counties.

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Non-Ohio residents moving into Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage or Summit counties:

If moving into an E-Check county one of the following processes must be followed to register a vehicle in the State of Ohio:

• The owner of the vehicle must obtain a new Ohio driver’s license with the updated address. After obtaining the license, take the license, current vehicle registration, and the vehicle to the testing station. After passing the emissions test, the owner of the vehicle will be able to obtain an Ohio title and registration.

• Purchase a voucher for $18 at the station or from Envirotest Systems. After completing the registration process, the motorist will be eligible for a refund. For more information on the voucher process, click here.

• The owner of the vehicle must go to the title bureau and request the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) verification inspection only. The owner will pay $3.50 for the inspection.
  • After the VIN inspection has been completed, the owner will take the vehicle to an E-Check station for testing. The owner will need to present the VIN Inspection Certificate to receive a free test. If the VIN Inspection Certificate is not presented, one of the following must be presented:
    • Ohio title
    • Ohio memorandum of title
    • Ohio lease agreement with the VIN and your Ohio address listed on it
    • Ohio temporary registration
  • After passing the emissions test, the owner of the vehicle should return to the title bureau and obtain an Ohio title. The owner can also obtain the required registration from the registrar.

Ohio residents moving into an E-Check county are only required to test if the current year corresponds with your vehicle’s normal testing year. The paragraph below will help you determine if your vehicle needs a test.

Testing is required for even-year vehicle models in even years and odd-year vehicle models in odd years (i.e. a 2008 model year vehicle is required to test in 2016, a 2007 model year vehicle is not required to test in 2016). If the vehicle is not required to test for registration purposes, proceed to the registration bureau and register as usual. 

• The owner of the vehicle must update their Ohio driver’s license with the updated address. After obtaining a new license or postcard from the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) with the updated information, take the license or postcard, current vehicle registration, and the vehicle to the testing station. After passing the emissions test, the owner of the vehicle will be able to obtain the required registration.
• Purchase a voucher from Envirotest for $18. Vouchers may be purchased at the stations or via phone at 1-800-CAR-TEST.
  • Proceed to the E-Check station and have the vehicle tested. The voucher must be presented at the time of the test.
  • After passing the emissions test, the owner can obtain the required registration from the registrar.
  • After passing the emissions test, a reimbursement for the cost of the test can be obtained from Envirotest. For refund information, call 1-800-CAR-TEST.

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All diesel-fueled vehicles equaling 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or less must be tested through the E-Check program if they are registered in one of the seven E-Check counties. Model year 1996-and-older diesel-fueled vehicles are given an opacity test to determine the “density” of the exhaust emitted from the vehicle’s tailpipe. Opacity is defined as the percentage of light transmitted from a source which is prevented from reaching a light detector. The major environmental concern with diesel-fueled vehicles is the particulate matter emitted as a result of combustion. Particulate matter includes microscopic particles and tiny droplets of liquid. Because of their small size, these particles are not stopped in the nose and upper lungs and may end up in the lower lungs. These particles can then become trapped and cause irritation. Exposure to particulate matter can cause wheezing and similar symptoms in people with asthma or other forms of chronic lung disease.

Beginning Jan. 5, 2004, model year 1997-and-newer diesel-fueled vehicles will undergo the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) II test, instead of the tailpipe test. For more information on OBD II, please see the OBD II FAQ.

If a diesel-fueled vehicle cannot be driven on the dynamometer due to conditions such as all-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, etc., then it is given an idle snap test. This is a test where the vehicle remains in neutral or park, and the engine is revved to produce emissions. The dynamometer is not utilized during this method of testing. 

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An E-Check compliance certificate is good for 365 days, so it is possible to have your vehicle tested up to one year in advance of your registration date. It is often helpful to test early when you know that you will not be in Ohio when it is time to renew. The certificate must be valid through vehicle registration expiration date.

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Any motorist may take a vehicle requiring an emission test to the testing station. Ohio EPA recommends that the motorist take the vehicle title or registration to ensure a smooth testing process.

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Vehicles are required to be tested every two years. Vehicles with an even-number model year will be inspected in even years. For example, a 2000 vehicle will be tested in 2012, 2014, etc. Vehicles with an odd-number model year will be inspected in odd years. For example, a 1999 vehicle will be tested in 2011, 2013, etc. Since the compliance certificate is good for 365 days, we recommend that you have your vehicle tested far in advance of the registration expiration date.

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Ohio EPA will provide motorists with the Ohio testing history of a vehicle. To obtain the Ohio testing history, call Ohio EPA at (614) 644-3059 with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). To learn if the vehicle has a valid test, motorists may contact the Ohio E-Check hotline at 1-800-CAR-TEST.

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You will be notified by mail approximately 90 days before your registration expires. The mailer will provide you with station hours and a phone number to call for more information.

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No. Vehicles are tested on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointments are necessary.

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If the seller of the vehicle supplies you with a valid E-Check compliance certificate, the vehicle does not need to be tested again. If the vehicle does not have a valid E-Check compliance certificate, you must have the vehicle tested prior to registering the vehicle. If the buyer is unsure whether the vehicle has a valid certificate, please contact 1-800-CAR-TEST with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Please note that if the vehicle is within the first four model year exemption period, no test is required.

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Yes. Simply mail the emissions test certificate with your renewal notice and registration fee.

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The E-Check tailpipe test measures your vehicle’s emissions under various operating conditions. It is designed to measure levels of hydrocarbon (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen oxides (NOx). Vehicles will be required to meet emissions standards established for the year the vehicle was manufactured.

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The 23 full-service stations do not make repairs, but some of the independent stations that conduct emissions testing also offer repairs. However, not all do, so please make sure you inquire at the station. NOTE: If your testing site does offer repairs, you are under no obligation to use their repair services. You may take your vehicle to an automotive service facility of your choice to have necessary repairs made.

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In accordance with House Bill (H.B.) 119, a motorist may receive up to three free tests within a 365-day period. The fourth test, and all thereafter, the motorist will be charged $18 for the test. Only one free passing test is permitted per 365-day period.

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Ohio EPA licenses repair shops and certifies repair technicians within the seven E-Check counties. Technicians are trained and certified in areas of emission diagnosis and repairs. The technicians must complete a high-quality training program developed by the Training Repair Industry Advisory Group (TRIAG) and Ohio EPA to become Ohio certified E-Check repair technicians. Licensed E-Check repair facilities must employ at least one certified E-Check repair technician and maintain the following equipment:

If a vehicle fails the test, the motorist will be given a complete list of all licensed repair stations in the area.

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Motorists are eligible to receive one of two types of waivers, depending on the results of repairs performed on failing vehicles. For information on these waivers, please go to our page on Waivers, Extensions and Exemptions.

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Automobile emissions testing is required in all or part of 33 states to help maintain the federal air quality standard. Areas that were in moderate nonattainment or worse for ozone in 1990 are included in Ohio’s E-Check program. These areas include the metropolitan statistical areas of Cleveland and Akron. These areas need to reduce ozone air pollution in order to maintain healthy air quality and to accommodate economic growth. E-Check complements industrial controls in these areas to maintain healthy air quality. Without E-Check, additional requirements could be imposed on industry, limiting the area’s ability to attract new jobs and broaden the tax base.

Ohio EPA does not have the authority to implement or require testing of vehicles registered outside the seven counties. Ohio’s legislators did not give Ohio EPA the authority to implement an automobile emissions testing program in all Ohio counties.

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It is true – an automobile manufactured in 2000 runs more cleanly than the new vehicles of 1970. Automobile manufacturers have complied with more stringent emissions standards set by the federal government each year. New emissions devices combined with unleaded fuel have improved auto emissions during the past 27 years. However, manufacturers still have no control over routine maintenance of a vehicle once it leaves a showroom.

From 1970 to 2000, U.S. population increased 35 percent and vehicle miles traveled increased 127 percent. Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) records indicate there were 5,201,307 registrations in 1970 compared to 11,740,513 registrations in 2000. Transportation sources are the most prevalent cause of volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, which combine with sunlight to create ground level ozone. Auto emissions can have adverse health effects on Ohio citizens.

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When the title of a vehicle is transferred and the new owner wishes to register that vehicle, a passing E-Check test may be required for registration. The vehicle then begins being tested biennially based on model year. In some cases, when a motorist purchases a used vehicle, an emissions test may be required in two successive years. For example, if a 2005 vehicle was purchased in 2012, the motorist would be required to provide a passing test certificate to register the vehicle. In 2013, the vehicle would be required to test again based on the odd model year testing schedule. If the passing test certificate from the 2012 test is more than 365 days old at the time of registration, the vehicle will be required to test again. If the test certificate from 2012 is still valid at the time of registration, the vehicle will not have to be tested in 2013.

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In accordance with the contract documents, the E-Check contractor is required to verify calibration of each test lane on a daily basis before system startup. The contractor is required to perform other daily, weekly, monthly and quarterly tests or calibrations to ensure the system is operating properly. In addition, the gas analyzer readings are compared regularly with others in the system to determine the uniformity of the test equipment and to ensure motorists receive a fair test regardless of the location of the test facility. Not only does Ohio EPA field staff regularly verify these calibration records, but they conduct field testing of lane equipment for proper operation.

Many failing vehicles experience inconsistent operating conditions due to intermittent failure of various emissions parts. The inconsistent operating condition of an engine will cause emissions readings to vary and may cause a vehicle to fail the E-Check tailpipe test one minute and pass several minutes later with no repairs having been performed between tests. A vehicle not fully warmed up may emit more pollutants than a vehicle operating at normal temperatures. In order to minimize problems associated with intermittent failures, Ohio EPA recommends motorists have routine maintenance items checked and operate the vehicles at least 15 minutes prior to being tested. 

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Many motorists believe that a vehicle which does not emit smoke and has an immaculate paint job is a well-maintained vehicle. Outward appearance of a vehicle is not an accurate indication of how well the vehicle’s engine has been or is maintained. The pollutants detected by the E-Check test are odorless, nearly colorless and therefore, undetectable by the naked eye. If a vehicle does not pass the E-Check test, the vehicle is not operating “cleanly” with regard to the harmful emissions. If all emissions repairs are made to a vehicle to bring that vehicle into compliance, the motorist generally experiences an improvement in gas mileage. Proper emissions repairs also lengthen vehicle life.

Regardless of age or mileage, vehicles that are maintained in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations have a better chance of passing the emissions test. Passing the E-Check test indicates that your vehicle’s emission control system is operating well, polluting less and consuming less gas.

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Additional questions about the Ohio E-Check Program?
Call 1-800-CAR-TEST or 1-614-644-3059.

What to bring to the test    

*Anyone can bring the vehicle in to be tested

Ohio title or registration: If your vehicle has Ohio license plates and is registered in an E-Check county the lane inspector may ask for the vehicle title or registration. However, your vehicle can be tested without these items if the vehicle is registered in an E-Check county. If you are moving into an E-Check county, please see the sections below. If you are in the process of purchasing a vehicle and the title is not in your name, a voucher is required to perform the test.

Money: In accordance with House Bill (H.B.) 119, a motorist may receive up to three free tests within a 365-day period.  With the fourth test, and all thereafter, the motorist will be charged $18. Only one free passing test is permitted within a 365-day period. Motorists wishing to obtain a duplicate copy of a valid passing test record will need to bring the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to the testing station.

30-day temporary tag: If your vehicle has a 30-day temporary tag, you must present one of the following documents at the time of the test:

• Ohio title
• Ohio memorandum of title
• Ohio lease agreement with the VIN and your Ohio address listed on it
• Ohio temporary registration

Leased Vehicles: Lease holders must bring the Ohio lease agreement with the VIN and your Ohio address listed on it.

• The owner of the vehicle must go to the title bureau and request the VIN verification inspection only.  The owner will pay $3.50 for the inspection.
  • After the VIN inspection has been completed, the owner will take the vehicle to an E-Check station for testing. The owner will need to present the VIN Inspection Certificate to receive a free test. If the VIN Inspection Certificate is not presented, one of the following must be presented:
    • Ohio title
    • Ohio memorandum of title
    • Ohio lease agreement with the VIN your Ohio address listed on it
    • Ohio temporary registration
  • After passing the emissions test, the owner of the vehicle should return to the title bureau and obtain an Ohio title. The owner can also obtain the required registration from the registrar.
• Purchase a voucher for $18 at the station or from Envirotest Systems. After completing the registration process, the motorist will be eligible for a refund. For more information on the voucher process, click here.

*Please note that Ohio residents are only required to test if the current year corresponds with your vehicle’s normal testing year. Check here to determine if your vehicle needs a test.

• Purchase a voucher at the station or from Envirotest Systems.
  • The voucher must be presented at the time of the test.
  • After your vehicle has passed inspection, you may obtain your new registration and receive a refund for the cost of the inspection. For refund information contact Envirotest Systems Corporation at (330) 963-4464 x1234 or (800) 218-9247 x1234.
• New temporary registration showing your new address (30-day temporary tag)

No pets: With the exception of service animals in the company of persons with a disability, the test facilities are unable to accommodate animals, including pets. A service animal is defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as “any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.”

If you have unanswered questions at the station, please ask for the station manager.

Military

Active duty military personnel stationed outside Ohio and their spouses qualify for a military exemption. You will need to provide a copy of the vehicle registration, a copy of your military ID, and one of the following: a copy of current orders dated within three years of vehicle registration renewal date; or official documentation on military letterhead confirming your current duty and station location. Only vehicles owned or operated by military personnel stationed outside Ohio or their spouses are eligible. An Ohio E-Check Exemption/Extension Application form must be completed.

What is an exemption?

An exemption establishes compliance for a vehicle for one test cycle (two years) as long as ownership does not change. An exemption allows the motorist to register a vehicle. A motorist may apply for any exemption repeatedly throughout several testing cycles. New vehicles are exempt from testing for the first four model years.

If you have questions regarding exemptions, extensions, or waivers you may contact:

 Ohio EPA E-Check Program

 P.O. Box 1049 

 Columbus, OH 43216-1049 

 (614) 644-3059

OR

 Stop by or call the Ohio EPA Field Office