While Maryland Vehicle Emissions testing can be a little frustrating due to the fees, meeting the due date, and taking the time out of your day to get it done, it is beneficial to our environment. Automobiles are one of the biggest pollutants on Earth, but Maryland Emissions Testing Program is making sure your vehicle is properly maintained, which in turn decreases the amount of pollution your vehicle will emit. It has been proven that by having required emissions testing, the amount of pollution to Earth’s air and water has decreased.
What Does The Test Involve?
On-Board Diagnostic test (for 1996 or newer cars)
Throughout the years, emissions testing have gotten easier. With improved technology, it is no longer needed to test your vehicles exhaust. The vehicle inspector will connect to the computer under the dashboard to scan for any malfunctions. Vehicles with any illuminated lights on the dashboard, such as check engine light, will automatically fail. This test takes less than 5 minutes.
Treadmill Test (for 1984 to 1995 models)
The vehicle will be tested on a treadmill to collect and analyze the exhaust. Your car will be tested on a variety of operations, including acceleration, deceleration, cruising and idle. This test will also take less than 5 minutes.
Idle Test (for cars 1977 to 1984)
Because the vehicle design is much different than newer cars, these cars will be test while the engine is idle.
Gas Cap Test
All cars are test to see if there are any vapor leaks. The test is done by placing the cap on an adapter that will pressurize air to be sure there is no leakage.
What Else Do I Need To Know?
• You will know if your car needs to be testing by receiving a notice in the mail from the MVA. You will have about 8 weeks to get the test done before having to pay a $15 fine for every month you are late. The test itself only costs $14. Be sure to bring the notice with you when you go for the test.
• When you arrive to a testing station, do not turn your car off.
• The inspector will first look the vehicle over for any leaks, excessive smoke, worn tires, and any dashboard warning lights.
• After the test, the inspector will give you a certificate with the results. If your vehicle passed, you are finished. The certificate will say when you will need another emissions test.
• If your vehicle failed, the certificate will indicate what is prevented your car from passing. You may talk with a station representative for more information on the repairs needed and for a list of Maryland Certified Emissions Repair Facilities. You will need to get your vehicle retested, but the first retest is free.
• If you are unable to meet the testing deadline, you may request an extension. Information for doing so will be provided on your notice.
Where Can I Get My Vehicle Tested In Maryland?
Maryland has many locations you can get your car tested. The hours of operation for VEIP stations are:
Monday, Thursday, Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Wednesday: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday: 7:00 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The following are a few of the VEIP locations:
Baltimore County
11510 Cronridge Drive
Owings Mills, MD 21117
Prince George’s County, South
7213 Old Alexandria Ferry Road
Clinton, MD 20735
Queen Anne’s County
230 Hess Road
Grasonville, MD 21638
Anne Arundel County, North
721 E. Ordnance Road
Curtis Bay, MD 21226 (Glen Burnie)
Calvert County
1035 Prince Frederick Blvd.
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
Your notice will have all of Maryland’s locations provided. You can also visit the Maryland MVA website at www.marylandmva.com.
www.marylandmva.com
