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Where do I need a smog check in Virginia?
I just moved to Virginia, and I’m still learning about the vehicle registration requirements. My old state didn’t do emissions testing, but I’ve heard about emissions and smog checks here. Where do I need to have these inspections done in Virginia?
Kathryn Mae Kurlychek · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
In certain parts of Virginia, some vehicles must pass a smog check along with emissions testing before receiving a valid registration.
Smog checks are required in the following Virginia counties:
- Arlington County
- Fairfax County
- Loudoun County
- Stafford County
- Prince William County
There are also a few cities that require it, which include:
- Alexandria
- Fairfax
- Falls Church
- Manassas or Manassas Park
If you live in and intend to register your vehicle in one of the above Virginia counties, you’ll likely be required to pass an annual smog check in order to legally drive on the roads.
Some vehicles, however, are exempt from smog checks—check out the list below to learn if you drive an exempt vehicle:
- Motorcycles
- Non-gasoline hybrid vehicles
- Clean fuel vehicles (such as CNG, LNG, and electric-powered vehicles)
- Gas-powered vehicles that weigh 10,000 lbs or more
- Gas-powered vehicles older than 25 years
- Diesel-powered vehicles older than 1997, that weigh 8,500 lbs or more
- Vehicles with an Antique registration
- New, first-time titled vehicles with a Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin
If you drive any of the above vehicles, you won’t be required to pass a smog check—even if you live in one of the aforementioned counties.
Emissions testing and smog checks aren’t the only requirements you’ll need to meet ito obtain a Virginia car registration. You’ll also need to show
valid proof of insurance
. Luckily, Jerry
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- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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