Statewide programSources checked Oct 6, 2026
Delaware emissions testing rules
Delaware's DMV inspects vehicles itself, at its four DMV facilities and with no inspection fee. The inspection covers safety and emissions, and you need a Vehicle Inspection Report to renew most registrations; owners in the first seven model years can renew without one.
Which vehicles are tested
1996 to 2008 gasoline cars and light trucks and 1997 to 2008 diesels up to 8500 pounds get an OBDII test, as does any vehicle up to 14,000 pounds built after 2008; older gasoline vehicles get a curb-idle and gas cap test.
“Gasoline-powered automobiles and light trucks from 1996 – 2008 along with diesel fuel vehicles 1997 – 2008 with a manufactured gross vehicle weight (MGVWR) of 8500 pounds, will receive a OBDII test to check the vehicles emissions standards. Additionally, any vehicle manufactured with a gross vehicle weight up to 14,000 pounds after 2008 will receive a OBDII test also to check the vehicles emissions standards.”
Exemptions
Owners renewing registrations of vehicles in their first seven model years can renew without an inspection.
“Owners renewing registrations of vehicles in the first seven model years can proceed to the nearest DMV registration renewal section to complete the registration process.”
Registration and enforcement
To renew, owners must show Delaware liability insurance and a Vehicle Inspection Report. An inspection can be done up to 90 days before the registration expires, and a $20.00 late fee applies after expiration.
“Owners are required to provide DMV with valid proof of Delaware liability insurance and a Vehicle Inspection Report for their vehicle to renew their registration.”
- “A vehicle inspection may occur up to 90 days before the registration expiration date.”
- “charges a $20.00 late fee in addition to the normal registration fee for all renewals performed after the registration expiration date of the vehicle”
New residents
Vehicles titled in Delaware for the first time usually must be inspected; the newest seven model years under 10,000 pounds may only need a VIN check.
“The newest seven model years of vehicles, weighing 10,000 pounds or less and being titled for the first time in Delaware, may only be required to have a vehicle identification number (VIN) verification.”
Where to get tested
The DMV does inspections at all four of its facilities, for no fee.
“The Division performs vehicle inspection at all four DMV facilities . The inspections are performed for no fee.”
Delaware emissions testing questions
Does Delaware require emissions testing?
Yes. Statewide program.
Which vehicles need an emissions test in Delaware?
1996 to 2008 gasoline cars and light trucks and 1997 to 2008 diesels up to 8500 pounds get an OBDII test, as does any vehicle up to 14,000 pounds built after 2008; older gasoline vehicles get a curb-idle and gas cap test.
Which vehicles are exempt in Delaware?
Owners renewing registrations of vehicles in their first seven model years can renew without an inspection.
Sources
Every quotation above is checked word for word against our saved copy of the page, on the date shown. Rules change; if a page has moved or says something different, tell us at the corrections page.
- Delaware DMV: Vehicle inspections · checked Oct 6, 2026