Georgia emissions testing rules

Testing applies to vehicles registered in 13 counties: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding and Rockdale. The other Georgia counties do not require it.

“For 2026 vehicle registration, if your vehicle is a 2002 – 2023 model year gasoline-powered car or light-duty truck (8,500 pounds gross vehicle weight rating or less) registered in Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding or Rockdale County, it must be emissions tested.”

• “The remaining Georgia counties do not require emissions testing.”
• “The 13 counties which currently have an I/M program”

For 2026 registrations, 2002 to 2023 gasoline cars and light-duty trucks of 8,500 pounds GVWR or less must be tested.

“For 2026 vehicle registration, if your vehicle is a 2002 – 2023 model year gasoline-powered car or light-duty truck (8,500 pounds gross vehicle weight rating or less)”

The test is due every year before the registration date, which is the owner's birthday.

“Your vehicle must be tested every year prior to its registration date (the vehicle owner’s birthday).”

A test costs up to $25, and each station posts its price on its emissions sign.

“An emissions inspection costs up to $25 and the fee is posted on the station’s emissions inspection sign.”

Exemptions include the three newest model years (2024 and newer for 2026) and vehicles 25 model years or older (2001 or older for 2026), diesels, motorcycles, RVs and motor homes. Seniors 65 or older may qualify for an exemption.

“The three most recent model year vehicles are exempt from emissions testing each year. For registration in 2026, this includes all 2024 and newer model year vehicles.”

• “Additionally, vehicles that are 25 model years or older are exempt from emissions testing. This includes 2001 or older model year vehicles for 2026 registration.”
• “Diesel vehicles do not require emissions testing for registration.”
• “Motorcycles, recreational vehicles (RVs), and motor homes do not require emissions testing for registration.”
• “Senior Exemption – Seniors 65 years old or older whose vehicle meet certain additional requirements may be eligible for a Senior Exemption.”

If you buy a used vehicle that will be registered in one of the 13 counties, a seller located inside the 13-county area must make sure it has a passing Georgia emissions inspection at the time of sale.

“If you buy a used vehicle that will be registered in a covered county,* sellers located within the 13-county testing area must ensure the vehicle has a passing Georgia vehicle emissions inspection at the time of sale.”

After moving into one of the 13 counties you generally must test and register within 30 days.

“Generally, you must have your vehicle tested and registered within 30 days after moving to one of the 13 covered counties.”