Required in some areasSources checked Oct 7, 2026
Louisiana emissions testing rules
Louisiana tests emissions only in the five-parish Baton Rouge area, as part of the yearly safety inspection for gasoline vehicles of 10,000 pounds GVWR or less. The emissions inspection costs $18, and a free retest is available within 30 days at the original station.
Where testing is required
Only vehicles registered in Ascension, East Baton Rouge, Iberville, Livingston and West Baton Rouge parishes are covered.
“Only vehicles registered in Ascension, East Baton Rouge, Iberville, Livingston, and West Baton Rouge parishes are subject to this rule.”
Which vehicles are tested
The test is part of the annual safety inspection for gasoline vehicles of 10,000 pounds GVWR or less, and includes an OBD II check.
“The emissions testing, which began on January 1, 2000, is performed as a part of annual safety inspections on vehicles that are gasoline-fueled and have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000 pounds or less.”
- “In addition to the above requirements, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD II) system testing was implemented in July 2002.”
What it costs
The emissions inspection costs $18 per vehicle.
“The price of the vehicle emissions inspection is $18 per vehicle.”
What the test checks
The inspection covers safety equipment, a visual anti-tampering check and a gas cap test; OBD II testing was added in July 2002.
“Currently, the annual safety and emissions inspection consists of inspecting the vehicle's safety equipment, a visual anti-tampering check of the emissions system, and a gas cap integrity test.”
- “On-Board Diagnostics (OBD II) system testing was implemented in July 2002.”
Failing the test and waivers
A failing vehicle gets an orange temporary sticker valid for 30 days, with one free retest at the original station in that time.
“The orange temporary sticker is valid for thirty (30) days, during which time you are entitled to one (1) free retest at the original MVI station.”
Louisiana emissions testing questions
Does Louisiana require emissions testing?
Yes. Required in some areas. Only vehicles registered in Ascension, East Baton Rouge, Iberville, Livingston and West Baton Rouge parishes are covered.
Which vehicles need an emissions test in Louisiana?
The test is part of the annual safety inspection for gasoline vehicles of 10,000 pounds GVWR or less, and includes an OBD II check.
How much does an emissions test cost in Louisiana?
The emissions inspection costs $18 per vehicle.
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.
- Louisiana DEQ: Motor Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance · checked Oct 7, 2026
- Louisiana DEQ: Vehicle inspection FAQ · checked Oct 6, 2026