Statewide programSources checked Oct 6, 2026
Massachusetts emissions testing rules
Massachusetts Vehicle Check combines a yearly safety inspection and emissions test for every registered vehicle at about 1,800 licensed stations. Model year 2009 and newer cars, trucks and SUVs get an OBD test, and most inspections cost $35.
Where testing is required
The program is statewide, run through about 1,800 licensed inspection stations.
“The Massachusetts Vehicle Check program is the vehicle emissions testing and safety inspection program for the Commonwealth. You can get an inspection at any of the 1,800 licensed inspection stations in Massachusetts”
Which vehicles are tested
Vehicles with on-board diagnostics that are less than 15 years old must pass a yearly emissions test.
“Vehicles with onboard diagnostic systems that are less than 15 years old must pass an annual emissions test.”
How often
Every vehicle registered in Massachusetts must pass an inspection every year; a newly purchased vehicle must be inspected within 7 days of registration.
“All vehicles registered in Massachusetts must pass a yearly vehicle inspection.”
- “Newly purchased vehicles must be inspected within 7 days of registration”
What it costs
Inspections cost $35 for most vehicles; stations can charge more for a commercial inspection.
“Inspections cost $35 for most vehicles. Inspection stations can charge more for commercial inspection.”
What the test checks
Model year 2009 and newer passenger cars, trucks and SUVs, and 2009 and newer light-duty diesels, get an On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) test.
“Model years 2009 and newer passenger cars, trucks and SUVs”
- “Model years 2009 and newer light-duty diesel vehicles (with a Gross Vehicle Weight”
Failing the test and waivers
A vehicle repaired by a Registered Emissions Repair Technician that still fails its retest may qualify for a one-year emissions waiver.
“If your vehicle is repaired by a Registered Emissions Repair Technician and it fails its re-test, it may qualify for a one-year emissions Waiver .”
Massachusetts emissions testing questions
Does Massachusetts require emissions testing?
Yes. Statewide program. The program is statewide, run through about 1,800 licensed inspection stations.
Which vehicles need an emissions test in Massachusetts?
Vehicles with on-board diagnostics that are less than 15 years old must pass a yearly emissions test.
How often is the emissions test in Massachusetts?
Every vehicle registered in Massachusetts must pass an inspection every year; a newly purchased vehicle must be inspected within 7 days of registration.
How much does an emissions test cost in Massachusetts?
Inspections cost $35 for most vehicles; stations can charge more for a commercial 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.
- Mass.gov: Vehicle inspections · checked Oct 6, 2026
- Massachusetts RMV: Vehicle inspection FAQs (PDF) · checked Oct 6, 2026