Program endedSources checked Oct 6, 2026
Does Washington require emissions testing?
Washington's emission check program ended on January 1, 2020, after 38 years. Vehicle owners no longer need an emissions test to renew their registration, but driving a vehicle with modified emissions equipment, or one that smokes, is still illegal.
Program changes
After 38 years, Washington's emission check program ended on January 1, 2020, so owners no longer need an emissions test before renewing their registration.
“After 38 years, Washington’s emission check program ended Jan. 1, 2020. We oversaw the now-retired vehicle emission testing program. With the end of the program, vehicle owners are no longer required to have their vehicle’s emissions tested before renewing their vehicle registration.”
The Legislature phased out testing in 2005, expecting the program would not be needed by 2020.
“In 2005, the Legislature phased out emission testing based on our calculation that the program wouldn't be needed by 2020.”
Registration and enforcement
Driving a vehicle with modified emissions equipment or a vehicle that smokes is still illegal, and tampering with emissions controls is illegal.
“Driving a vehicle with modified emissions equipment or a vehicle that smokes is still illegal in Washington.”
- “Tampering with emissions controls is illegal in Washington.”
Washington emissions testing questions
Does Washington require emissions testing?
No. Washington's emission check program ended on January 1, 2020, after 38 years.
Sources
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- Washington State Department of Ecology: Emission checks ended · checked Oct 6, 2026