Required in some areasSources checked Oct 6, 2026
Wisconsin emissions testing rules
Wisconsin requires emissions tests for vehicles kept in seven southeastern counties: Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Washington and Waukesha. Model years 1996 and newer are covered, a test is due every other year before plate renewal and within 45 days of a purchase or a move into the state.
Where testing is required
Vehicles customarily kept in Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Washington or Waukesha county need an emissions test.
“Vehicles customarily kept in one of these seven southeastern Wisconsin counties require an emissions test: Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Washington and Waukesha.”
Which vehicles are tested
Model years 1996 to 2006 under 8,501 pounds (gasoline, natural gas or hybrid) and 2007 and newer up to 14,000 pounds (including diesel) are tested.
“Vehicle model years 1996 - 2006 with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) less than 8,501 lbs. (gasoline, Natural gas, or hybrid)”
- “Vehicle model years 2007 and newer with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) up to 14,000 lbs. (diesel, gasoline, natural gas, or hybrid)”
How often
A test is required every other year before plates can be renewed, and within 45 days of a purchase, a title change or a move into Wisconsin.
“Every other year before plates can be renewed”
- “When a vehicle is purchased and registered (within 45 days)”
- “New residents transferring vehicle to Wisconsin (test within 45 days)”
Where to get tested
Besides private testing facilities, the program runs two centralized facilities with self-service kiosks, open 24/7 for 2007 and newer vehicles.
“WIVIP Self Service Kiosks are open 24/7 and can test 2007 and newer vehicles.”
Wisconsin emissions testing questions
Does Wisconsin require emissions testing?
Yes. Required in some areas. Vehicles customarily kept in Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Washington or Waukesha county need an emissions test.
Which vehicles need an emissions test in Wisconsin?
Model years 1996 to 2006 under 8,501 pounds (gasoline, natural gas or hybrid) and 2007 and newer up to 14,000 pounds (including diesel) are tested.
How often is the emissions test in Wisconsin?
A test is required every other year before plates can be renewed, and within 45 days of a purchase, a title change or a move into Wisconsin.
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.
- Wisconsin DMV: Emission test · checked Oct 6, 2026