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The Vehicle Emissions Test Enforcement and Your License Plates
- Q. I've heard
the enforcement process of the emissions test has changed. How
does this affect me?
- A. The Illinois EPA and the Secretary
of State’s office are implementing a change in the enforcement
process of the testing program, as required by Public Act 94-0848.
Beginning in January 2008, vehicles must pass an emissions test
or otherwise comply with the Illinois Vehicle Emissions Inspection
Law of 2005 (625 ILCS 5/13C) (“Inspection Law”) before the vehicle’s
registration (license plates) can be renewed. Previously, the program
was enforced through the suspension of drivers’ licenses
and vehicles' registration.
Due to these changes, some vehicles will be required to comply
prior to the expiration date printed on the current Vehicle Inspection
Report or Emissions Test Certificate. Generally, vehicles will
still be tested every two years (even model year vehicles during
even calendar years, and odd model year vehicles during odd calendar
years).
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- Q. How will
I be notified when my vehicle needs to be tested?
- A. The Illinois EPA will send you
a yellow notice about four months prior to the expiration of the
vehicle's license plates. This will allow sufficient time to test
the vehicle and, if necessary, perform repairs.
The Secretary of State’s office will include an indication
on vehicle registration renewal notices whether an emissions test
is required before the vehicle's registration can be renewed.
Please note that while the vehicle may be tested up to four months
prior to license plate expiration, the plates may only be renewed
within three months of the expiration date.
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- Q. My license
plates have expired and cannot be renewed due to failure to comply
with the emissions law. How do I get my vehicle tested?
- A. If your license plates have expired,
you must obtain a 7-day permit from any full service Secretary
of State driver's license facility to legally operate the vehicle
to get it tested.
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- Q. My vehicle
has complied. How long will it take before I can purchase a renewal
sticker for my license plates?
- A. Once a vehicle complies with
the Inspection Law, the Secretary of State's office is automatically
notified electronically that the vehicle has complied; thereby
allowing a renewal sticker to be sold at a Secretary of State facility,
currency exchange or other authorized agent.
In rare instances, electronic communication between the test facility
and the Secretary of State's system may be interrupted. Therefore
it may be necessary to wait at least one business day before you
renew your registration.
Please note that while the vehicle may be tested up to four months
prior to license plate expiration, the plates may only be renewed
within three months of the expiration date.
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If you have any other questions, please visit
the Customer Service Representative at any of
the vehicle emissions testing stations, call
the Illinois EPA at (800) 635-2380,
or check this website for updates.
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