What Smog Check Is and Why Reno Requires It

Smog Check in Reno is an emissions test that measures whether your vehicle's exhaust meets Nevada's air quality standards. The Washoe County area, which includes Reno, is designated as a nonattainment area for ozone pollution, meaning the air quality does not consistently meet federal standards. Because of this designation, vehicles registered in Washoe County must pass an emissions test before you can renew your registration.

The test itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes and costs between $35 and $50 depending on the testing station. A technician will connect your vehicle to a machine that reads your emissions output. If your vehicle passes, you receive a certificate that you present when you renew your registration with the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles. If it fails, you have options for repair and retesting.

Key Takeaways

  • Washoe County vehicles must pass a smog check before registration renewal because the area does not meet federal air quality standards.
  • The test costs $35 to $50 and takes 10 to 15 minutes at a licensed testing station.
  • You can find testing stations through the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection website or by calling your local DMV office.
  • If your vehicle fails, you have 30 days to repair it and retest at no additional cost at the same station.
  • Vehicles older than 1975 and some electric or hybrid vehicles are exempt from the requirement.

Who Needs a Smog Check in Reno

Not every vehicle in Reno requires a smog check. Your vehicle must pass the test if it is registered in Washoe County and is model year 1975 or newer. The requirement applies whether you are renewing an existing registration or registering a vehicle in the county for the first time.

Some vehicles are exempt. These include electric vehicles, vehicles powered entirely by hydrogen fuel cells, and certain hybrid vehicles that meet specific emissions standards. Diesel vehicles registered for over 14,000 pounds also follow different testing rules. If you are unsure whether your vehicle is exempt, the testing station can tell you when you call or visit.

Finding a Testing Station and What to Bring

Licensed smog check stations are scattered throughout Reno and the surrounding Washoe County area. You can find a current list on the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection website, or you can call the Washoe County DMV office at (775) 684-4687 and ask for nearby stations. Many independent repair shops and some chain automotive retailers perform smog checks.

Bring your vehicle registration or proof of ownership and a valid photo ID. The technician will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is on your registration or on the dashboard at the base of the windshield on the driver's side. You do not need an appointment at most stations, but calling ahead can save you a wait, especially during peak renewal periods.

What Happens During the Test

The technician will visually inspect your vehicle's emissions control equipment to make sure nothing is obviously disconnected or missing. Then they will connect a probe to your vehicle's tailpipe and run the test while the engine is running. The machine measures the levels of nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and other pollutants in your exhaust.

The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will receive a printed certificate when ready if you pass. The certificate is valid for 90 days, so you can renew your registration anytime within that window. If your vehicle fails, the technician will give you a report showing which emissions exceeded the limit.

What to Do If Your Vehicle Fails

A failed smog check does not mean you cannot drive your vehicle or that you must scrap it. You have 30 days from the test date to repair the problem and retest. The most common failures are related to the check engine light, a faulty oxygen sensor, or a loose gas cap — all of which are fixable.

You can take your vehicle to any repair shop, not just the one that tested it. Many shops can diagnose the problem based on the failure report. Once you have made repairs, return to any licensed testing station for a retest. The retest is free if you return to the same station within 30 days. If you go to a different station or wait longer than 30 days, you will pay the full testing fee again.

Connecting Your Smog Check to Registration Renewal

Once you have a passing smog check certificate, you can renew your vehicle registration with the Nevada DMV. You can renew online at dmvnv.com, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. If you renew online or by mail, you will need to upload or mail a copy of your smog check certificate along with your renewal form.

Your registration renewal notice will arrive in the mail about 30 days before your current registration expires. The notice will tell you whether a smog check is required for your vehicle. If it is, do not wait until the last day — testing stations can get busy, and you want time to repair and retest if needed.

Exemptions and Special Cases

Vehicles model year 1975 and older are exempt from smog check requirements in Washoe County. All-electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are also exempt. Some hybrid vehicles that meet California's Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) standards or better are exempt, though this depends on the specific model and year.

If you have recently moved to Washoe County from another state or county, you will need a smog check before you can register your vehicle locally, even if it did not require one where you came from. Vehicles registered outside Washoe County do not need a smog check for that registration, but they will need one if you later transfer the registration to Washoe County.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my registration without a smog check if I fail the test?

No. You must have a passing smog check certificate to renew your registration in Washoe County. If your vehicle fails, you have 30 days to repair it and retest. If you cannot repair it in time, you cannot legally renew your registration until you pass.

What if my check engine light is on?

A check engine light usually means your vehicle will fail the smog check. The light indicates a problem with your emissions system. You should have the vehicle scanned to find out what the problem is before you go for testing. Many repair shops will scan it for free or for a small fee.

How long is a smog check certificate valid?

A passing smog check certificate is valid for 90 days from the test date. You can renew your registration anytime within that window. If the certificate expires before you renew, you will need to take another smog check test.

Do I need a smog check if I am registering a vehicle I just bought?

Yes, if you are registering it in Washoe County and it is model year 1975 or newer. You will need a smog check certificate before the DMV will process your registration. Plan for this when you buy a vehicle, especially if you are buying from out of state.

What if I move out of Washoe County?

Once you register your vehicle outside Washoe County, you will no longer need smog checks for that vehicle in your new location — unless your new county also requires them. Check with your new state or county's DMV to find out what emissions testing, if any, is required there.