If you live in Nevada or plan to move here, vehicle emissions testing—commonly known as a smog check—is likely something you’ll come across during registration or renewal. Designed to reduce air pollution and ensure cars meet environmental standards, Nevada’s smog check program is getting a few critical updates in 2025.
So, what’s changing in the new year? Who do these changes affect? And what should drivers expect when it’s time for testing? In this blog post, we’ll break down the Nevada Smog Check 2025 updates in a simple, helpful way—especially for Clark County (Las Vegas) and Washoe County (Reno) drivers.
🛑 Understanding Nevada’s Emissions Program
Nevada Smog Check requires vehicle emissions testing to help improve and maintain air quality, particularly in areas with high population and traffic levels. That’s why Clark County and Washoe County are the primary regions where smog checks are mandatory.
Typically, emissions testing applies to:
- Gasoline vehicles newer than 1968
- Diesel vehicles under 14,000 lbs
- Most hybrid cars (depending on age)
Testing is usually required annually or every two years, depending on the vehicle’s age.
🔧 What’s New in 2025?
As part of Nevada’s push for cleaner air and compliance with federal air quality standards, the DMV and Nevada Department of Environmental Protection (NDEP) are rolling out several smog check changes in 2025. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Extended Exemptions for New Vehicles
If your car is in the model year 2022 or newer, you won’t need an emissions test until it is 4 years old—up from the previous 2-year exemption.
✅ Why this matters: You save money and time in your first years of ownership. If you’re buying a new car in 2025, you’re off the hook for smog checks until 2029.
2. Expanded Remote Testing Options
The state makes testing your car at home more manageable using OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) devices. These devices connect to your car’s port and report results online—for eligible vehicles, there is no need to visit a testing center.
✅ Why this matters: It’s fast, convenient, and perfect for tech-savvy drivers who prefer to handle things from home.
3. Tighter Emission Standards for Older Cars
Cars over 20 years old will face stricter emissions thresholds, targeting high-polluting models often lacking modern exhaust control systems.
✅ Why this matters: Owners of older vehicles might need to make repairs or upgrades to pass. If your car’s been a little smoky lately, now’s the time to look under the hood.
4. More Oversight for Smog Stations
In 2025, the state will perform more frequent inspections and audits of testing centers to eliminate fraud and ensure consistent, accurate testing.
✅ Why this matters: This helps maintain fairness across the board, so you’re getting a legit test—not an inflated bill or incorrect fail.
📍 Who Needs a Smog Check in Nevada?
If you’re living or registering a vehicle in Clark County (Las Vegas) or Washoe County (Reno), you must complete emissions testing as part of your annual or biennial registration.
You’ll be notified by the DMV when your test is due, but if you’re:
- Moving into the state
- Buying a used vehicle
- Renewing registration for a qualifying model year
… you’ll likely need a smog check.
🚫 Exempt Vehicles
Some vehicles are off the hook when it comes to emissions testing. In 2025, exemptions apply to:
- Vehicles model year 2022 or newer (first 4 years exempt)
- Electric vehicles (EVs)
- Hybrid cars (exempt for 5 years)
- Diesel vehicles over 14,000 lbs
- Classic/antique vehicles registered as such
- Motorcycles and mopeds
- Specially licensed alternative fuel vehicles
Always double-check with the Nevada DMV to make sure your car qualifies.
📄 What You’ll Need for Your Test
Before heading to a licensed emissions testing station—or setting up a remote test—make sure you have:
- The vehicle itself (obviously!)
- A valid driver’s license
- Your registration renewal notice (if available)
- Payment (usually between $20–$50)
- Your OBD device/account, if doing remote testing
🧪 What Does the Test Involve?
Depending on your vehicle’s age and fuel type, you’ll either receive the following:
- An OBD inspection (for 1996+ vehicles)
- A tailpipe emissions test (for older models)
- A visual inspection for smoke or engine tampering
- A gas cap pressure test
The process typically takes 15–20 minutes, and you’ll get your results right after the test.
❌ What If You Fail?
If your car fails the smog test, don’t panic—you’ll be given a diagnostic report. From there, you can:
- Get the necessary repairs at a licensed shop
- Return for a free retest (at most stations within a specific time)
Sometimes, you may qualify for a waiver if the repair costs exceed a certain threshold and your vehicle still can’t pass. You’ll need to show proof of repairs and work with the DMV for that process.
📆 When Should You Get It Done?
- New Residents: Must complete smog check, VIN inspection, and registration within 30 days of moving to Nevada
- Current Residents: Check your registration notice to see if this year requires a test
- Out-of-State Vehicle Buyers: A Smog check is required before registering your car in Nevada
🏁 Final Thoughts
The Nevada Smog Check 2025 updates reflect a strong push toward cleaner air and more efficient processes. Whether you’re a long-time Nevada driver or new to the state, staying up-to-date on emissions testing requirements is essential.
These changes:
- Reward drivers of newer, cleaner vehicles
- Make testing more convenient through remote options
- Crackdown on pollution from older cars
Following the updated guidelines will help Nevadans stay green, avoid fines, and keep their vehicles legally on the road.
