Colorado Car Inspection
In Colorado, smog inspections are required in some counties when you buy a new car or update its registration information, but there is no statewide mandate.
Written by Tom Hindle
Reviewed by Carrie Adkins
Table of Contents
- CO car inspection requirements
- Where to get a car inspection in Colorado
- How often do you need a car inspection?
- Cheap car insurance
- FAQs
Load full table of contents
In some counties in Colorado, you have to get an emissions inspection when you register a new vehicle or renew your registration. However, there is no statewide mandate.
Cars manufactured before 1982 have to be inspected yearly for emissions. You are also required to obtain a VIN inspection report when you register a car from out of state.
The requirements for state and county inspections vary depending on vehicle and zip code, however.
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What are the vehicle inspection requirements in Colorado?
You’re required to get an emissions inspection when you register a new vehicle in the following counties:
- Boulder
- Denver
- Broomfield
- Douglas
- Jefferson
- Parts of Adams, Larimer, Weld, and Arapahoe
You also have to get an emissions report when you sell a car—and provide proof of a passed test before the deal goes through. You can find info about emissions inspections on
Colorado’s DMV website
.Additionally, all out-of-state cars that are registered in Colorado have to pass a simple one-time VIN inspection. You’ll also need to get your car inspected whenever you renew your registration.
Exceptions to the state requirements
There are a few exceptions to county inspection requirements. For example, the following cars are exempt from emissions tests:
- Electric vehicles
- Farm vehicles
- New vehicles
- Motorcycles
- Vehicles less than seven years old
- Vehicles manufactured before 1975
Where to get a car inspection in Colorado
There are lots of vehicle inspection locations dispersed around Colorado. Find the nearest one to you at
this link
. Note that you also might need to go to your local DMV to obtain paperwork or registration information. How often do you need a car inspection?
You’ll need an emissions inspection every time you sell your car. You’re also required to get a one-time VIN inspection when you register an out-of-state vehicle in Colorado.
Additionally, some counties require regular emissions tests, depending on the age of your vehicle.
Finding affordable car insurance
Once you’ve checked all of the boxes in terms of inspections, take a look at your car insurance. Chances are, you’re paying more than you should. You can change that by trying out car insurance comparison and broker app
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FAQs
Do I have to get an inspection before I sell my car?
Yes, if the car is more than seven years old. However, it might be a good idea to pay the small fee and get the car inspected, anyway. Your buyer will likely be a little more comfortable knowing they’re getting a functioning vehicle!
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