In order to pass emissions testing, your catalytic converter must also be accompanied by a proof of ownership card and meet the following standards:

It must be present and in working condition

It must be properly connected

It must not be missing any parts or disconnected in any manner

You’ll also want to hold onto the sales receipt and any proof of repairs in case you need to present them at the time of inspection.

In addition to Oklahoma’s state regulations, there are guidelines concerning the replacement of new catalytic converters at the federal level, including:

It must be installed in the same location as the original converter

It must be the same type as the original converter

It must be the correct model for your vehicle

It must be correctly installed

Failing to meet these requirements in your state could result in unwanted penalties.

Penalties for driving without a catalytic converter

So, what exactly are the consequences of driving without a catalytic converter? Given that doing so in the Sooner State is illegal, you could face fines up to $2,500 if you’re caught on the road without one.

You also won't be able to pass emissions testing when it comes time for your car's inspection, which could result in additional fines.

Keep in mind that driving without your cat-con is still illegal even if it was stolen from you. Your car will still run normally without one—so to make sure you’re not caught high and dry, check out these tips below on keeping your catalytic converter safe.

MORE:

Oklahoma car insurance laws

Why are catalytic converters being stolen?

In May of 2022, Oklahoma state lawmakers

passed a bill

making catalytic converter theft a felony charge, in response to rising crime rates across the state. So how did this become such a problem?

Platinum, rhodium, and palladium are the primary metals in catalytic converters. These metals make the oxidation process of carbon monoxide possible and help convert toxic gasses into less harmful byproducts.

They’re also worth a lot of money—and they can sell for up to $1,500 or more with the right buyer. And because catalytic converters are easy to access under your vehicle, they’re also easy to steal.

How to keep your catalytic converter safe

Now that you’re familiar with Oklahoma’s catalytic converter laws, here’s what you can do to keep your cat-con safe from theft:

Purchase an anti-theft device. There are tons of anti-theft devices on the market—from simple straps to metal cages—to fit a range of budgets and safety needs. Whether you buy a cheap lock or splurge on an alarm, protecting your catalytic converter can save you from having to front thousands should it get stolen.

Pick your parking carefully. Parking on a well-lit, highly trafficked street can help naturally deter thefts from targeting your car’s cat-con.

Etch your license plate or VIN into your catalytic converter. Engraving these key identification codes into your cat-con will make it harder to resell on a black market, as the system will be traceable. If a would-be thief sees your numbers engraved on the converter, they’ll leave it alone.

MORE: How to pass emissions testing

Is catalytic converter theft covered by insurance?

The good news is, if you have

comprehensive coverage

on your vehicle, you are protected from theft and vandalism, so you’re covered if your catalytic converter is stolen! You may be stuck paying $2,000 out-of-pocket without comprehensive coverage if you find yours missing.

If you’re looking to upgrade your policy and save money in the process, we’ve got even more good news to share:

Jerry

can help you switch your policy in minutes, right on your phone.

Keep your car safe with the best insurance

If you want affordable quotes on comprehensive coverage fast, go to

Jerry

. The first-ever

super app

for car owners, Jerry lets you shop cheap and competitive quotes from name-brand insurance providers in seconds.

All you need to do is download the app, answer a few questions, and let Jerry do the rest: we’ll collect

car insurance

quotes for you, help you switch your policy, and will even send you quotes each time you’re up for renewal, so you can continue paying the

lowest rate

It’s this level of service that has earned Jerry the no. 1 rating for car insurance apps in the country!

“I signed up for a new policy with
Jerry’s
help. I ended up saving $236 a month after my switch. Thank you Jerry!” —Adelaide C.

Compare insurance quotes from 50+ carriers with Jerry in under 45 seconds

Find Savings!

4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars

4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ drivers

FAQs

Are catalytic converters required by law?

Yes. In Oklahoma (as in most states), you’re legally required to have a catalytic converter—and driving without one is a criminal offense. If you’re caught without a catalytic converter—even if yours was stolen—you can be fined up to $2,500.

Are catalytic converters being stolen?

Yes. Catalytic converter theft is a rising problem across the country, as these parts contain valuable metals resellable for hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars. In Oklahoma, it’s a felony offense to steal a catalytic converter.

Estimate your repair costs for free with GarageGuard™

Simplify your car maintenance with Jerry.

Try GarageGuard™