Emissions Inspection in Colorado: Requirements, Cost & Exemptions
Whether you're buying, selling, or renewing registration in Colorado, here's exactly what the emissions inspection program requires and what it costs.
Quick Reference
Is It Required?
Varies — check with state DMV
Emissions testing requirements vary widely by state. Some require statewide, some by county, some not at all.
Counties Affected
Varies by state
Many states only require testing in metropolitan or air-quality non-attainment areas.
Test Types
- OBD-II for 1996+ vehicles is the standard
- Visual inspection of emissions equipment
Cost & What to Expect
Typical cost: $10–$80 depending on state and test type
Some states fund testing publicly (free); most charge $15–$50 per test.
Exemptions
- Vehicles older than 25 years (classic)
- Vehicles in their first 1–2 model years
- Electric vehicles
- Motorcycles in some states
If Your Vehicle Fails
Some states offer income-based repair assistance
Check your state environmental agency for any low-income repair assistance programs.
Colorado Standout Rule
Colorado-Specific Facts for Emissions Inspection
Colorado Vehicle transfer fees and requirements
In Colorado, the title transfer fee is $7.2 and registration costs $50 - $100+ based on vehicle weight and age. Vehicle sales are subject to 2.9% state plus local taxes; ownership tax based on age. Colorado does not require notarization for private-party vehicle transfers. Emission testing is required in Colorado — verify the vehicle passes before completing the sale.
- Emissions testing required in Denver metro and northern Front Range
- Ownership tax calculated based on vehicle taxable value
- VIN verification required for out-of-state vehicles
Official Colorado bill of sale form
The official Colorado bill of sale form is DR 2173 (Bill of Sale for a Motor Vehicle). BillOfSaleNow generates a document that meets all Colorado requirements and can be used in place of the official form.
Colorado sales tax on vehicle purchases
Colorado has a 2.9% state sales tax rate. 2.9% state plus county/city taxes (total 3–10%). Private-party vehicle sales in Colorado are subject to sales tax. Sales tax applies; ownership tax also assessed based on vehicle age. The title transfer fee is $7.
Colorado bill of sale statistics
BillOfSaleNow has generated 1,683 bill of sale documents for Colorado transactions, with 45 generated this month alone. The most popular vehicle type is car.
More Colorado Vehicle Guides
- Out-of-State Buyer Vehicle in Colorado
- License Plate Transfer in Colorado
- Rebuilt Title Cars in Colorado
- Rental Vehicle Buyout in Colorado
- Repossession Redemption in Colorado
- Stolen Vehicle Recovery in Colorado
Each guide is written specifically for Colorado laws, agencies, and procedures. Bookmark for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is emissions inspection required in Colorado?
Varies — check with state DMV. Emissions testing requirements vary widely by state. Some require statewide, some by county, some not at all.
How often do I need an emissions test in Colorado?
Most testing states require annual or biennial inspection. Test schedule is usually tied to registration renewal cycles.
How much does an emissions inspection cost in Colorado?
$10–$80 depending on state and test type. Some states fund testing publicly (free); most charge $15–$50 per test.
Who is exempt from emissions testing in Colorado?
Exempt categories include: Vehicles older than 25 years (classic), Vehicles in their first 1–2 model years, Electric vehicles, and others. See full list on the official agency site.
What happens if my vehicle fails emissions in Colorado?
Some states offer income-based repair assistance. Check your state environmental agency for any low-income repair assistance programs.
Selling After Passing Inspection?
A compliant Colorado bill of sale lets you transfer ownership cleanly after your vehicle passes its inspection.
Generate Bill of SaleSource: State Environmental Protection Agency or DMV. Emissions rules change periodically — verify current requirements before scheduling a test.