What's New I Testing Requirements I Testing Elements I FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does southeastern Wisconsin need a vehicle inspection program?

Isn't most of our pollution coming from other areas?

How much pollution comes from vehicles?

Isn't ozone important to protect the earth from ultraviolet rays?

How is ground level ozone harmful?

How do vehicle emission inspections reduce pollution?

What is the vehicle inspection procedure?

Will your vehicle pass the inspection?

What if your vehicle fails the inspection?

What if I need more time to have my vehicle repaired and retested?

Can I renew my license plate stickers at all emission test locations?

Do I have to get out of my vehicle?

Are you buying a used vehicle?

Are paid voluntary tests available?

Why does southeastern Wisconsin need a vehicle inspection program?
Southeastern Wisconsin has an air quality problem that requires a multi-faceted approach to solve. In order to achieve the 1-hour air quality standard, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has developed a plan (State Implementation Plan) that requires a 24% reduction in hydrocarbon (HC) emissions in the Milwaukee area. The Wisconsin Vehicle Inspection Program (WIVIP) contributes about one-fourth of that 24% reduction. So far, no other control strategies have been found that could replace the WIVIP test.

Isn't most of our pollution coming from other areas?
Studies are demonstrating that the air pollution from one area where it is produced is likely being transported to another with the prevailing winds. All four states bordering Lake Michigan are working together to find solutions to improve air quality throughout the region.

How much pollution comes from vehicles?
Unlike other pollutants, ozone is not emitted directly into the air. Rather, it is formed in the presence of sunlight through chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOX) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In southeastern Wisconsin, vehicles emit about one-third of these ozone-forming pollutants - which the rest emitted by industry and other smaller sources, such as lawn and garden equipment, paints, motorboats, and some businesses.

Isn't ozone important to protect the earth from ultraviolet rays?
While ozone in the upper atmosphere is beneficial to people by shielding the earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation given off by the sun, high concentrations of ozone at ground level are a major health and environmental concern.

How is ground level ozone harmful?
Ozone pollution poses a significant health risk, especially for the elderly, young children, and those with respiratory difficulties. In addition, high levels of ozone can damage crops and forests.

How do vehicle emission inspections reduce pollution?
The vehicle inspection program identifies vehicles with high hydrocarbon and/or carbon monoxide levels so repairs can be made to reduce harmful emissions.

What is the vehicle inspection procedure?
All vehicles will receive an OBD inspection, beginning July 1, 2008.  The inspection consists of verifying that the vehicle's check engine light is working and communicating with your vehicle's on-board computer.  The total testing time should take less than 15 minutes, excluding waiting time.

Will your vehicle pass the inspection?
A well-maintained vehicle should continue to pass the inspection. Nine out of ten vehicles pass the inspection.

What if your vehicle fails the inspection?
If your vehicle fails, it will need to be repaired and brought back for reinspection. Motorists are provided information to help the repair technician diagnose the cause of the failure. Motorists are also given information so they can review the track records of repair facilities to help them decide on where to take their vehicle for repairs. Vehicles are eligible for a maximum of three tests. Additional tests may be purchased at any emission facility from the station manager for a $15 fee.

What if I need more time to have my vehicle repaired and retested?

Registration Renewal Tests:  If your license plates are expiring, you would need to purchase a 30-day temporary license plate.  They can be purchased either by mail, or in person at DMV Customer Service Centers or Wisconsin Vehicle Inspection Stations (in the office area).  There is a $3 charge for the temporary plates and an additional counter fee if purchased at either a DMV center or test station.  A vehicle may be eligible for up to 3 temporary plates and some restrictions apply.

Change of Ownership Tests:  If you recently purchased the vehicle and are nearing the end of the 45 day testing window, you would  need to call the following number for a one-time 30 day extension: 414-266-1080 or 1-800-242-7510. There is no charge for this service.  The 30-day extension can not be issued at the vehicle inspection station.

Can I renew my license plate stickers at all emission test locations?
After meeting emission-testing requirements, most motorists can now purchase their vehicle license plate stickers at all emission-testing locations. There is a $10 fee for this registration renewal service and some restrictions apply. Only cash or checks are accepted. Please ask the emission inspector for details.

Do I have to get out of my vehicle?
Generally, all passengers and pets will have to exit the vehicle while the inspector is driving it. If it is necessary for you to stay in the vehicle during the inspection, you may move out of the driver's position to another seat in the car while the inspector tests your vehicle. If you have a specific concern, please see the station manager.

Are you buying a used vehicle?
Vehicles more than five model years old are required to be inspected upon change of ownership. Motorists receive notice of the emission-testing requirement after they have titled and registered the vehicle. Failure to complete the emission requirement within the allotted 45-day time period will result in the suspension of the newly purchased vehicle's registration.

Are paid voluntary tests available?
If you would like to bring a vehicle in for an inspection outside of the registration renewal period or before you purchase the vehicle, you may do so. There is a $15 fee for this voluntary test. Please park your vehicle in the parking lot, and see the station manager before proceeding to the testing area.