Do I Need an Inspection To Renew My Tags in Illinois?
Yes, emissions testing is required to renew vehicle registration in specific counties in Illinois, while safety inspections are not mandated for most passenger vehicles.
Emissions testing applies to vehicles registered in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties, as well as portions of Grundy, Kendall, Madison, Monroe, and St. Clair Counties. Most 1996 and newer gasoline-powered passenger vehicles are subject to emissions inspections after they are four years old.
After passing the required emissions test, renewals can be completed online, by mail, or in person at Secretary of State facilities, currency exchanges, or participating banks. Illinois uses metal license plates with registration stickers displayed on the rear plate. The colored sticker shows the month and year the registration expires.
Exemptions and Special Circumstances
Certain vehicle types are exempt from emissions testing requirements under the Vehicle Emissions Inspection Law:
- Diesel-powered vehicles
- Electric vehicles powered exclusively by electricity
- Vehicles with a model year of 1967 or older
- Motorcycles, motor-driven cycles, and motorized pedal cycles
- Vehicles less than four model years old
- Certain hybrid vehicles
Vehicles registered outside the designated testing counties are not subject to emissions testing requirements for registration renewal.
Contact Information for Tag Services
Illinois Secretary of State – Vehicle Services
Michael J. Howlett Building
501 S. Second Street, Room 312, Springfield, IL 62756
Phone: (217) 785-3000
Official Website: Illinois Secretary of State Vehicle Services
