EPA Considers Washington's Latest Tune-Up to Vehicle Emissions Testing
Published Date: 11/5/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The EPA wants to approve updates to Washington, DC’s vehicle emissions check program to keep the air cleaner and meet new ozone pollution rules. This affects drivers in DC and nearby areas who’ll see continued or improved emissions testing to help fight smog. Comments on this plan are open until December 7, 2026, with no new costs announced yet.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Continued vehicle emissions testing rules
The EPA is proposing to approve updates to Washington, DC's Enhanced inspection and maintenance (I/M) program that keep in place emissions testing requirements. Most passenger vehicles are tested biennially, commercial passenger vehicles (e.g., taxis, limousines) are tested annually, and school buses are tested biannually; testing applies to model year 1968 and newer up to 26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). New vehicles are exempt for the first four model years, and vehicles over 26,000 lbs, diesel-powered vehicles, and pre-1968 vehicles are exempt; a vehicle must pass inspection or be granted a waiver before it can be registered in the District.
Approval that DC's I/M meets Basic performance standard
DC submitted a June 7, 2024 SIP revision and a Performance Standard Modeling (PSM) certification using MOVES3.1 showing its existing Enhanced I/M program meets or exceeds the Basic I/M performance standard for a Moderate 2015 ozone nonattainment area. Modeling results in the SIP show lower onroad summer-day emissions for DC's program than the model Basic I/M program (for example, NOX: 3.36 vs. 3.48 tons; VOC: 2.48 vs. 2.58 tons for the 2023 evaluation year).
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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