Where to take your vehicle for emissions testing in Aurora

Aurora, Colorado requires emissions testing through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). You cannot test your vehicle at any shop you choose — it must be at a facility licensed by the state to perform the test.

The CDPHE maintains a searchable list of licensed testing stations on its website. You can filter by location to find stations near you in Aurora. Most are independent repair shops, some are dealerships, and a few are dedicated emissions-only facilities. Call ahead to confirm they have an opening and ask about their hours, since some stations close on certain days or have limited evening appointments.

Testing typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. You'll need to bring your vehicle registration and a valid ID. The tester will connect your vehicle to a machine that reads your onboard diagnostic system and measures tailpipe emissions.

Key Takeaways

  • Colorado requires emissions testing only for vehicles in certain counties, and Aurora (in Adams County) is one of them — check your registration to confirm your vehicle is subject to testing.
  • You must use a CDPHE-licensed testing station, which you can find through the state's online directory filtered by your location.
  • Testing costs vary by station but typically range from $20 to $40, and the test itself takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
  • Your vehicle must pass the test before you can renew your registration, and results are reported directly to the state.
  • If your vehicle fails, you have options to repair it and retest, or in some cases request a waiver if repairs cost more than a certain amount.

When Aurora emissions testing is required

Not every vehicle in Aurora needs emissions testing. The requirement depends on your vehicle's age, type, and registration history. Vehicles registered in Adams County (where Aurora is located) are subject to testing if they are model year 1975 or newer and have been registered in Colorado for at least 12 months.

Diesel vehicles, motorcycles, and vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) over 14,000 pounds are exempt. New vehicles (current model year) are also exempt for their first four years of registration. When you renew your registration online or at the county clerk's office, the system will tell you whether testing is required for your vehicle.

Testing is required every two years, timed to your registration renewal. You must complete the test before your registration expires, or you cannot legally drive the vehicle.

What happens if your vehicle fails the emissions test

A failure means your vehicle's emissions exceed Colorado's limits for one or more pollutants. The test report will specify which systems failed — typically the catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, fuel system, or engine control module.

You have two paths forward. The first is to repair the vehicle and retest at any licensed station. There is no limit on how many times you can retest, and you can use a different station if you prefer. The second path is to request a repair cost waiver if the estimated repair cost exceeds a threshold set by the state (currently $700 for most vehicles). To request a waiver, you submit the failed test report and a repair estimate from a shop to the CDPHE. If approved, you can renew your registration without passing the test.

Keep in mind that a waiver is not a permanent fix — you will still need to pass the test at your next renewal cycle, or request another waiver if repairs remain unaffordable.

Testing costs and what to bring

Testing fees vary by station and range from about $20 to $40. Some stations charge the same for a retest; others offer a reduced retest fee if you return within a certain window. Ask about the retest policy when you call to schedule.

Bring your vehicle registration and a valid photo ID. Your vehicle should be in drivable condition — the tester needs to connect to your onboard diagnostic port and may need to rev the engine slightly during the test. If your check engine light is on, the vehicle may fail automatically, so address that before testing if possible.

The testing station reports results directly to the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles. You do not need to submit anything yourself. If you pass, your registration can be renewed when ready. If you fail, you receive a detailed report showing which emissions standards were not met.

How to find a testing station and schedule an appointment

Visit the CDPHE's licensed emissions testing station directory at cdphe.colorado.gov. Use the search tool to filter by city (Aurora) or zip code. The listing shows each station's address, phone number, and hours of operation.

Call the station directly to confirm they are currently accepting tests and to ask about wait times. Some stations get busy during renewal season (the months before registration important date) and may have a several-week wait. Others can fit you in within a few days. If one station is booked, try another — there is no requirement to use a specific one.

Many stations do not take online reservations, so be prepared to call. Have your vehicle's year, make, and model ready when you call, as some stations ask for this information to confirm they can test your vehicle.

Retesting after a repair or failure

If your vehicle failed, you can retest at any licensed station once you have made repairs. There is no waiting period between a failure and a retest. Some shops that perform repairs will also do the retest on-site; others will direct you to a separate testing station.

When you retest, bring the original failed test report if you have it — some stations like to see it for their records, though it is not required. The retest follows the same process as the initial test and takes the same amount of time. Results are reported to the state when ready.

If you retest and pass, your registration can be renewed right away. If you retest and fail again, you can request a repair cost waiver or continue making repairs and retesting. There is no limit on retests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I test my vehicle before my registration expires?

Yes. You can test up to 90 days before your registration expires. This gives you time to repair and retest if needed before your renewal important date. Testing early is a good strategy if your registration expires during a busy season.

What if I move out of Adams County after I test?

If you move to a county that does not require emissions testing, you will not need to test at your next renewal. If you move to another county that does require testing, you will need to test there instead. Your registration renewal notice will tell you what is required for your new location.

Do I need an emissions test to sell my vehicle in Aurora?

No. Colorado does not require a passing emissions test to sell a used vehicle. However, the buyer will need to pass an emissions test when they register the vehicle in their name if testing is required for that vehicle in their county.

What if the testing station says my vehicle cannot be tested?

This is rare but can happen if your vehicle has a non-functional onboard diagnostic system or other issues that prevent connection to the test equipment. Ask the station for a written statement explaining why they cannot test. Contact the CDPHE to discuss your options, which may include requesting a waiver or finding a different station.

How long does a passed emissions test remain valid?

A passing test is valid for your current registration period. When you renew your registration in two years, you will need to test again. The test result itself does not expire, but the requirement to test returns at each renewal.