Does Maine Have Emissions Testing?
Maine maintains a vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance program in Cumberland County to improve air quality and comply with federal Clean Air Act requirements.
Understanding Maine Emissions Testing Requirements
The state's emissions testing program operates under the authority of Maine Revised Statutes Title 29-A, Section 1751 and became effective January 1, 1999. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) provides oversight and data collection support, while the Maine State Police enforces program provisions through licensed inspection stations.
The enhanced inspection program requires that all gasoline-powered motor vehicles registered in Cumberland County undergo annual testing that includes gas cap pressure testing (for 1974 and newer vehicles) and On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) inspection for 1996 and newer vehicles.
Which Counties in Maine Require Emissions Testing?
Only vehicles registered in Cumberland County are subject to emissions testing requirements.
Cumberland County Area
- Cumberland County (includes Portland, South Portland, Westbrook, Gorham, Scarborough, Cape Elizabeth, Falmouth, and surrounding communities)
Vehicles Subject to Emissions Testing
The Maine emissions inspection program applies specifically to gasoline-powered motor vehicles registered in Cumberland County.
Vehicle Age Requirements
According to Maine law, emissions testing requirements vary by model year:
- Vehicles manufactured before 1974: Exempt from all emissions testing
- Vehicles manufactured 1974-1995: Subject to gas cap pressure test only
- Vehicles manufactured 1996 and newer: Subject to both gas cap pressure test and OBD system testing
Vehicles Exempt From Emissions Testing
The following vehicle categories do not require emissions inspections:
- Diesel-powered vehicles
- Electric vehicles
- Motorcycles, mopeds, and motorized bicycles
- Vehicles manufactured before 1974
- Vehicles registered in the other 15 Maine counties
- Antique vehicles registered under special provisions
- Low-speed vehicles
- Farm tractors and qualifying farm trucks
- Experimental motor vehicles
- Island vehicles operated exclusively on islands with no state-maintained roads
Emissions Testing Costs and Fees in Maine
According to Maine Revised Statutes Title 29-A, Section 1751, inspection fees are capped by law and vary based on the type of inspection and vehicle model year.
| Fee Type | Maximum Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard Safety Inspection (15 non-emissions counties) | $12.50 |
| Enhanced Inspection - Pre-1996 Vehicles (Cumberland County) | $15.50 |
| Enhanced Inspection - 1996 and Newer (Cumberland County) | $18.50 |
Where to Get Emissions Testing in Maine
Emissions testing can be performed at qualified inspection stations located within Cumberland County or at certified stations capable of performing Class E emissions tests throughout the state.
Finding an Inspection Station
Use the Maine State Police Inspection Station Locator to find qualified stations. Additionally, the Maine DEP maintains a list of inspection stations that perform Class E emissions tests.
If Your Vehicle Fails Emissions Testing
Vehicles that fail any component of emissions testing must be repaired before receiving a valid inspection sticker. Maine law provides a 20-day period from the date of a failed inspection to complete necessary repairs and obtain a passing inspection.
Inspection Timing and Vehicle Registration in Maine
Maine law requires motor vehicles required to be registered in the state to have an annual inspection. Vehicle owners may have their vehicles inspected more frequently if desired.
Grace Period and Violations
Maine law provides a 30-day grace period for expired inspection stickers. During the first month immediately after expiration, law enforcement must issue a warning rather than a summons.
After the 30-day grace period expires:
- Operating with an expired inspection sticker is a traffic infraction
- The fine for failing to display a current/valid certificate of inspection is approximately $133-$148
- Law enforcement may issue a summons for vehicles with expired inspection stickers
Out-of-State Vehicle Provisions
Maine has established testing reciprocity provisions for vehicles from other states with EPA-approved Inspection and Maintenance programs.
Out-of-State Vehicles Temporarily in Maine
If your home state requires emissions testing for a vehicle currently located in Maine, testing may be performed at inspection stations that perform Class E emissions tests. Request a copy of the OBD form from the technician as proof for your home state.
OBD forms must be returned within 30 days to:
Maine Department of Environmental Protection
17 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0017
New Maine Residents
When establishing residency in Maine, you have 30 days to register your vehicle and convert your out-of-state registration and title.
If registering in Cumberland County:
- You must obtain an enhanced emissions inspection before registration
- For 1996 and newer vehicles, this includes OBD testing
- For 1974-1995 vehicles, this includes gas cap pressure testing only
Contact Information
Maine State Police
20 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Phone: (207) 624-8935 (routine questions or complaints)
Phone: (207) 624-8934 (inspection station and sticker questions)
Official Website: Maine State Police Motor Vehicle Inspections
Maine Department of Environmental Protection
Bureau of Air Quality
17 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Phone: (207) 287-7688
Official Website: Maine DEP Air Quality
Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles
29 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Phone: (207) 624-9000
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Official Website: Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles
