Program History

The Illinois EPA’s vehicle emissions inspection program plays a crucial role in improving air quality and public health in Illinois

Origins

The program was established in response to the federal Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. §7401), which mandates vehicle emissions inspection programs in urban areas that do not meet National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for ozone. In 1983, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) began formal sanctions to withhold federal highway funding from the State of Illinois for failing to meet ozone health requirements. In response, the State of Illinois legislature created Public Act (P.A.) 83-1477, known as “Emission Inspection” under Illinois state law 625 ILCS 5/13A-115, establishing the State’s first Inspection and Maintenance program to begin officially in May 1986, creating the Illinois Vehicle Emissions Testing Program.

Technological Advancements

Over the years, the program has evolved with advancements in vehicle engines and emissions testing equipment. Recognizing these advancements, the State of Illinois legislature passed P.A. 92-0682 in May 2002, effective July 2002, mandating that vehicles with a model year 1996 and newer vehicles equipped with on-board diagnostic (OBD) shall have a complete on-board diagnostic test performed on them. This change reduced wait times and increased motorist convenience while improving air quality and public health.

Program Expansion

In August 2005, the Illinois Vehicle Code was amended to incorporate a new vehicle emissions inspection program in certain specified counties and ensure the continuation of the Illinois Vehicle Emissions Testing Program. Passed under P.A. 94-526, this law required testing based primarily on OBD systems, exempted most vehicles of model year 1995 or earlier, included regulatory and enforcement provisions, and repealed the previous Vehicle Emissions Inspection Law. This law, known as the Vehicle Emissions Inspection Law of 2005 (625 ILCS 5/13C), is still in effect today.