what year cars need emissions in utah

[Heather]

In Utah, most gasoline-powered cars, trucks, and SUVs that are six to eight years old need an emissions test. This requirement applies when you initially register a vehicle in certain counties and upon renewal for vehicles of that age range. The specific model year that needs testing changes annually. For example, in 2024, a vehicle needs a test if its model year is 2018, 2017, or 2016.

The rule is not solely based on the car's age but also on your location. Emissions testing is mandatory in five counties: Salt Lake, Davis, Utah, Weber, and Cache. If you live in a rural county like Kane or San Juan, your car likely never needs an emissions test, regardless of its age.

Newer and older vehicles are generally exempt. Cars that are five model years old or newer do not require testing. Additionally, vehicles that are nine model years old or older are also exempt. This creates a testing window focused on the middle-aged vehicles that are most commonly on the road.

Vehicle Model Year	Age (in 2024)	Emissions Test Required? (in affected counties)
2024	0 years	Exempt (New Vehicle Exemption)
2020	4 years	Exempt (Under 6 years old)
2018	6 years	Required
2017	7 years	Required
2016	8 years	Required
2015	9 years	Exempt (Over 8 years old)
2005	19 years	Exempt

Other exemptions include diesel vehicles manufactured before 1998, electric vehicles, motorcycles, and vehicles registered as farm trucks. The best way to confirm your vehicle's status is to check your registration renewal notice from the county or use the online tool on the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles website. Always verify with local authorities, as rules can be updated.

[StDante]

It’s all about the county you live in. If you're in Salt Lake, Davis, Utah, Weber, or Cache County, your gas car needs a test when it hits six years old. You’ll need to get it tested every two years until it’s nine years old, then you’re off the hook. Just moved to St. George? You’re probably good—no testing down there. Check your registration paperwork; it’ll tell you for sure.

[Fitzgerald]

When I moved here from California, I was surprised by how straightforward it is. Basically, they test cars in their prime—from ages six to eight. My 2017 SUV needed one this year. It’s a targeted system to catch the highest polluters without bothering owners of brand-new cars or classic cars. The rule is easy to remember once you’ve been through the cycle once. The county website made it simple to schedule the test.

[McCaleb]

The logic is to maximize air quality impact while minimizing hassle. Vehicles in that six-to-eight-year window are numerous and their emission control systems, like catalytic converters, may be starting to degrade. Testing them specifically is a cost-effective way to ensure cleaner air along the Wasatch Front. Newer cars are cleaner by design, and older cars are driven fewer miles. It’s a smart, data-driven policy.

[BriellaLee]

Focus on the "6-8-9" rule for the Wasatch Front counties. Your car needs its first emissions test in the year it turns six years old. You’ll need another test two years later when it’s eight. Once it celebrates its ninth birthday, no more tests are required. So, for a 2024 car, mark your calendar for 2030 for the first test. Always double-check your registration notice for the exact requirement.