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Arizona emissions waivers and repair cost limits
Source: Arizona Car Help (arizonacarhelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 3, 2026.
A waiver lets the owner of a failing vehicle register it without more repair spending, once receipts for qualifying repairs are shown. A vehicle can get only one repair waiver, ever. Repairs made up to 60 days before the first failure may count. (source: Arizona Department of Environmental Quality)
- The vehicle must fail the state emissions test at least two times in the current test cycle.
- The problem must be diagnosed and a low emissions tune up done after the first failure.
- You bring the vehicle, its last failing test report and detailed repair receipts or estimates to a waiver facility.
- A waiver is issued only if more repairs cannot be made within the maximum repair cost limit.
(source: Arizona Department of Environmental Quality)
| Vehicle age | Phoenix maximum repair cost | Tucson maximum repair cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1980 and newer | $450 | $300 | (source: Arizona Department of Environmental Quality) checked November 3, 2026 |
| 1975 to 1979 | $300 | $200 | (source: Arizona Department of Environmental Quality) checked November 3, 2026 |
| 1974 and older | $200 | $50 | (source: Arizona Department of Environmental Quality) checked November 3, 2026 |
| Heavy duty diesel | $500 | $300 | (source: Arizona Department of Environmental Quality) checked November 3, 2026 |
No waiver is issued for a vehicle emitting more than two times the standard, with a faulty catalytic converter, or with emissions equipment removed, altered or defeated. A $15.00 fee is charged at the waiver facility if a waiver or compliance document is issued. Waiver stations are open Monday to Friday, 8am to 4:30pm. (source: Arizona Department of Environmental Quality)
On this site: Who needs an emissions test in Arizona · Arizona emissions test exemptions · Arizona emissions test fees · Arizona emissions waivers and repair cost limits · How to pass and schedule an Arizona emissions test · Arizona vehicle registration renewal · Registering a car when you move to Arizona · Buying or selling a car in Arizona: title, emissions and Sold Notice · Arizona used car implied warranty (15 days or 500 miles) · Arizona new car lemon law · Arizona car dealer financing, trade ins and fees · Arizona auto repair shops, liens and warranty rights · Towed from private property in Arizona · How to file a car complaint in Arizona · Cities · FAQ · Sources
Sources
- Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (myAZcar.com, the ADEQ emissions program site): Waivers (checked November 3, 2026)
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