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Frequently asked questions

Source: Arizona Car Help (arizonacarhelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 3, 2026.

Who needs an emissions test in Arizona?

Residents of the greater Phoenix and Tucson areas, and regular commuters into them, for most 1967 and newer vehicles more than five years old.

How often is an Arizona emissions test needed?

Every 2 years for 1981 and newer light duty non diesel vehicles; every year for 1980 and older and most vehicles in Tucson.

Are new cars exempt from emissions testing in Arizona?

Yes, for about the first five years. MVD lists five years old or less as exempt; check your renewal notice.

How much is the Arizona out of state emissions exemption?

The online application fee is $9.50.

How much is an emissions test in Phoenix?

ADEQ's fee page lists $16.15 for the OBD test in the Phoenix area. Confirm at the station.

Is an emissions retest free in Arizona?

Yes, if the failing vehicle is retested within 60 days of the first test.

How much do I have to spend on repairs before an Arizona emissions waiver?

For 1980 and newer vehicles, $450 in the Phoenix area and $300 in the Tucson area, per ADEQ.

Can I pass emissions with the check engine light on in Arizona?

No. MVD says vehicles cannot pass when the Check Engine light is on.

Do I need an appointment for an Arizona emissions test?

No. Stations test first come, first served.

What is the late fee for Arizona registration?

$8, plus $4 for each month overdue, up to $100.

How early can I renew my Arizona registration?

Up to 90 days before expiration if an emissions test is required; otherwise up to six months.

When do I have to register my car after moving to Arizona?

MVD says as soon as you become an Arizona resident. Some Phoenix and Tucson area vehicles need an emissions test first.

How long do I have to title a car I bought in Arizona?

Arizona law requires you to apply for a title within 15 days of purchase.

Is there a 3 day right to cancel a car purchase in Arizona?

No. The Attorney General says Arizona has no cooling off period or three day right to cancel a car sale.

Does Arizona have a used car lemon law?

Yes. A.R.S. 44-1267 gives an implied warranty from a used car dealer for 15 days or 500 miles, whichever comes first. You pay up to $25 for each of the first two repairs.

How many repair attempts make a lemon in Arizona?

Four or more repairs of the same problem, or 30 or more days out of service, within the shorter of the warranty or two years or 24,000 miles.

How long do I have to file a lemon law case in Arizona?

Six months after the earlier of the warranty ending or two years or 24,000 miles.

What if the dealer says my financing fell through after I took the car?

A.R.S. 44-1371 requires the dealer to keep your trade in until financing is final or return it. The Attorney General says you may reject changed terms.

Can a repair shop keep my car until I pay in Arizona?

A.R.S. 33-1022 gives repair shops a lien for labor, materials, supplies and storage when the amount of the charges was agreed to by the shop and the owner.

Can a lot tow my car in Arizona without signs?

A.R.S. 9-499.05 deems unposted parking areas open to the public, and requires signs at each entrance listing restrictions, maximum cost and where to find the car.

Where do I complain about a car dealer or repair shop in Arizona?

The Arizona Attorney General's Consumer Information and Complaints Unit. File online or by mail; Phoenix (602) 542-5763.

Do I need an emissions test in Phoenix?

Testing is required in the Phoenix metropolitan area for most vehicles more than five years old. Check your renewal notice or ADEQ's address locator.

How often do I need an emissions test in Tucson?

ADEQ says most vehicles in Tucson require emissions every year. Check your renewal notice.

Where can I get an emissions test in Mesa?

ADEQ's Phoenix Area list includes two stations with Mesa addresses. You may use any station in your test area.

Where can I get an emissions test in Chandler?

ADEQ's Phoenix Area list includes two stations with Chandler addresses.

Where can I get an emissions test in Scottsdale?

ADEQ's Phoenix Area list includes one station with a Scottsdale address.

Where can I get an emissions test in Glendale?

ADEQ's Phoenix Area list includes two stations with Glendale addresses.

Is there an emissions station in Tempe?

ADEQ's Phoenix Area list has no station with a Tempe address. You may use any station in your test area.

Do I need an emissions test in Flagstaff?

ADEQ says vehicles registered outside Area A and B (metropolitan Phoenix and Tucson) do not need an Arizona emissions inspection. Confirm your address with ADEQ's locator, and note the commuter rule.

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

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