Does Illinois Require a Vehicle Inspection to Register? (2026)
Yes — Illinois requires an emissions test in the Chicago metro (Cook, DuPage, Lake + parts of Kane, Kendall, McHenry, Will) and Metro-East St. Louis (Madison, Monroe, St. Clair) before it will renew your registration if you live in a covered area.
Verified July 2026 from official sources. How we verify fees.
Before you renew your registration
In Illinois, your registration renewal is tied to passing an inspection. Get it done before your tags expire — the DMV won't renew without a current inspection if you live in a covered area.
The details
- Safety inspection: not required
- Emissions test: required in the Chicago metro (Cook, DuPage, Lake + parts of Kane, Kendall, McHenry, Will) and Metro-East St. Louis (Madison, Monroe, St. Clair)
- Typical cost: free
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an inspection to renew my registration in Illinois?
Yes — Illinois requires an emissions test in the Chicago metro (Cook, DuPage, Lake + parts of Kane, Kendall, McHenry, Will) and Metro-East St. Louis (Madison, Monroe, St. Clair) before it will renew your registration if you live in a covered area.
Does Illinois require emissions testing?
Emissions testing is required only in the Chicago metro (Cook, DuPage, Lake + parts of Kane, Kendall, McHenry, Will) and Metro-East St. Louis (Madison, Monroe, St. Clair). The rest of Illinois is exempt.
How much does a Illinois inspection cost?
Free.