Vehicle Inspection Program - VIP: Purpose of testing

Which test will your vehicle be given?

In the Medford area:

• 1996 or newer - On-Board Diagnostics Test
• 20 years or newer and pre-1996 - Basic Emissions Test
• 21 years or older - Do not need to take the test

In the Portland area:

• 1996 or newer - On-Board Diagnostics Test
• 1975 - 1995 - Basic Emissions Test
• 1974 or older - Do not need to take the test

The Portland Metro area experiences more severe air quality problems and denser population than the Medford area so the cut off year for vehicle testing is 1975 while the Rogue Valley has a rolling 20-year rule.

On-Board Diagnostics Test

The On-Board Diagnostics Test (OBD) consists of a scan tool that plugs into the vehicle's computer and checks to make sure emission systems are working correctly. The test does not change or affect the vehicle's computer in any way; it only reads information about the emission systems. A DEQ inspector will take your car through the test while you are in the waiting area. Pets are not allowed in your car while the inspector takes it through the testing process. Please make sure no warning lights are illuminated before taking the test.

Read more about On-Board Diagnostics PDF

Basic Emissions Test

The Basic Emissions Test is a two-speed idle test that analyzes emissions for hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide levels. The vehicle is placed in neutral and idles for 30 seconds. After that, it is taken to 2500 revolutions per minute for 30 seconds, and then idles for another 30 seconds.