How do I apply for exemption status when it comes to Maryland emissions?
Applying for an exemption from the Maryland Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP) permanently eliminates the need for your vehicle to be tested because the vehicle meets specific criteria.
Here’s a breakdown of the process and general types of vehicles/situations that may qualify for an exemption:
Application Process for a VEIP Exemption
- Determine if your vehicle qualifies for an exemption.
- Exemptions are based on vehicle criteria, such as type, age, fuel type, or weight. (See common categories below.)
- Fill out the required form.
- You will typically need to complete the Certified Statement (Form EP-009).
- Submit the form to the Maryland MVA/VEIP.
- You can submit the form and any necessary supporting documentation in one of the following ways:
- Electronically: Through the MVA’s ContactMVA service.
- By Mail: To the Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP) address (usually MVA, Attn: VEIP, 6601 Ritchie Hwy, NE, Glen Burnie, MD 21062).
- In Person: You can hand deliver the form to any of the 18 VEIP stations located throughout Maryland.
- You can submit the form and any necessary supporting documentation in one of the following ways:
Common Exemption Categories
While the official list is maintained by the MVA, here are some common types of vehicles that are typically exempt from VEIP testing:
- Vehicle Type/Fuel:
- Vehicles powered solely by diesel (certain model years may require testing).
- 100% Electric Vehicles (EVs).
- Motorcycles.
- Age/Weight:
- Vehicles model year 1995 or older with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 8,500 pounds or less.
- Vehicles weighing more than 26,000 pounds GVWR.
- Special Registration/Use:
- Vehicles classified as Historic or Antique vehicles.
- Vehicles registered as a farm truck or farm vehicle.
- New vehicles and qualified hybrids for the first 36 months after titling and registration.
- Certain government-owned vehicles (e.g., fire apparatus, some ambulances).
Important Note: Exemption criteria can change, and your vehicle must permanently meet the set criteria.
Applying for an exemption from the Maryland Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP) permanently eliminates the need for your vehicle to be tested because the vehicle meets specific criteria.
Here’s a breakdown of the process and general types of vehicles/situations that may qualify for an exemption:
Application Process for a VEIP Exemption
- Determine if your vehicle qualifies for an exemption.
- Exemptions are based on vehicle criteria, such as type, age, fuel type, or weight. (See common categories below.)
- Fill out the required form.
- You will typically need to complete the Certified Statement (Form EP-009).
- Submit the form to the Maryland MVA/VEIP.
- You can submit the form and any necessary supporting documentation in one of the following ways:
- Electronically: Through the MVA’s ContactMVA service.
- By Mail: To the Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP) address (usually MVA, Attn: VEIP, 6601 Ritchie Hwy, NE, Glen Burnie, MD 21062).
- In Person: You can hand deliver the form to any of the 18 VEIP stations located throughout Maryland.
- You can submit the form and any necessary supporting documentation in one of the following ways:
Common Exemption Categories
While the official list is maintained by the MVA, here are some common types of vehicles that are typically exempt from VEIP testing:
- Vehicle Type/Fuel:
- Vehicles powered solely by diesel (certain model years may require testing).
- 100% Electric Vehicles (EVs).
- Motorcycles.
- Age/Weight:
- Vehicles model year 1995 or older with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 8,500 pounds or less.
- Vehicles weighing more than 26,000 pounds GVWR.
- Special Registration/Use:
- Vehicles classified as Historic or Antique vehicles.
- Vehicles registered as a farm truck or farm vehicle.
- New vehicles and qualified hybrids for the first 36 months after titling and registration.
- Certain government-owned vehicles (e.g., fire apparatus, some ambulances).
Important Note: Exemption criteria can change, and your vehicle must permanently meet the set criteria.
Don’t Confuse Exemption with Waiver or Extension
It’s important to know the difference, as they involve different forms and purposes:
| Category | Purpose | Duration |
| Exemption | Permanently eliminates the need for testing because the vehicle meets certain criteria. | Permanent |
| Waiver | Eliminates the test requirement for the current test cycle (typically two years). Usually granted for Senior Citizens, Disabled citizens, or after a costly repair and second failure. | Temporary (must re-apply) |
| Extension | Provides additional time to have your vehicle tested (e.g., vehicle is inoperable or you are out of the area). | Temporary |
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including a detailed list of all exempt vehicles and the necessary forms, you should always consult the official Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP) website.
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