FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    October 14, 2003
NEWS FROM: Emissions Control Section

The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles this week is mailing the first batch of registration renewal notices requiring larger diesel-powered trucks and SUVs to obtain emissions inspections. A smog check is now required before registration on diesel vehicles with a manufacturer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of up to 10,000 pounds. The previous maximum weight was 8,500 pounds.

The new limit is one of many air quality enhancements passed by the 2003 Nevada Legislature. The department estimates there are 15,000 vehicles in Clark County and 5,000 vehicles in Washoe County affected by the higher standards. The types of vehicles affected are “one ton” pickups and the largest diesel-powered SUVs.

Diesel vehicles fall under the same general emissions rules as cars and trucks powered by gasoline. New vehicles are exempt on their first and second registration. All others must be tested if they are 1968 or newer and based in the urban areas of Clark and Washoe counties. Emissions inspections are required for both a registration renewal and for an original registration after the transfer of ownership.

Annual registration renewal notices will indicate whether a vehicle requires a test. The department uses the manufacturer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating as indicated by the Vehicle Identification Number to determine the vehicle’s weight class. The manufacturer’s weight rating may be different than the declared weight that DMV uses to determine registration fees.

The emissions test for diesel vehicles is conducted on a dynamometer. Only a limited number of smog check locations offer this service. For locations and fees, see the DMV web site at www.dmvnv.com/emission_diesel.htm.

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