Georgians have been debating whether to keep requiring emissions testing of drivers as part of the registration process for vehicles in recent years. While some contend that emissions testing is vital to safeguard the environment and the general public’s health, others think it is an expensive and pointless expense for drivers. So, will Georgia stop doing emissions tests?
Yes, to answer briefly. Governor Brian Kemp approved a bill that bans emissions testing in 13 counties in the metro Atlanta area in February 2021. The Georgia General Assembly approved HB 713, and it will go into effect on July 1, 2022. As a result, there will be no longer be an emissions test requirement for drivers in the counties of Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding, and Rockdale.
It’s crucial to remember that this modification only affects the 13 counties in the metro Atlanta area. Other Georgian drivers will still need to submit to emissions testing. The regulation also excludes vehicles powered by gasoline that are less than eight thousand five hundred pounds gross vehicle weight and are three years old or older. Vehicles powered by diesel and those rated for a gross vehicle weight of more than 8,500 pounds will still be tested for emissions.
What does this mean for Georgian business owners who own emissions testing facilities, then? Starting an emissions business in Georgia can be expensive based on a number of variables, such as the facility’s location, the tools required to do emissions testing, and the price of licenses and permits. To start an emissions business in Georgia, however, may cost $50,000 to $100,000 or more, according to some estimates.
If you’re wondering how much an emissions test in the Philippines costs, the price depends on the kind of car being tested and where the testing facility is located. However, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) reports that the price for private vehicles in Metro Manila to get their emissions tested is presently Php 500 (about $10 USD) every test.
In conclusion, effective on July 1, 2022, Georgia will stop testing for emissions in the 13 counties that make up the metro Atlanta area. Diesel-powered vehicles and those with a gross vehicle weight rating exceeding 8,500 pounds will still be subject to emissions testing, and drivers in other regions of the state will still be compelled to submit to it. While drivers in the Philippines can anticipate paying about $10 for an emissions test, business owners wishing to open an emissions testing center in Georgia can expect to spend a sizable up-front expense.