What an adventurous day I've had with MVD.... I am a rather annoyed and sorta paranoid today.

My license plate sticker expired April 2006, and I had meant to get it taken care of. It wasn't until yesterday, the 30th, when I remembered, but I couldn't do anything about it as the MVD and the express MVDs are closed on Sundays. Grrrr...

I just thought of going today before more days pass me by and get stopped by a policeman.

I go to the MVD, and I wait in line. The attendant tells me to use the kiosks on the side since I am paying with a debit card. All right, I thought while hesitating. Had I known before, I wouldn't have waited for so long at the line to get a wait number.

I use the kiosk, but I was asked to type in the emisions test verification number and some other related info. I couldn't go further since I hadn't taken an emisions test yet. I asked for help on what to do at this point, and I was told I had to get the emisions test before going further, even for a license plate sticker. Grrrrr... Even a much LONGER time before I can get my damn sticker. I was NOT happy.... I left the MVD just thinking about how I wasn't asked for the emisions test number last year.

So, my question - why wasn't I asked (or required?) for an emisions testing information when I renewed my license plate stickers last year? How often should the emisions testing be? And, what is actually done during an emisions testing? How long would it take, on average? Around how much would that be? And.... how can I make sure I find a valid place where I will NOT get screwed over because I am female? I hate going through car maintenace procedures especially since I am female. It really sucks. But anyway... can anyone help and/or give suggestions/advice? I plan on doing this tomorrow so I can FINALLY get my license plate sticker as soon as possible.

Thanks ahead of time. :wave:

So, my question - why wasn't I asked (or required?) for an emisions testing information when I renewed my license plate stickers last year? How often should the emisions testing be? And, what is actually done during an emisions testing? How long would it take, on average? Around how much would that be? And.... how can I make sure I find a valid place where I will NOT get screwed over because I am female? I hate going through car maintenace procedures especially since I am female. It really sucks. But anyway... can anyone help and/or give suggestions/advice? I plan on doing this tomorrow so I can FINALLY get my license plate sticker as soon as possible.

Maybe because your state didn't require it until recently?
Emission testing is done every year.
During the emission test, it's like you going to a cardiologist.Your car is attached to different machines and it's checked for levels of CO2 and other contaminants.The tires are also checked at 'high speed' while it runs on a treadmill sort of machine. The gas cap is taken out and tested if it seals properly.
An average test takes less than half an hour.
In my town, they charge $40
A valid place should have a sign that says 'State Emmisions Tests done here' or 'State Approved Emmision Testing'. Some gas stations do it.
We also have to show proof of insurance in order to get it done so have it handy or ask beforehand.

Maybe because your state didn't require it until recently?
Emission testing is done every year.
During the emission test, it's like you going to a cardiologist.Your car is attached to different machines and it's checked for levels of CO2 and other contaminants.The tires are also checked at 'high speed' while it runs on a treadmill sort of machine. The gas cap is taken out and tested if it seals properly.
An average test takes less than half an hour.
In my town, they charge $40
A valid place should have a sign that says 'State Emmisions Tests done here' or 'State Approved Emmision Testing'. Some gas stations do it.
We also have to show proof of insurance in order to get it done so have it handy or ask beforehand.
Ah, I see. Thank you so much for the information and helpful suggestions. Now I comprehend a little better what to expect. :)