Where to have emissions tests performed in Nashville

Joseph Choi
The Tennessean

Despite a push in recent years to do away with emission testing, many counties in Middle Tennessee still require the annual test.

Former governor Bill Haslam signed a law last year that sought to eliminate emission testing in Tennessee, though its effects were not intended to be immediate. 

What counties in Tennessee require emissions testing?

Davidson, Hamilton, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson County have all continued to maintain the program while the state awaits approval from the Environmental Protection Agency.

Rutherford County will likely continue to require the tests for at least two more years. According to the county website getting approval from the EPA could take more than three years.

Common reasons for wanting to end emission testing are that it is time-consuming and unnecessary, especially as vehicles become more fuel-efficient and Tennessee continues to meet air-quality standards.

Currently, if a vehicle fails an inspection it must be repaired until it passes the test. Vehicles can be repaired by a qualified technician or the owner, though a technician is recommended.

Drivers can apply for a vehicle exemption if they can prove their vehicle has been out-of-state for more than 90 days at the time of renewal.

Which vehicles are exempt?

New vehicles being registered for the first time and vehicles with a model year of 1974 and older are exempt. Antique cars — used for varios activites but general transportation — are also exempt.

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Nashville emissions testing

Here is where and when vehicles can be tested in Nashville:

  • 501 Craighead Street, Nashville, TN
    • Monday, Tuesday: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
    • Wednesday - Friday: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • Saturday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
    • Sunday: Closed
  • 3494 Dickerson Road, Nashville, TN
    • Monday, Tuesday: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
    • Wednesday - Friday: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • Saturday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
    • Sunday: Closed
  • 715 Gallatin Pike N, Madison, TN
    • Monday, Tuesday: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
    • Wednesday - Friday: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • Saturday - Sunday: Closed
  • 3363 Stoners Bend Drive, Hermitage, TN
    • Monday, Tuesday: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
    • Wednesday - Friday: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • Saturday, Sunday: Closed
  • 1317 Antioch Pike, Nashville, TN
    • Monday - Friday: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Saturday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
    • Sunday: Closed
  • 7008 Westbelt Drive, Nashville, TN
    • Monday, Tuesday: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
    • Wednesday - Friday: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • Saturday, Sunday: Closed

Mobile testing units are also available at locations that may be more convenient for some drivers. The current hours for all mobile locations are Tuesday - Thursday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a break from 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

  • 419 Battle Road, Antioch, TN (Cane Ridge Park)
  • 3570 Old Clarksville Pk, Joelton, TN (Joelton Community Club Park)
  • 710 Mainstream Drive, Nashville, TN (Buena Vista Park)
  • 8101 Hwy 100, Nashville, TN (Bellevue Family YMCA)

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