Background

Waivers permit the registration of a vehicle despite a failed emissions test. Waivers are only issued by the Emissions Lab. The State of Nevada issues waivers for vehicles that fail emissions tests but would be exceedingly expensive to repair. The repair cost threshold that vehicles must meet to qualify for a waiver differs between counties. 

In Washoe County, the minimum repair expense required to qualify for a waiver is $200. The price does not include the price of emissions testing. All repairs must be performed by a 2G station, unless the customer applies for a self-repair waiver. To qualify for a self-repair waiver, customers must present proof that at least $200 has been spent on parts within 14 days of a failed emissions test. 

In Clark County, the minimum repair expense required to qualify for a waiver is $450. All repairs must be performed at a licensed Nevada 2G station.

Only the DMV Emissions Lab can grant a waiver. To apply for a waiver, customers must present to the Emissions Lab with the vehicle in question. Also, customers must bring all 2g station repair receipts, the original failing VIR, and the failing VIR from after the repairs. In Washoe County, self-repair applicants must bring all receipts documenting when parts were purchased and how much was spent.

Some vehicles do not qualify for a waiver. Smoking vehicles must be repaired regardless of the cost. Additionally, waivers cannot be granted for tamper-failure. All tampered vehicles must be repaired regardless of the cost. Remember, there is no guarantee that a customer will receive a waiver, even if they meet all of the qualifications.