Press Release - Friday, October 05, 2007
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Illinois EPA Begins License Plate Renewal Enforcement for Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program
SPRINGFIELD --- Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) Director Doug Scott has announced a change in the enforcement process for vehicles which are currently subject to the vehicle emissions testing program in Northeastern Illinois and Metro-East St. Louis.
Beginning this week, the Illinois EPA will send new, yellow-colored test notices to owners of vehicles subject to testing with January 2008 or later license plate expiration dates. The notices will explain that vehicles must now comply with emissions test requirements before the vehicle's license plate can be renewed. Previously, motorists whose vehicles were not in compliance with vehicle inspection requirements could have their drivers' licenses and vehicle registrations suspended.
"This is one of the many improvements being made in the vehicle emissions testing program," said Director Scott. "The goal of the program is to reduce harmful emissions from vehicles to improve air quality and public health."
The Illinois EPA mails test notices approximately four months before license plate expiration. Pink warning notices will no longer be sent. This will be the only notice sent by the Illinois EPA.
The Secretary of State will send license plate renewal notices approximately 45 days in advance of license plate expiration. This notice will remind motorists of the need to comply with vehicle emissions inspection requirements.
Motorists may have their vehicle tested as soon as they receive the test notice and are encouraged to test as soon as possible. If the vehicle is rejected or fails the inspection, this will provide ample time to repair the vehicle and have it re-inspected before the vehicle's license plate expires.
For the majority of motorists who keep their vehicle inspections current, these changes to the emissions inspection law passed by the General Assembly in 2006 will have little impact. Motorists with questions about the program can call 847-758-3400 or 217-785-7449 or visit www.epa.state.il.us/air/vim.
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