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CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) POLLUTION
The major source of carbon monoxide (CO) pollution, between 80 and 90 percent, in Anchorage is from automobile emissions. Failure of some owners to properly maintain and repair a poorly operating vehicle contributes to the problem. In 1985, Anchorage established the vehicle inspection and maintenance (I/M) program to identify and repair polluting vehicles. After repair, vehicle output of CO can be reduced by more than 75%, improving air quality for everyone.
VEHICLES TO BE TESTED
In general, all vehicles registered, principally used, principally located, or used to commute to work or school in Anchorage are required to pass an IM test. Model year 1967 and older vehicles are exempt, as are the latest two model years. For example, in 1999, 1997 vehicles are required to obtain their first inspection. Owners of these vehicles are required to show proof of compliance with I/M requirements to the Alaska Department of Motor Vehicles before initial registration or registration renewal. Sellers of vehicles model year 1987 and older are required to provide to the buyer an I/M Certificate of Inspection or a Certificate of Non-Compliance not more than 1 year old at the time of the sale.
I/M CERTIFICATE & WINDOW STICKER
A Certificate of Inspection consists of two parts. A paper certificate that is used at DMV to verify the I/M test has been completed and a windshield sticker that shows visual evidence of the I/M test.
COSTS TO VEHICLE OWNERS
The price of an I/M test is capped at $50 by law, however the actual price is set by the market place and ranges from $15.95 to $50. In addition the fee for an I/M certificate is $18. The fee for a waiver is $18 also. The revenues from the I/M certificate are used to fund the costs of operating the municipal I/M and air quality programs.
REPAIR COST MINIMUMS
There are some circumstances under which a waiver from testing requirements may be obtained. Details regarding waivers are available at the Environmental Services Customer Services Counter at 825 L Street, 5th floor, 343-4200. Vehicles needing repairs exceeding a cost minimum may be eligible for a waiver from remaining repair requirements for one inspection period. There is a requirement to spend at least $450.00 for repairs necessary (other than for tampering) for a vehicle to pass an I/M test. There is no repair cost minimum for tampered vehicles.
PARTS ON ORDER WAIVERS
A vehicle failing an I/M test due to faulty or missing components that are documented to be on order and prepaid by the vehicle owner may be eligible for a waiver to extend the time to complete repair requirements.
SEASONAL WAIVERS
Owners of vehicles operated only during the period from April 1 through October 31, when Anchorage has not historically exceeded the federal standard for CO, may be eligible for a waiver from I/M testing requirements. Driving vehicles with a seasonal waiver is prohibited between November 1 and March 31.
 (Download Adobe Version of Seasonal Waiver Form)
OUTSIDE USE WAIVERS
Vehicles that are registered to an Anchorage address but are not located within the Municipality of Anchoarge may be eligible for an outside use waiver. For vehicles located in another I/M area, the Federal Clean Air Act requires applicants for an Outside Use Waiver to provide a certificate of inspection from that area.
This form can be completed on-line prior to printing. Use your tab key to move between fields.
(Download Adobe Version of Outside Use Waiver)
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
A vehicle that cannot be tested due to a technical problem or a vehicle with a circumstance that is unique to that vehicle may be eligible for a waiver from I/M testing requirements.
For more information about the Vehicle Inspection program call 343-6970
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