Vehicles registered in specific ZIP codes in the Chicago and Metro-East St. Louis areas are subject to testing every two years.
Diesel Vehicles:
Diesel vehicles are not tested for emissions.
Exemptions:
1. New vehicles for the newest four (4) model years
2. Pre-1968 model year vehicles
3. Vehicles of model year 1995 or before that were in compliance with the Illinois Vehicle Emissions Inspection Law on February 1, 2007
4. Electric Vehicles
5. Vehicles registered as antiques, expanded use antiques, customs and street rods
6. Vehicles for which a Junking Certificate has been issued by the Secretary of State pursuant to the Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/3-117).
7. Vehicles of model year 2006 or earlier with a manufacturer gross vehicle weight rating between 8,501 and 14,000 pounds.
8. Vehicles with a manufacturer gross vehicle weight rating greater than 14,000 pounds.
For more information visit: http://illinoisairteam.net/
Illinois Vehicle Code
§ 625 ILCS 5/12-602. Mufflers, prevention of noise
Every motor vehicle driven or operated upon the highways of this State shall at all times be equipped with an adequate muffler or exhaust system in constant operation and properly maintained to prevent any excessive or unusual noise. No such muffler or exhaust system shall be equipped with a cutout, bypass or similar device. No person shall modify the exhaust system of a motor vehicle in a manner which will amplify or increase the noise of such vehicle above that emitted by the muffler originally installed on the vehicle, and such original muffler shall comply with all the requirements of this Section.
Antique
Available for vehicles that are more than 25 years old and bona fide replicas. Antique plates may only be used to drive to and from antique auto shows, exhibitions, service stations and demonstrations.
Antique Expanded-Use
Annually-issued plates that allow a vehicle 25 years old or older, or a bona fide replica to be driven with no restrictions from April to October. From January-March and November-December, vehicles may only be driven to and from antique auto shows, exhibitions, service stations and demonstrations.
Former Military Vehicle
Available for a vehicle, regardless of size, weight, or year of manufacture, that was manufactured for use in any country's military forces and is maintained to depict or represent military design or markings. A former military vehicle does not include a vehicle used for any commercial or production agriculture purpose.
YOM
Vehicles registered as "Antique Expanded Use" may display YOM plates. The antique plates and registration must be carried within the vehicle at all times.