2010 Prius - Exempt from Emissions Testing in MD

I was pleasantly surprised yesterday to find out that my 2010 Prius is exempt from emissions testing in Maryland. The EPA requires emissions testing in Maryland every two years. It costs $14.00 and requires, for me, a twenty-five mile drive to the emissions test facility where I wait in line so they can plug a tester into the OBD port to verify that all the emissions devices are functioning. The exemption lasts for as long as I own the car.

Information for Maryland Residents: I received a regular inspection notice which I took to the testing station. When I got to the front of the line an attendant came out and said I was exempt and to go inside the office for an exemption certificate, which I did and got. So, if you get an inspection notice, don’t wait in line, just go into the office and get your exemption certificate. I am not sure if there is any other way to get the exemption certificate other than going to the testing facility, such calling or on-line. Perhaps someone can try calling or on-line and report if it works.

I don’t know why the Prius is exempt. The Prius engine has the same emissions systems as other engines and I presume they are no more or less subject to failure. I am just happy to be relieved of this inconvenience.