State hikes maximum fee for smog testing

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Friday, Dec. 7, 2001 | 10:39 a.m.

SUN CAPITAL BUREAU

CARSON CITY -- Auto inspection stations in Clark and Washoe counties will be able to charge a higher maximum fee for smog checking starting Jan. 1.

In Clark County, the maximum rate set by the state that can be charged is now $28.50 for a light-duty vehicle 8,500 pounds or less. That will go to $30.56 next month. For heavy-duty vehicles the fee rises from $31 to $33.06.

Jim Parsons, administrator of the Management Services Division in the state Department of Motor Vehicles, said Thursday the rates are based on an annual survey of shop labor prices. There are an estimated 400 stations in the two counties where annual smog examinations are required before a vehicle can be re-registered.

Parsons said many stations charge less than the allowed maximum rate. For instance, he said the average charge was $22 this year.

In Washoe County, meanwhile, the maximum rate for light-duty vehicles goes from $28 to $31.56, and for heavy-duty vehicles it rises from $30 to $33.56.

The department is also looking at expanding a pilot program that allows motorists to renew their registration at the stations that perform the emissions testing.