Virginia Law

Part . Asm Exhaust Emission Standards

9VAC5-91-10. General.

Definitions

A. For the purpose of this chapter and subsequent amendments or any orders issued by the board, the words or terms shall have the meanings given them in 9VAC5-91-20.

B. Unless specifically defined in the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law (§ 46.2-1176 et seq. of the Code of Virginia) or in this chapter, terms used shall have the meanings given them by 9VAC5-170-20 (definitions, Regulation for General Administration) or commonly ascribed to them by recognized authorities, in that order of priority.

Statutory Authority

§ 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 3, eff. January 1, 1998.

9VAC5-91-20. Terms defined.

"Aborted test" means an emissions inspection procedure that has been initiated by the inspector but stopped and not completed due to inspector error or a vehicular problem that prevents completion of the test. Aborted tests are not tests that cannot be completed due to a "failed/invalid" result caused by an exhaust dilution problem or an engine condition that prevents the inspection from being completed.

"Acceleration Simulation Mode (ASM) 50-15 equipment" means dynamometer-based emissions test equipment used to perform an enhanced emissions test in one or more, discreet, simulated road speed and engine load modes.

"Acceleration Simulation Mode (ASM) 25-25 standards" means the standards utilized for one of the discreet modes of the ASM test of the enhanced emissions inspection program.

"Access code" means the security phrase or number which allows authorized station personnel, the department, and analyzer service technicians to perform specific assigned functions using the certified analyzer system, as determined by the department. Depending on the assigned function, the access code is a personal password, a state password, or a service password. Access code is not an identification number, but is used as an authenticator along with the identification number where such number is needed to perform specific tasks.

"Actual gross weight" means the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).

"Administrator" means the administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or an authorized representative.

"Affected motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle or replica vehicle which:

1. Was manufactured or designated by the manufacturer as a model year less than 25 calendar years prior to January 1 of the present calendar year according to the formula, the current calendar year minus 24, except those identified by remote sensing as specified in subdivision 5 of this definition;

2. Is designed for the transportation of persons or property;

3. Is powered by an internal combustion engine;

4. For the Northern Virginia Emissions Inspection Program, has an actual gross weight of 10,000 pounds or less; and

5. For vehicles subject to the remote sensing requirements of 9VAC5-91-180, was designated by the manufacturer as model year 1968 or newer.

The term "affected motor vehicle" does not mean any:

1. Vehicle powered by a clean special fuel as defined in § 46.2-749.3 of the Code of Virginia, provided the federal Clean Air Act permits such exemptions for vehicles powered by clean special fuels;

2. Motorcycle or autocycle, unless such autocycle has been emissions certified with an on-board diagnostic system by the United States Environmental Protection Agency;

3. Vehicle that at the time of its manufacture was not designed to meet emissions standards set or approved by the federal government;

4. Any antique motor vehicle as defined in § 46.2-100 of the Code of Virginia and licensed pursuant to § 46.2-730 of the Code of Virginia;

5. Firefighting equipment, rescue vehicle, or ambulance;

6. Vehicle for which no testing standards have been adopted by the board;

7. Tactical military vehicle;

8. Qualified hybrid motor vehicle if such vehicle obtains a rating from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency of at least 50 miles per gallon, or 48 miles per gallon for model years 2008 or 2009, during city fuel economy tests unless identified by the remote sensing requirements of 9VAC5-91-180 as violating the on-road high emitter emissions standards for on-road testing;

9. Vehicle manufactured for the current model year or any of the three immediately preceding model years unless identified by the remote sensing requirements of 9VAC5-91-180 as violating the emissions standards for on-road testing; or

10. Military surplus motor vehicle, which means a multipurpose or tactical vehicle manufactured by or under the direction of the United States armed forces for off-road use and subsequently authorized for sale to civilians. A military surplus motor vehicle does not include specialized mobile equipment as defined in § 46.2-700 of the Code of Virginia, trailers, or semitrailers.

"Air intake systems" means those systems that allow for the induction of ambient air (to include preheated air) into the engine combustion chamber for the purpose of mixing with a fuel for combustion.

"Air pollution" means the presence in the outdoor atmosphere of one or more substances which are or may be harmful or injurious to human health, welfare, or safety, to animal or plant life, or to property; or which unreasonably interfere with the enjoyment by the people of life or property.

"Air Pollution Control Law" means Chapter 13 (§ 10.1-1300 et seq.) of Title 10.1 of the Code of Virginia.

"Air system" or "air injection system" means a system for providing supplementary air to promote further oxidation of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide gases and to assist catalytic reaction.

"Alternative fuel" means an internal combustion engine fuel other than (i) gasoline, (ii) diesel, or (iii) fuel mixtures containing more than 15% volume of gasoline.

"Alternative method" means any method of sampling and analyzing for an air pollutant that is not a reference method, but that has been demonstrated to the satisfaction of the board, in specific cases, to produce results adequate for its determination of compliance.

"Authorized personnel" means department personnel, an individual designated by analyzer system manufacturer, station owner, licensed emissions inspector, program coordinator, station manager, or other person as designated by the station manager.

"Basic engine systems" means those parts or assemblies which provide for the efficient conversion of a compressed air and fuel charge into useful power to include valve train mechanisms, cylinder head to block integrity, piston-ring-cylinder sealing integrity, and post-combustion emissions control device integrity.

"Board" means the State Air Pollution Control Board or its designated representative.

"Calibration" means establishing or verifying the response curve of a measurement device using several different measurements having precisely known quantities.

"Calibration gases" means gases of precisely known concentrations that are used as references for establishing or verifying the response curve of a measurement device.

"Catalytic converter" means a post combustion device that oxidizes hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide gases, and may also reduce oxides of nitrogen.

"Certificate of emissions inspection" means a document, device, or symbol, whether recorded in written or electronic form, as prescribed by the director and issued pursuant to this chapter, which indicates that (i) an affected motor vehicle has satisfactorily complied with the emissions standards and passed the emissions inspection provided for in this chapter, (ii) the requirement of compliance with the emissions standards has been temporarily waived, or (iii) the affected motor vehicle has failed the emissions inspection.

"Certified emissions repair facility" means a facility, or portion of a facility, that has obtained a certification in accordance with Part VII (9VAC5-91-500 et seq.) to perform emissions related repairs on motor vehicles.

"Certified emissions repair technician" means a person who has obtained a certification in accordance with Part VIII (9VAC5-91-550 et seq.) to perform emissions related repairs on motor vehicles.

"Certified enhanced analyzer system" or "analyzer system" means the complete system that samples and reads concentrations of hydrocarbon, carbon dioxide, nitric oxides, and carbon monoxide gases or interrogates the vehicle OBD system or both, and that is approved by the department for use in the Enhanced Emissions Inspection Program in accordance with Part X (9VAC5-91-640 et seq.). The analyzer system includes the exhaust gas handling system, the exhaust gas analyzer, associated automation hardware and software, data media, the analyzer system cabinet, dynamometer control devices, vehicle identification equipment, printer, and calibration gases. The analyzer system does not include the dynamometer and associated cooling and exhaust fans that are supplied by the inspection station.

"Certified thermometer" means a laboratory grade ambient temperature-measuring device with a range of at least 20°F through 120°F, and an attested accuracy of at least 1°F with increments of 1°, with protective shielding.

"Chargeable inspection" means a completed inspection on an affected motor vehicle, for which the station owner is entitled to collect an inspection fee. No fee shall be paid for (i) inspections for which a certificate of emissions inspection has not been issued, (ii) inspections that are conducted by the department for referee purposes, (iii) inspections which were ordered due to on-road test failures but which result in an emissions inspection "pass" at an inspection station, or (iv) the first reinspection done at the same station that performed the initial inspection within 14 days. An inspection ordered by the department due to an on-road test failure that results in a confirmation test failure at an emissions inspection station is a chargeable inspection.

"Clean screen vehicle" means a vehicle that has been identified by the on-road inspector as having met the criteria in 9VAC5-91-185 A or B and is eligible to participate in the on-road clean screen program.

"Clean screen vehicle notification" means a document, device, or symbol, whether recorded in written or electronic form, as prescribed by the director and issued pursuant to this chapter, that (i) indicates that an affected motor vehicle has satisfactorily complied with the clean screen vehicle emissions standards for on-road testing, and (ii) may be used by the motor vehicle owner to voluntarily comply with the vehicle registration requirements of § 46.2-1183 of the Code of Virginia. The notification shall also indicate that the motor vehicle owner may obtain an emissions inspection from an emissions inspection station.

"Clean screen vehicle standard" means any provision of 9VAC5-91-185 that prescribes an emission limitation, or other criteria used to select clean screen vehicles.

"Confirmation test" means an emissions inspection required due to a determination that the vehicle exceeds the on-road high emitter emissions standards prescribed in 9VAC5-91-180 B. The confirmation emissions inspection procedure may include an exhaust test (ASM or TSI), OBD system test, or both.

"Consent order" means a mutual agreement between the department and any owner, operator, emissions inspector, or emissions repair technician that such owner or other person will perform specific actions for the purpose of diminishing or abating the causes of air pollution or for the purpose of coming into compliance with this chapter. A consent order may include agreed upon civil charges. Such orders may be issued without a formal hearing.

"Curb idle" means vehicle operation whereby the transmission is disengaged and the engine is operated with the throttle in the closed or idle stop position with the resultant engine speed between 400 and 1,250 revolutions per minute (rpm), or at another idle speed if so specified by the manufacturer.

"Data handling system" means all the computer hardware, software, and peripheral equipment used to conduct emissions inspections and manage the enhanced emissions inspection program.

"Data media" means the media contained in the certified analyzer system and used to electronically record test data.

"Day" means a 24-hour period beginning at midnight.

"Department" means any employee or other representative of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, as designated by the director.

"Director" means the director of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality or a designated representative.

"Emissions control equipment" means any part, assembly, or equipment originally installed by the manufacturer in or on a motor vehicle for the sole or primary purpose of reducing emissions.

"Emissions control systems" means any system consisting of parts, assemblies, or equipment originally installed by the manufacturer in or on a motor vehicle for the primary purpose of reducing emissions.

"Emissions inspection" means an emissions inspection of a motor vehicle performed by an emissions inspector employed by or working at an emissions inspection station or fleet emissions inspection station, using the tests, procedures, and provisions set forth in this chapter.

"Emissions inspection station" means a facility or portion of a facility that has obtained an emissions inspection station permit from the director authorizing the facility to perform emissions inspections in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.

"Emissions inspector" means, except for an on-road emissions inspector, a person licensed by the department to perform inspections of vehicles required under the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law and is qualified in accordance with this chapter.

"Emissions standard" means any provision of Part III (9VAC5-91-160 et seq.) or Part XIV (9VAC5-91-790 et seq.) that prescribes an emission limitation, or other emission control requirements for motor vehicle air pollution.

"Empty weight" or "EW" means that weight stated as the EW on a Virginia motor vehicle registration or derived from the motor vehicle title or manufacturer's certificate of origin. The EW may be used to determine emissions inspection standards.

"Enhanced emissions inspection program" means a motor vehicle emissions inspection system established by this chapter that designates, as the only authorized testing equipment for emissions inspection stations, (i) the use of the ASM 50-15 (acceleration simulation mode or method) together with an OBD-II (on-board diagnostic system) with wireless capability, (ii) the use of the ASM 50-15 together with the use of a dynamometer, and (iii) two-speed tailpipe testing equipment. Possession and availability of a dynamometer shall be required for enhanced emissions inspection stations. Only those computer software programs and emissions testing procedures necessary to comply with applicable provisions of Title I of the federal Clean Air Act shall be included. Such testing equipment shall be approvable for motor vehicle manufacturers' warranty repairs. An enhanced emissions inspection program shall include remote sensing and an on-road clean screen program as provided in this chapter.

"EPA" means the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

"Equivalent test weight," "ETW," or "emissions test weight" means the weight of a motor vehicle as automatically determined by the emissions analyzer system based on vehicle make, model, body, style, model year, engine size, permanently installed equipment, and other manufacturer and aftermarket supplied information, and used for the purpose of assigning dynamometer resistance and exhaust emissions standards for the conduct of an exhaust emissions inspection.

"Exhaust gas analyzer" or "gas analyzer" means an exhaust gas handling system that is capable of measuring the concentrations of certain air pollutants in the exhaust gas from a motor vehicle.

"Facility" means something that is built, installed, or established to serve a particular purpose; includes buildings, installations, public works, businesses, commercial and industrial plants, shops and stores, apparatus, processes, operations, structures, and equipment of all types.

"Federal Clean Air Act" means Chapter 85 (§ 7401 et seq.) of Title 42 of the United States Code.

"Fleet" means 20 or more motor vehicles that are owned, operated, leased, or rented for use by a common owner.

"Fleet emissions inspection station" means any inspection facility operated under a permit issued to a qualified fleet owner or lessee as determined by the director.

"Formal hearing" means a board or department process that provides for the right of private parties to submit factual proofs as provided in § 2.2-4020 of the Administrative Process Act in connection with case decisions. Formal hearings do not include the factual inquiries of an informal nature provided in § 2.2-4019 of the Administrative Process Act.

"Fuel control systems" means those mechanical, electro-mechanical, galvanic, or electronic parts or assemblies which regulate the air-to-fuel ratio in an engine for the purpose of providing a combustible charge.

"Gas span" means the adjustment of an exhaust gas analyzer to correspond with known concentrations of gases.

"Gas span check" means a procedure using known concentrations of gases to verify the gas span adjustment of a gas analyzer.

"Gross vehicle weight rating" or "GVWR" means the maximum recommended combined weight of the motor vehicle and its load as prescribed by the manufacturer and is (i) expressed on a permanent identification label affixed to the motor vehicle, (ii) stated on the manufacturer's certificate of origin, or (iii) coded in the vehicle identification number. If the GVWR can be determined it shall be one element used to determine emissions inspection standards and test type. If the GVWR is unavailable, the department may make a determination based on the best available evidence including manufacturer reference, information coded in the vehicle identification number, or other available sources of information from which to make the determination.

"Heavy duty gasoline vehicle" or "HDGV" means a heavy duty vehicle using gasoline as its fuel.

"Heavy duty vehicle" or "HDV" means any affected motor vehicle (i) which is rated at more than 8,500 pounds GVWR or (ii) which has a loaded vehicle weight or GVWR of more than 6,000 pounds and has a basic frontal area in excess of 45 square feet.

"High emitter value" means the values in Table III-B of 9VAC5-91-180 that are used to determine vehicles in violation of the on-road high emitter emissions standard.

"Identification number" means the number assigned by the department to uniquely identify department personnel, an emissions inspection station, a certified emissions repair facility, a licensed emissions inspector, a certified emissions repair technician, or other authorized personnel as necessary for specific tasks.

"Idle mode" means a condition where the vehicle engine is warm and running at the rate specified by the manufacturer as curb idle, where the engine is not propelling the vehicle, and where the throttle is in the closed or idle stop position.

"Ignition systems" means those parts or assemblies that are designed to cause and time the ignition of a compressed air and fuel charge.

"Implementation plan" means the plan, including any revision thereof, that has been submitted by the Commonwealth and approved in Subpart VV of 40 CFR Part 52 by the administrator under § 110 of the federal Clean Air Act, or promulgated in Subpart VV of 40 CFR Part 52 by the administrator under § 110(c) of the federal Clean Air Act, or promulgated or approved by the administrator pursuant to regulations promulgated under § 301(d) of the federal Clean Air Act and that implements the relevant requirements of the federal Clean Air Act.

"Informal fact finding" means an informal conference or consultation proceeding used to ascertain the fact basis for case decisions as provided in § 2.2-4019 of the Administrative Process Act.

"Initial inspection" means the first complete emissions inspection of a motor vehicle conducted in accordance with the biennial inspection requirement and for which a valid vehicle emissions inspection report was issued. Any test following the initial inspection is a retest or reinspection.

"Inspection area" means in reference to an emissions inspection station, (i) the area that is occupied by the certified analyzer system and the vehicle being inspected or (ii) for only an OBD II test, the area within wireless range that is on the property on which the inspection station is located.

"Inspection fee" means the amount of money that (i) the emissions inspection station may collect from the motor vehicle owner for each chargeable inspection or (ii) an on-road emissions inspector may collect from the motor vehicle owner in response to a clean screen vehicle notification.

"Light duty gasoline vehicle" or "LDGV" means a light duty vehicle using gasoline as its fuel.

"Light duty gasoline truck" or "LDGT1" means a light duty truck 1 using gasoline as its fuel.

"Light duty gasoline truck" or "LDGT2" means a light duty truck 2 using gasoline as its fuel.

"Light duty truck" or "LDT" means any affected motor vehicle which (i) has a loaded vehicle weight or GVWR of 6,000 pounds or less and meets any one of the criteria below; or (ii) is rated at more than 6,000 pounds GVWR but less than 8,500 pounds GVWR and has a basic vehicle frontal area of 45 square feet or less; and meets one of the following criteria:

1. Designed primarily for purposes of transportation of property or is a derivation of such a vehicle.

2. Designed primarily for transportation of persons and has a capacity of more than 12 persons.

3. Equipped with special features enabling off-street or off-highway operation and use.

"Light duty truck 1" or "LDT1" means any light duty truck rated at 6,000 pounds GVWR or less. LDT1 is a subset of light duty trucks.

"Light duty truck 2" or "LDT2" means any light duty truck rated at greater than 6,000 pounds GVWR. LDT2 is a subset of light duty trucks.

"Light duty vehicle" or "LDV" means an affected motor vehicle that is a passenger car or passenger car derivative capable of seating 12 passengers or less.

"Loaded vehicle weight," "LVW," or "curb weight" means the weight of a vehicle and its standard equipment; that is, the empty weight as recorded on the vehicle's registration or the base shipping weight as recorded in the vehicle identification number, whichever is greater; plus the weight of any permanent attachments, the weight of a nominally filled fuel tank, plus 300 pounds.

"Locality" means a city, town, or county created by or pursuant to state law.

"Mobile fleet emissions inspection station" means a facility or entity that provides emissions inspection equipment or services to a fleet emissions inspection station on a temporary basis. Such equipment is not permanently installed at the fleet facility but is temporarily located at the fleet facility for the sole purpose of testing vehicles owned, operated, leased, or rented for use by a common owner.

"Model year" means, except as may be otherwise defined in this chapter, the motor vehicle manufacturer's annual production period which includes the time period from January 1 of the calendar year prior to the stated model year to December 31 of the calendar year of the stated model year; provided that, if the manufacturer has no annual production period, the term "model year" shall mean the calendar year of manufacture. For the purpose of this definition, model year is applied to the vehicle chassis, irrespective of the year of manufacture of the vehicle engine.

"Monitors" means those computer programs in the on-board vehicle computer that evaluate the various emissions components and systems to determine status of such components and systems.

"Motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle as defined in § 46.2-100 of the Code of Virginia as a motor vehicle and that:

1. Is designed for the transportation of persons or property; and

2. Is powered by an internal combustion engine.

"Motor vehicle dealer" means a person who is licensed by the Department of Motor Vehicles in accordance with §§ 46.2-1500 and 46.2-1508 of the Code of Virginia.

"Motor vehicle emissions" means any emissions related information that can be captured through (i) a basic test and repair inspection, (ii) enhanced emissions inspection, or (iii) on-road testing.

"Motor vehicle inspection report" means a printed certificate of emissions inspection that is a report of the results of an emissions inspection. It indicates whether the motor vehicle has (i) passed, (ii) failed, or (iii) obtained a temporary emissions inspection waiver. It may also indicate whether the emissions inspection could not be completed due to an exhaust dilution or an engine condition that prevents the inspection from being completed. The report shall accurately identify the motor vehicle and shall include inspection results, recall information provided by the department, warranty and repair information, and a unique identification number.

"Motor vehicle owner" means any person who owns, leases, operates, or controls a motor vehicle or fleet of motor vehicles.

"Nonconforming vehicle" means a vehicle not manufactured for sale in the United States to conform to emissions standards established by the federal government.

"Normal business hours" for emissions inspection stations, means a daily eight-hour period Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., with the exception of national holidays, state holidays, temporary closures noticed to the department, and closures due to the inability to meet the requirements of this chapter. Nothing in this chapter shall prevent stations from performing inspections at other times in addition to the "normal business hours." Emissions inspection stations may, with the approval of the department, substitute a combined total of eight hours, between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., over a weekend period for one weekday as their "normal business hours" for conducting emissions inspections. Emissions inspection stations shall post inspection hours.

"Northern Virginia emissions inspection program" means the emissions inspection program required by this chapter in the Northern Virginia program area.

"Northern Virginia program area" or "program area" means the territorial area encompassed by the boundaries of the following localities: the counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, and Stafford; and the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, and Manassas Park.

"On-board diagnostic system" or "OBD system" means the computerized emissions control diagnostic system installed on model year 1996 and newer affected motor vehicles.

"On-board diagnostic system test" or "OBD test" means an evaluation of the OBD system pursuant to either 40 CFR 86.094-17 (2009 CFR) or 40 CFR 86.099-17 as applicable, according to procedures specified in 40 CFR 85.2222 and this chapter.

"On-board diagnostic vehicle" or "OBD vehicle" means a model year 1996 and newer model affected motor vehicle equipped with an on-board diagnostic system and meeting the requirements of 40 CFR 85.2231.

"On-road clean screen program" means a program that allows a motor vehicle owner to voluntarily certify compliance with emissions standards by means of on-road remote sensing.

"On-road emissions inspector" means the entity or entities authorized by the Department of Environmental Quality to perform on-road testing, including on-road testing in accordance with the on-road clean screen program.

"On-road emissions measurement" means data obtained through on-road testing.

"On-road high emitter emissions standard" means any provision of 9VAC5-91-180 that prescribes an emission limitation, or other emission control requirements for motor vehicle emissions. The on-road high emitter emissions standard shall be determined by multiplying the high emitter value in Table III-B of 9VAC5-91-180 with the appropriate ASM 25-25 standard in 9VAC5-91-810 or the TSI standard in Table III-A of 9VAC5-91-160.

"On-road testing" means tests of motor vehicle emissions or emissions control devices by means of roadside pullovers or remote sensing devices.

"Operated primarily" means motor vehicle operation that constitutes routine operation into or within the program area as evidenced by observation using remote sensing equipment at least three times in a 60-day period with no less than 30 days between the first and last observation. The director may increase the number of observations required for compliance determination if, in his discretion, based on program experience, such an increase would not significantly adversely impact the objectives of this chapter. The term "operated primarily" shall be used to identify motor vehicle operation that is subject to the exhaust emission standards for on-road testing through remote sensing set forth in 9VAC5-91-180. The term "operated primarily" shall not be used to identify motor vehicle operation that will subject the vehicle to the compliance provisions set forth in 9VAC5-91-160 and 9VAC5-91-170 for biennial emissions inspections.

"Order" means any decision or directive of the board or the director, including orders, consent orders, and orders of all types rendered for the purpose of diminishing or abating the causes of air pollution or enforcement of this chapter. Unless specified otherwise in this chapter, orders shall only be issued after the appropriate administrative proceeding.

"Owner" means any person who owns, leases, operates, controls, or supervises a facility or motor vehicle.

"Party" means any person who actively participates in the administrative proceeding or offers comments through the public participation process and is named in the administrative record. The term "party" also means the department.

"Person" means an individual, corporation, partnership, association, a governmental body, a municipal corporation, or any other legal entity.

"Pollutant" means any substance the presence of which in the outdoor atmosphere is or may be harmful or injurious to human health, welfare, or safety, to animal or plant life, or to property; or which unreasonably interferes with the enjoyment by the people of life or property.

"Program coordinator" means any person or corporation that has entered into a contract with the director to provide services in accordance with Part X (9VAC5-91-640 et seq.) and other services not to include remote sensing.

"Qualified hybrid motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle that (i) meets or exceeds all applicable regulatory requirements, (ii) meets or exceeds the applicable federal motor vehicle emissions standards for gasoline-powered passenger cars, and (iii) can draw propulsion energy both from gasoline or diesel fuel and a rechargeable energy storage system.

"Reconstructed vehicle" means every vehicle of a type required to be registered under Title 46.2 (§ 46.2-100 et seq.) of the Code of Virginia, materially altered from its original construction by the removal, addition or substitution of new or used essential parts. Such vehicles, at the discretion of the Department of Motor Vehicles, shall retain their original vehicle identification number, line-make, and model year.

"Referee station" or "referee facility" means those facilities operated or used by the department to (i) determine program effectiveness, (ii) resolve emissions inspection conflicts between motor vehicle owners and emissions inspection stations, and (iii) provide such other technical support and information, as appropriate, to emissions inspection stations and motor vehicle owners.

"Reference method" means any method of sampling and analyzing for an air pollutant as described in Appendix A of 40 CFR Part 60.

"Reinspection" or "retest" means a type of inspection selected by the department or the emissions inspector when a request for an inspection is due to a previous failure. Any inspection that occurs 120 days or less following the most recent chargeable inspection is a retest.

"Rejected" or "rejected from testing" means that the vehicle cannot be inspected due to conditions in accordance with 9VAC5-91-420 C or 9VAC5-91-420 G 3.

"Remote sensing" means the measurement of motor vehicle emissions through electronic or light-sensing equipment from a remote location such as the roadside. Remote sensing equipment may include devices to detect and record the vehicle's registration or other identification numbers.

"Replica vehicle" means every vehicle of a type required to be registered under Title 46.2 (§ 46.2-100 et seq.) of the Code of Virginia not fully constructed by a licensed manufacturer but either constructed or assembled from components. Such components may be from a single vehicle, multiple vehicles, a kit, parts, or fabricated components. The kit may be made up of "major components" as defined in § 46.2-1600 of the Code of Virginia, a full body, or a full chassis, or a combination of these parts. The vehicle shall resemble a vehicle of distinctive name, line-make, model, or type as produced by a licensed manufacturer or manufacturer no longer in business and is not a reconstructed or specially constructed vehicle. Any vehicle registered as a replica vehicle shall meet emission requirements as established for the model year of which the vehicle is a replica.

"Sensitive mission vehicle" means any vehicle which, for law enforcement or national security reasons, cannot be tested in the public inspection system and must not be identified through the fleet testing system. For such vehicles, an autonomous fleet testing system may be established by agreement between the controlling agency and the director.

"Span gas" means gases of known concentration used as references to adjust or verify the accuracy of an exhaust gas analyzer that are approved by the department and are so labeled.

"Specially constructed vehicle" means any vehicle that was not originally constructed under a distinctive name, make, model, or type by a generally recognized manufacturer of vehicles and not a reconstructed vehicle as defined in this section.

"Specific engine family" means a group of motor vehicles with the same vehicle type, make, year, and engine size.

"Standardized instruments" or "standardizing instruments" means laboratory instruments calibrated with precision gases traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology and accepted by the department as the standards to be used for comparison purposes. All candidate instruments are compared in performance to the standardized instruments.

"Tactical military vehicle" means any motor vehicle designed to military specifications or a commercially designed motor vehicle modified to military specifications to meet direct transportation support of combat, tactical, or military relief operations, or training of personnel for such operations.

"Tampering" means to alter, remove, or otherwise disable or reduce the effectiveness of emissions control equipment on a motor vehicle.

"Test" means an emissions inspection of a vehicle, or any portion thereof, performed by an emissions inspector at an emissions inspection station, using the procedures and provisions set forth in this chapter.

"Test and repair" means motor vehicle emissions inspection stations that perform emissions inspections and may also perform vehicle repairs. No provision of this chapter shall bar emissions inspection stations from also performing vehicle repairs.

"Thermostatic air cleaner" means a system that supplies temperature-regulated air to the air intake system during engine operation.

"Two-speed idle test" or "TSI" means a vehicle exhaust emissions test, performed in accordance with section (II) of 40 CFR Part 51, Appendix B to Subpart S, which measures the concentrations of pollutants in the exhaust gases of an engine (i) while the motor vehicle transmission is not propelling the vehicle and (ii) while the engine is operated at both curb idle and at a nominal engine speed of 2,500 rpm.

"Vehicle emissions index" means the ranking of probable emissions inspection failure-rates of affected motor vehicles. Values within the index are determined by calculating a percentile of the historical emissions inspection failure-rates of a specific engine family, and comparing that to the historical emissions inspection failure-rates of all engine families in a specific model year group. Motor vehicles with the highest percentage of failure rates have the highest ranking on the index. Failure rates are based on the two most recent calendar years of emissions inspection test data from the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Program.

"Vehicle specific power" or "VSP" means an indicator expressed as a function of vehicle speed, acceleration, drag coefficient, tire rolling resistance, and roadway grade that is used to characterize the load a vehicle is operating under at the time and place a vehicle is measured by remote sensing equipment. It is calculated using the following formula:

VSP = 4.39 x Sine (Site Grade in Degrees/57.3) x Speed + K1 x Speed x Acceleration + K2 x Speed + K3 x Speed³.

Where:

VSP = vehicle specific power indicator;

Sine = the trigonometric function that for an acute angle is the ratio between the side opposite the angle when it is considered part of a right triangle and the hypotenuse;

Site Grade in Degrees = slope of road where remote sensing measurement is taken;

K1, K2, and K3 = empirically determined coefficients specific to the weight class of the vehicle;

Speed = rate of motion in miles per hour of vehicle at the time remote sensing measurement is taken; and

Acceleration = change in speed in miles per hour per second.

For light duty vehicles the values for K1, K2, and K3 are respectively 0.22, 0.0954, and 0.0000272. Based on EPA guidance, the department may develop different values for K1, K2, and K3 that are applicable to heavy duty vehicles or to specific classes of light duty vehicles.

"Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Program" means the program for the inspection and control of motor vehicle emissions established by Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law.

"Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law" means Article 22 (§ 46.2-1176 et seq.) of Chapter 10 of Title 46.2 of the Code of Virginia.

"Visible smoke" means any air pollutant, other than visible water droplets, consisting of black, gray, blue, or blue-black airborne particulate matter emanating from the exhaust system or crankcase. Visible smoke does not mean steam.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 3, eff. January 1, 1998; Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 21, Issue 19, eff. June 29, 2005; Volume 24, Issue 5, eff. December 12, 2007; Volume 25, Issue 6, eff. December 31, 2008; Volume 29, Issue 9, eff. December 15, 2012; Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013; Volume 31, Issue 23, eff. August 12, 2015; Volume 35, Issue 5, eff. November 28, 2018.

9VAC5-91-160. Exhaust emission standards for two-speed idle testing in enhanced emissions inspection programs.

Emission Standards for Motor Vehicle Air Pollution

A. No motor vehicle subject to the two-speed idle test shall discharge carbon monoxide (CO), or hydrocarbons (HC) in its exhaust emissions in excess of standards set forth in Table III-A when measured with a certified analyzer system and in accordance with the two-speed idle inspection procedures prescribed in Part VI (9VAC5-91-410 et seq.).

B. The measured concentration of CO plus CO₂ shall be greater than or equal to 6.0%.

C. The standards in Table III-A may be adjusted by no more than one percentage point for CO and 150 ppm for HC in order to meet the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency or the federal Clean Air Act.

Statutory Authority

§§ 46.2-1178.1, 46.2-1178.2 and 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the federal Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 21, Issue 19, eff. June 29, 2005.

9VAC5-91-170. Exhaust emission standards for ASM testing in enhanced emissions inspection programs.

A. No motor vehicle shall discharge carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), or oxides of nitrogen (NO_X) in its exhaust emissions in excess of standards set forth in tables in Part XIV (9VAC5-91-790 et seq.) when measured with a certified analyzer system and in accordance with the ASM inspection procedures prescribed in Part VI (9VAC5-91-410 et seq.).

B. The director may determine, based on results of emissions inspections verified by the department and in consultation with vehicle manufacturers, EPA or appropriate research organizations that emissions standards for specific vehicle models, model years, or weight classifications shall remain at the phase-in level as specified in 9VAC5-91-790 or be set at interim standards less stringent than the final standards rather than being adjusted to the final standards specified in 9VAC5-91-800.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-180. On-road high emitter emissions standards for on-road testing through remote sensing.

A. No affected motor vehicle shall exceed the on-road high emitter emissions standards for carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), or nitric oxide (NO) when measured with a remote sensing device and in accordance with the inspection procedures prescribed in Part XII (9VAC5-91-740 et seq.).

B. The on-road high emitter emissions standards for a vehicle shall be determined by multiplying the value in the Table III-B of 9VAC5-91-180 by the ASM 25-25 standard in 9VAC5-91-810 or two speed idle standard in Table III-A of 9VAC5-91-160 as is applicable for the vehicle.

C. Any affected motor vehicle determined to have exceeded any on-road high emitter emissions standards when measured by a remote sensing device in accordance with the procedures of Part XII (9VAC5-91-740 et seq.) may be subject to an emissions inspection at an emissions inspection station in accordance with Part XII (9VAC5-91-740 et seq.) or a civil charge in accordance with § 46.2-1178.1 B of the Code of Virginia, or both.

D. Any affected motor vehicle that exceeds the on-road high emitter emissions standards two days in any 120-day period shall be considered to have violated the emissions standards. In addition, the department may use the vehicle emissions index as a screening requirement.

E. Any affected motor vehicle that exceeds the on-road high emitter emissions standards once and is also determined to have a vehicle emissions index of greater than 75 shall be considered to have violated the on-road high emitter emissions standards.

F. All remote sensing measurements used to determine if a vehicle exceeds the on-road high emitter emissions standards shall be taken at valid sites under conditions at which the vehicle specific power (VSP) indicator is between 3 and 22. Standards for NO shall be corrected for VSP using the following formula:

NO standard = Low Range Value + (VSP-3)/

19 x (High Range Value - Low Range Value).

Where:

Low Range Value = the smaller values in Table III-B in the NO (ppm) Range column;

VSP = vehicle specific power indicator; and

High Range Value = the larger values in Table III-B in the NO (ppm) Range column.

G. The director may adjust the values in Table III-B if it is determined that an on-road high emitter emissions standard is causing a confirmation test pass rate in excess of 20% or less than 5.0%. Such adjustments may be for specific models within each model year group based on manufacturer's emissions control technology.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the federal Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 21, Issue 19, eff. June 29, 2005; Volume 29, Issue 9. eff. December 15, 2012.

9VAC5-91-185. Clean screen vehicle emissions standards for on-road testing.

A. Clean screen vehicles shall be identified by an on-road emissions inspector using on-road testing based on all of the following criteria until the provisions of subsection B of this section become effective according to the schedule in subsection D of 9VAC5-91-740:

1. Up to 5.0% of the number of vehicles measured during any 30-day period may be identified as clean screen vehicles. This percentage may be evaluated annually by the department and adjusted based on the amount of emissions reduction lost due to clean screening.

2. Vehicles that have the cleanest measurements based on an average of at least three measurements (taken on three different days in a 120-day time period) may be identified as clean screen vehicles.

3. Vehicles must have no measurements exceeding the on-road high emitter emissions standard within the 120-day time period as required in subdivision 2 of this subsection to be identified as clean screen vehicles.

4. Vehicles must not be equipped with an OBD system unless DEQ makes a determination to include certain OBD model years based on evidence that there would not be a significant loss in emissions reduction benefits.

B. Vehicles shall be identified as clean screen vehicles by an on-road emissions inspector using on-road testing based on the following criteria:

1. The vehicle is due for an emissions inspection test within 120 days;

2. The result of the most recent initial emissions test on record with the department is not a "fail";

3. No on-road emissions measurement since the most recent initial emissions test exceeds the on-road high emitter emissions standards as determined according to 9VAC5-91-180 B;

4. The two most recent on-road emissions measurements taken within 12 months of the registration expiration date shall not exceed the clean screen standards as determined in subsection D of this section and the vehicle must have a vehicle emissions index no greater than 80; or

5. The most recent on-road emissions measurement taken within 12 months of the registration expiration date shall not exceed the clean screen standards as determined in subsection D of this section and the vehicle shall have a vehicle emissions index no greater than 75.

C. On an annual basis, at least 2.0% of the vehicles meeting the clean screen criteria in subsection B of this section shall not be notified of the clean screen and may receive an emissions test at an emissions inspection station. The department shall analyze these test results to determine the effect of on-road testing on total emissions reductions. The director may decrease the maximum vehicle emissions index specified in subdivision B 4 and 5 of this section as necessary to ensure compliance with federal requirements in accordance with 9VAC5-91-740 F.

D. The clean screen vehicle standards are determined as a percentage of the values in Table III-C. The director may adjust the percentage between 50% to 80% to ensure compliance with federal requirements in accordance with 9VAC5-91-740 F.

E. The director may exempt certain vehicle models with known emissions related deficiencies.

F. Clean screen vehicles in accordance with subsections A and B of this section may be recorded as having passed the next emissions inspection required by § 46.2-1178 of the Code of Virginia and the result shall be entered into the emissions inspection record for that vehicle.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 9, eff. December 15, 2012; amended, Virginia Register Volume 35, Issue 5, eff. November 28, 2018.

9VAC5-91-190. Emissions control systems standards.

A. In accordance with § 46.2-1048 of the Code of Virginia, no owner or other person shall cause or permit the removal, disconnection, disabling or intentional alteration that reduces the effectiveness of an emissions control system or device that has been installed on a motor vehicle in accordance with federal laws and regulations.

B. No owner or other person shall attempt to defeat the purpose of any such motor vehicle emissions control system or device by installing any part or component that is not (i) a standard factory replacement part or component of the device or (ii) a part or component certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Control Program requirements.

C. The installation of any aftermarket parts approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or by the California Air Resources Board for installation as a part of a vehicle's emissions control equipment shall not be considered a violation of this section.

D. No owner or other person shall operate a motor vehicle or engine with the motor vehicle emissions control system or device removed, rendered inoperable or effectiveness reduced through intentional alteration.

E. The provisions of this section shall not prohibit or prevent shop adjustments or replacement, or both, of equipment for maintenance or repair, or the conversion of engines to low polluting fuels such as, but not limited to, natural gas or propane.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-200. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013.

9VAC5-91-210. Visible emissions standards.

A. No owner or other person shall cause or permit the emission of visible air pollutants from gasoline and other nondiesel fuel-powered motor vehicles for longer than five consecutive seconds after the engine has been brought up to operating temperature.

B. No owner or other person shall cause or permit the emission of visible air pollutants from diesel-powered motor vehicles of a density equal to or greater than 20% opacity for longer than 10 consecutive seconds after the engine has been brought up to operating temperature.

C. Compliance with opacity standards in this part shall be determined by conducting observations in accordance with Reference Method 9 or any alternative method. Opacity readings of portions of plumes that contain condensed, uncombined water vapor shall not be used for purposes of determining compliance with opacity standards.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-220. General provisions.

Permitting and Operation of Emissions Inspection Stations

A. The director shall issue, suspend, revoke or deny permits and establish procedures and other instructions for the operation of emissions inspection stations.

B. An emissions inspection station permit is valid only for the facility and owner identified on the permit and is not transferable to any other owner or facility. No facility shall be represented as an emissions inspection station unless the owner holds a valid permit issued by the director.

C. Transfer or sale of business, or changes in partnership, name or location shall require notification to the department and shall require a new permit. The emissions inspection station permit holder shall inform the department of any transfer or sale of the business or change in the name of the station, ownership, partnership, or name of lessee or operator within 10 days of such change.

D. All documents, permits, data media and other inspection related materials shall revert to the ownership of the department if the emissions inspection station is abandoned or if the emissions inspection business is discontinued by the permit holder.

E. Emissions inspection stations shall inspect all subject vehicles, which they are required by permit to inspect, in a timely manner and without prior repair or adjustment except to remedy conditions for which the vehicle is rejected from testing under the provisions of 9VAC5-91-420 C.

F. All emissions inspections, including retests, except for aborted tests, shall be conducted in their entirety according to the emission standards and test components contained in Parts III (9VAC5-91-160 et seq.), VI (9VAC5-91-410 et seq.) and XIV (9VAC5-91-790 et seq.) of this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-230. Applications.

A. Applications for permits shall be made to, and in accordance with procedures approved by, the department.

B. Applications for permits shall be signed by an officer of the corporation or by a duly authorized agent of the corporation; or by an equivalently responsible officer in the case of organizations other than corporations; or in other cases, by the owner; or in the case of governmental entities, by the highest executive official of such entities or his designee. A person is a duly authorized agent only if the authorization is made in writing by an officer of the corporation or by an equivalently responsible officer in the case of organizations other than corporations. Such signature shall constitute personal affirmation that the statements made in the application are true and complete to the best of the knowledge and belief of the signer.

C. An application for permit shall identify the facility for which application is made to become an emissions inspection station. A separate application is required for each facility and each facility requires a separate permit.

1. More than one inspection lane may be included in a single permit but, in such case, any enforcement action taken in regard to that permit shall apply to all lanes contained in the permit.

2. In the case of mobile fleet emissions inspection station permits, the application shall identify the fleet that will be tested as well as the planned dates and times of operations.

D. Applications for permits shall include such information as may be required by the department to determine compliance with applicable requirements of this chapter. The information required shall include, but is not limited to, the following:

1. The name of the applicant.

2. The street and mailing address of the facility or the permittee, or both, as determined by the department, and number of inspections lanes planned.

3. Demonstration that the analyzer system used by each facility for which a permit is requested complies with the provisions of Part X (9VAC5-91-640 et seq.).

4. Proof of business ownership, articles of incorporation, partnership agreements, and lease agreements and proof of conformity with local zoning, use, or business licensing laws, ordinances or regulations.

E. The applicant shall provide any other information that the department deems necessary to determine conformity with this chapter.

F. The applicant shall provide any subsequent changes to the information required under this section within 30 days of such change.

G. Application for a permit to test fleet vehicles using mobile testing equipment shall be made at least 30 days prior the commencement of any testing and must be signed by appropriate responsible persons of each party.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-240. Standards and conditions for permits.

A. No permit for an emissions inspection station or fleet emissions inspection station shall be issued unless the director determines that:

1. The station owner has obtained and properly installed an analyzer system certified by the department, tools and electronic data processing and other equipment to adequately conduct the required emissions inspection in the manner prescribed by this chapter;

2. The station owner has employed properly trained and licensed personnel to perform the necessary emissions inspections;

3. For mobile fleet emissions inspection stations, a fleet emissions inspection permit has been issued for the fleet that will be tested; and

4. The station owner has complied with all other requirements of this chapter which pertain to emissions inspection stations.

B. No permit shall be issued to a facility which has a permit currently under suspension by the director until such suspension period has elapsed.

C. No permit shall be issued pursuant to this section unless it is shown to the satisfaction of the director that the emissions inspection station shall operate without causing a violation of the applicable provisions of this chapter and the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law.

D. Any permit applicant whose permit has been revoked shall make a showing to the director that the condition causing the revocation has been corrected to the satisfaction of the director and in accordance with 9VAC5-91-610.

E. Permits issued under this section shall contain, but not be limited to, the following elements:

1. The street address of the facility or the permittee, or both;

2. The name of the permittee or permittees;

3. The expiration date of the permit; and

4. Other requirements as may be necessary to ensure compliance with this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§§ 46.2-1178.1, 46.2-1179, 46.2-1180, and 46.2-1187.2 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997.

9VAC5-91-250. Action on permit application.

A. After receipt of an application or any additional information, the department shall advise the applicant of any deficiency in such application or information.

B. Processing time for a permit is normally 90 days following receipt of a complete application. The department may extend this time period if additional information is required. Processing steps may include, but not be limited to:

1. Completion of a preliminary review and a preliminary decision of the director;

2. Inspection or audit of the facility; and

3. Completion of the final review and the final decision of the director.

C. The director normally will take action on all applications after completion of the review, unless more information is needed. The director shall issue the permit or notify the applicant in writing of the decision, with the reasons, not to issue the permit.

Statutory Authority

§§ 46.2-1178.1, 46.2-1179, 46.2-1180, and 46.2-1187.2 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997.

9VAC5-91-260. Emissions inspection station permits, categories.

A. A permit shall be issued to a qualified applicant in the following categories, as determined by the department.

1. Emissions inspection station.

2. Fleet emissions inspection station meeting the requirements of 9VAC5-91-370.

3. Sensitive mission vehicle emissions fleet inspection station.

B. In accordance with § 46.2-1180 A 5 of the Code of Virginia, the director may issue special permits for the operation of emissions inspections facilities in geographic areas which have been determined by the department, based on the number of available emissions inspection facilities or lanes relative to vehicle population density, to be inadequately covered. Such stations may have special permit conditions which restrict their operational hours, geographic location, data connection, quality control or other processes in order to effectively address the need and the intent of the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law.

C. A permit shall be valid only for the emissions inspection station and operator, owner or lessee to which it is issued and shall not be valid for any other emissions inspection station nor any other operator, owner or lessee.

D. A permit shall be valid for time periods determined by the department, not to exceed three years from the end of the month in which the permit or permit renewal was issued.

E. Upon expiration of the permit, the emissions inspection station shall no longer be authorized to perform inspections.

F. A permit shall expire whenever the owner voluntarily discontinues the operation of an emissions inspection station. Remaining emissions inspection materials shall be returned to the department immediately.

G. A permit shall expire and documents or data media related to emissions inspections, reinspections, waivers and audits shall become the property of the department when the owner of record abandons the place of business and cannot be located.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-270. Permit renewals.

A. Renewals of permits shall be subject to the same provisions of this chapter as are original permits.

B. It is the responsibility of the emissions inspection station to have a current valid permit. The department will endeavor to notify emissions inspection stations prior to the expiration of their permit.

C. When supported by justification which the department deems adequate, the director may, upon request by a station owner, extend the expiration date of a permit by a period not to exceed three months beyond the original expiration date for the purpose of allowing sufficient time for a station owner to correct such deficiencies in the application as have been identified by the department and to allow completion of the application review by the department.

D. It is the responsibility of the emissions inspection station to notify the department of the expiration of a suspension period.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-280. Permit revocation, surrender of materials.

Upon notice of revocation, emissions inspection stations shall surrender to the department all permits, forms, data media and documents issued by or purchased from the department.

Statutory Authority

§§ 46.2-1178.1, 46.2-1179, 46.2-1180, and 46.2-1187.2 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997.

9VAC5-91-290. Emissions inspection station operations.

A. Emissions inspection station operations shall be conducted in accordance with applicable statutes and this chapter.

B. Emissions inspection stations shall cooperate with the department during the conduct of audits, investigations and complaint resolutions.

C. Emissions inspection stations, except fleet emissions inspection stations permitted under 9VAC5-91-370, shall conduct emissions inspections during normal business hours and shall inspect every vehicle presented for inspection within a reasonable time period.

D. Emissions inspection stations that have performed a chargeable initial inspection that resulted in a test failure or failed invalid result shall provide one free reinspection on the same vehicle upon request within 14 calendar days of the initial inspection test failure or failed invalid result.

E. Emissions inspection stations finding it necessary to suspend inspections due to analyzer system malfunction or any other reason shall refund any inspection fee collected when a station cannot accommodate a customer's request for a free reinspection in accordance with subsection D of this section and 9VAC5-91-420 M.

F. Emissions inspection stations shall notify the department when they are unable to perform emissions inspections for any reason and shall notify the department when they are able to resume inspections.

G. Emissions inspection stations shall:

1. Employ at least one emissions inspector.

2. Have an emissions inspector on duty during posted emissions inspection hours, except for fleet emissions inspection stations permitted under 9VAC5-91-370.

3. Only allow licensed emissions inspectors to conduct inspections.

H. Emissions inspection stations shall provide to emissions inspection customers any information that has been provided to the emissions inspection station by the department and that is intended to be provided to the customer.

I. Emissions inspection stations shall allow emissions inspection customers to have viewing access to the inspection process.

J. Emissions inspections and vehicle safety inspections may be performed in the same service bay provided that the facility is both an emissions inspection station and an official safety inspection station in accordance with §§ 46.2-1163 and 46.2-1166 of the Code of Virginia.

K. Emissions inspections may be performed in the inspection area of the emissions inspection station or, if by wireless means, in any other area on the premises of the emissions inspection station provided that all applicable test components can be performed at that location.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 29, Issue 9, eff. December 15, 2012; Volume 35, Issue 5, eff. November 28, 2018.

9VAC5-91-300. Emissions inspection station records.

A. Emissions inspection stations shall have records available at the station for inspection by the department any time during normal business hours.

B. Test, waiver, and repair records, as appropriate, shall be maintained by the permittee for 12 months or until transferred to the department.

C. Certificates of vehicle emissions inspection and motor vehicle inspection reports shall be issued only by emissions inspection stations holding valid permits issued by the department.

D. Documents and data pertaining to emissions inspections and waivers shall be kept in a secure location and only be available to emissions inspectors or authorized personnel, as approved by the department.

E. Missing or stolen emissions inspection data or other official documents shall be reported to the department within 24 hours.

F. Emissions inspection stations shall be accountable for all documents and media issued to them by the department. Emissions inspection stations shall be subject to quality assurance and control procedures as defined in 40 CFR 51.363.

G. Emissions inspection stations shall maintain a file of the name, address, and inspector identification number of all currently employed emissions inspectors authorized by the permittee to perform emissions inspections at that emissions inspection station and shall notify the department of any changes within 10 days of such changes. The emissions inspection station shall provide the file to the department upon request.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-310. Sign and permit posting.

A. Emissions inspection stations shall post a sign, approved or provided by the department, which conforms to local ordinances or codes, designating the location as a Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Program Inspection Station in a conspicuous location on the permitted premises, within view of the public.

B. Emissions inspection station permits shall be posted in a frame, in a conspicuous place on the permitted premises, within view of the public and approved by the department.

C. Emissions inspection stations shall post the following in a conspicuous location on the permitted premises, within view of the public, and in a manner approved by the department:

1. The fees charged for emissions inspections; and

2. The hours of operation for emissions inspections;

D. Emissions inspection stations shall post all signs required by this chapter in a location approved by the department and in a manner that does not violate local sign ordinances or codes.

E. Fleet emissions inspection stations and mobile fleet emissions inspection stations permitted under 9VAC5-91-370 shall be exempt from the sign posting requirements in subsections A and C of this section.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-320. Equipment and facility requirements.

A. Emissions inspection stations shall have adequate facilities and equipment, including all current reference and application guides, as specified in subsection D of this section to perform all elements of the emissions inspection.

B. Emissions inspection stations shall be equipped in accordance with this chapter and applicable statutes.

C. Emissions inspection stations which no longer meet the requirements of this part shall cease inspection operations and may be subject to enforcement actions in accordance with Part IX (9VAC5-91-590 et seq.).

D. Emissions inspection stations shall be equipped with the following equipment, tools and reference materials at all times. Fleet and mobile fleet emissions inspection stations shall be so equipped during inspection periods reported to the department.

1. A certified analyzer system in accordance with Part X (9VAC5-91-640 et seq.) capable of conducting OBD testing as specified in 9VAC5-91-420 G 3.

2. Span gases approved by the department and equipment for performing gas span checks.

3. Hand tools and equipment for the proper performance of all inspections as approved by the department.

4. A current emissions control systems application guide which contains a quick reference for emissions control systems and their uses on specific make, model, and model year vehicles. This may be in an electronic form.

5. Analyzer manufacturer's maintenance and calibration manual.

6. Certified thermometer.

7. Suitable nonreactive exhaust hoses or a ventilation system that conforms to The BOCA National Mechanical Code/1993 (see 9VAC5-91-50) for automotive service stations and for facilities in which vehicle engines are operated in excess of 10 continuous seconds and which conforms to the applicable local building or safety code, zoning ordinance, or Occupational Safety and Health Administration requirement.

a. The ventilation system shall discharge the vehicle exhaust outside the building.

b. The flow of the exhaust collection system shall not cause dilution of the exhaust at the sample point in the probe.

8. A cooling fan, used to ventilate the engine compartment, which is capable of generating at least 3,000 standard cubic feet per minute of air flow directed at the vehicle's cooling system at a distance of 12 inches.

9. This regulation (9VAC5-91).

10. Telephone.

11. Dedicated phone line or web-based internet connection for use by the analyzer system in emissions inspection stations except fleet emissions inspection stations which have been authorized by the director to use a nondedicated phone line pursuant to an agreement between the director and the fleet emissions inspection station, based on vehicle maintenance or registration cycles.

12. Department approved paper for use in the analyzer system printer.

13. Reference material suitable for making a determination, as applicable, of the proper exhaust emissions test type to be administered. This may be in electronic form.

E. Emissions inspection stations shall maintain equipment, tools, and reference materials in proper working order and available at the emissions inspection station at all times.

F. It is the responsibility of the permit holder to maintain a safe and healthy working environment for the conduct of emissions inspections.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the federal Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 29, Issue 9, eff. December 15, 2012.

9VAC5-91-330. Analyzer system operation.

Emissions inspections stations shall be equipped with a dynamometer and a functional analyzer system certified in accordance with Part X (9VAC5-91-640 et seq.) and maintained and operated in accordance with the following:

1. Emissions inspection stations shall supply and maintain a functional dynamometer in such a manner that will permit the proper operation in accordance with the requirements of the manufacturer, this chapter, applicable statutes, and any procedures developed by the department.

2. The exhaust gas analyzer shall be gas spanned and leak checked according to 40 CFR Part 51, Appendix A to Subpart S or other procedure as approved by the department.

3. No additions or modifications shall be made to the analyzer system unless approved by the analyzer system manufacturer and the department.

a. All repairs to the analyzer system must be performed by an authorized manufacturer representative according to 9VAC5-91-670 B and C or a program coordinator in accordance with 9VAC5-91-675 as applicable.

b. No analyzer system replacement parts shall be used that are not original equipment replacement, or equivalent, as approved by the department.

4. No person shall tamper with or circumvent any system or function of the analyzer.

5. Emissions inspection stations shall be responsible for preventing any tampering with or unauthorized use of the dynamometer and the analyzer or their functions.

6. Analyzer system lockout conditions shall be removed only by authorized service or department personnel.

7. The analyzer system shall be capable of electronically transmitting to and receiving data from the department computer network related to the administration of the Virginia Vehicle Emissions Control Program.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013.

9VAC5-91-340. Motor vehicle inspection report; certificate of emissions inspection.

A. Emissions inspection stations and emissions inspectors shall be responsible for ensuring that all motor vehicle inspection reports are legible, and properly completed and printed with correct information appearing in the correct location on the form and shall notify immediately the department and the vehicle operator of any incorrect information appearing on the form.

B. Emissions inspectors and emissions inspection stations shall be responsible for ensuring that all emissions inspection results are properly communicated to the department and to the vehicle operator. The use of the motor vehicle inspection report may serve as proper communication to the vehicle operator.

C. Certificates of vehicle emissions inspection shall be used only for documentation of official test results.

D. Certificates of emissions inspections and motor vehicle inspection reports shall be issued only by licensed emissions inspectors employed by permitted emissions inspection stations.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 35, Issue 5, eff. November 28, 2018.

9VAC5-91-350. Data media.

Data media used for the collection of official test data shall become property of the department.

Statutory Authority

§§ 46.2-1178.1, 46.2-1179, 46.2-1180, and 46.2-1187.2 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997.

9VAC5-91-360. Inspector identification number and access code usage.

A. The department shall assign each emissions inspector a unique number and numerical code known as an inspector identification number and an access code to gain access to the analyzer system at the inspector's place of employment. Biometric identification may be used in place of an access code.

B. Access codes and identification numbers shall be added and deleted only by department personnel.

C. An inspector identification number and access code shall be used only by the inspector to whom it was assigned.

D. An inspector's name printed on a motor vehicle inspection report shall be an endorsement that the entire test was performed by the inspector whose name appears on the vehicle inspection report. Each inspector must sign his full name on the vehicle inspection report for each emissions inspection conducted.

E. Emissions inspection stations and emissions inspectors shall report any unauthorized use of an inspector identification number or access code to the department within 24 hours of the discovery of unauthorized use.

F. Emissions inspection stations and inspectors shall be responsible for any violation or fraudulent inspection which occurs using inspector identification numbers or access codes.

G. Emissions inspection stations shall be responsible for all certificates of vehicle emissions inspection and motor vehicle inspection reports issued by that emissions inspection station.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013; Volume 35, Issue 5, eff. November 28, 2018.

9VAC5-91-370. Fleet emissions inspection stations; mobile fleet emissions inspection stations.

A. The owner of a fleet may be issued a permit as a fleet emissions inspection station and may conduct inspections of that fleet or contract to have such inspections conducted. As a fleet inspection station, inspections shall be conducted only on vehicles commonly owned, operated, leased, or rented by that person or political subdivision and not for employees or the general public. A fleet emissions inspection station owner shall comply with all applicable requirements for emissions inspection stations except those from which they are specifically exempted by this chapter or by special terms or conditions of a special permit issued according to 9VAC5-91-260 A 3.

B. Fleet emissions inspection station owners may, upon application and granted permit, have fleet vehicles inspected through the use of mobile emissions inspection stations which have obtained a permit from the director to conduct inspections of that fleet.

C. Fleet emissions inspection station owners using mobile fleet emissions inspections equipment shall notify the department of the planned dates, times and location of intended inspections not later than two weeks prior to testing and, upon request by the department, shall provide a list of vehicles to be inspected.

D. Each fleet emissions inspection station owner is responsible for all vehicle emissions inspection records and data for vehicles inspected in that facility.

E. Fleet owners and fleet emissions inspection station owners shall provide a list that includes vehicle compliance status, updated annually, of affected motor vehicles.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-500. Applicability and authority.

Vehicle Emissions Repair Facility Certification

A. The director shall issue, deny, suspend or revoke certification and establish procedures and other instructions for the operation of vehicle emissions repair facilities where vehicle emissions related repairs will apply toward a vehicle emissions inspection waiver.

B. The provisions of this part apply to current certified facilities and applicants for initial certifications, renewals of certification, reinstatements and requalifications.

C. The director shall issue a certification for any emissions repair facility qualified or requalified under 9VAC5-91-510 except facilities whose suspension period has not expired.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-510. Certification qualifications.

A. Application for certification shall be made to the department in accordance with procedures approved by the department.

B. Applicants shall demonstrate to the department the ability to conform to this chapter.

C. Certifications shall be valid only to the emissions repair facility, owner, or lessee for which it is issued and may not be transferred or used at any other emissions repair facility nor by any other owner.

D. Transfer or sale of business, or changes in partnership, name or location shall require notification to the department and shall require new certification.

E. The department may require proof of business ownership, articles of incorporation, partnership agreements and lease agreements prior to certification of an emissions repair facility.

F. All emissions repair facility certification documentation shall be posted in a conspicuous place on the certified premises, within view of the public and approved by the department.

G. Certification is valid for time periods determined by the department, not to exceed three years from the end of the month in which certified. The director may extend such certification once, for up to six months from the original expiration date, if shown that the availability of training or equipment prevent recertification prior to expiration.

H. Equipment, tools, and reference materials, including but not limited to the following list, are required to be available in certified emissions repair facilities contingent on commercial availability.

1. For vehicles subject to the Northern Virginia emissions inspection program and serviced by that emissions repair facility, current reference material, either in manual or electronic form, to include:

a. Emissions control systems and application guides.

b. Emissions related repair guides.

2. Necessary tools and equipment, either as components or as a complete system, for emissions related repairs as listed below:

a. A four-gas exhaust emissions analyzer capable of analyzing exhaust emissions from vehicles on which emissions repairs are being performed.

b. Oscilloscope or other automotive analyzer capable of displaying ignition patterns, cylinder power contributions, and square wave and injection patterns of vehicles.

c. Ammeter, DC.

d. Ohmmeter.

e. Voltmeter, AC/DC.

f. Tachometer, RPM meter.

g. Fuel pressure gauge capable of fuel injection diagnosis.

h. Ignition timing light with timing advance meter and adjustment.

i. Compression test gauge and cylinder leak-down tester.

j. Vacuum pump with gauge for applying simulated manifold vacuum to emissions control devices.

k. Scan tools, supplemental analyzer provisions, or detailed reference materials sufficient to allow the extraction and interpretation of computer fault codes from any vehicle being repaired that is equipped with an exhaust gas oxygen sensor and malfunction indicator light.

l. OBD scan tool designed to interface with OBD vehicles meeting the requirements of 40 CFR 85.2231.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-520. Expiration, reinstatement, renewal, and requalification.

A. Upon expiration, suspension, or revocation of certification or inability to conform to the qualifications for certification, vehicle emissions related repairs performed by the emissions repair facility shall no longer be applicable toward a vehicle emissions inspection waiver as described in 9VAC5-91-420 N until such time as the facility's certification is reinstated or the facility meets the qualifications for certification.

B. A new application is required after revocation or expiration of the certification.

C. The director shall reinstate an emissions repair facility certification at the end of a suspension period upon notification by the facility that the suspension period has ended.

D. Requalification may be required at any time by the department based on the results of monitoring of emissions repair facility performance or changes in applicable vehicle emissions control or repair technology.

E. If an emissions repair facility fails to become requalified within 90 days after notice of requalification requirement by the department, the certification shall expire.

F. The department will endeavor to notify facilities prior to the expiration of certification. However, it is the responsibility of the emissions repair facility to have a current valid certification.

G. Expiration of certification or revocation of certification shall require reapplication.

H. Upon expiration or notification of revocation, the emissions repair facility shall surrender to the department all certification documents issued by the department.

I. Any applicant whose certification has been revoked shall make a showing to the director that the condition causing the revocation has been corrected to the satisfaction of the director.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-530. Emissions repair facility operations.

A. Emissions repair facilities shall maintain applicable repair and certification related records available for inspection and audit by the department any time during normal business hours for 12 months.

B. Emissions repair facilities shall employ at least one certified emissions repair technician during posted emissions repair station hours. Facilities shall immediately notify the department if repairs applicable toward a waiver are unable to be performed for any reason.

C. Emissions repair facility operations shall be conducted in accordance with applicable statutes and this chapter.

D. Emissions repair facilities shall provide emissions repair data and other such information related to repair effectiveness as required by the department in accordance with subsection A of this section for the purposes of emissions related repair performance monitoring. The facilities shall ensure that emissions repair data forms are (i) properly and completely filled-out, (ii) signed by the certified emissions repair technician employed by that facility who performed, supervised or approved the repairs, and (iii) provided to the customer along with a receipt, invoice or repair order for the work performed.

E. No facility shall be represented as a certified emissions repair facility unless a valid certification has been issued for that facility by the director.

F. Emissions repair facilities shall cooperate with the department during the conduct of audits, investigations, and complaint resolutions.

G. Equipment, tools, and reference materials must be maintained in proper working order.

H. Emissions repair facilities shall maintain a file of the name, address, and identification number of all currently employed certified emissions repair technicians and shall provide such information to the department upon request.

I. Repairs to qualify toward the waiver cost threshold shall be conducted in accordance with 9VAC5-91-420 N, 9VAC5-91-480 C and 9VAC5-91-580 D.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the federal Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 35, Issue 5, eff. November 28, 2018.

9VAC5-91-540. Sign and certificate posting.

A. Emissions repair facilities performing emissions related repairs for the public shall post a sign approved or provided by the department designating the location as a certified vehicle emissions repair facility in a conspicuous location on the premises, in view of the public and approved by the department.

B. Emissions repair facility certificates shall be posted in a frame, in a conspicuous place on the permitted premises, within view of the public and approved by the department.

C. Emissions repair facilities performing emissions related repairs for the public shall post all signs in a manner consistent with local sign ordinances or codes.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 35, Issue 5, eff. November 28, 2018.

9VAC5-91-550. Applicability and authority.

Emissions Repair Technician Certification and Responsibilities

A. The director shall issue, deny, suspend or revoke certifications to perform emissions related adjustments and repairs which are intended to apply towards a vehicle emissions inspection waiver.

B. The provisions of this part apply to current certified technicians and applicants for initial certifications, renewals, requalifications and any reinstatement of certification.

C. The director shall issue a certification to any person qualified or requalified under 9VAC5-91-560 except persons whose suspension period has not expired.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-560. Certification qualifications for emissions repair technicians.

A. Application for certification under this part shall be made to the department and in accordance with procedures approved by the department.

B. Applicants shall demonstrate to the department the ability to conform with applicable motor vehicle laws and this chapter.

C. Certification is valid only for the person to whom it is issued.

D. Emissions repair technicians may be certified to perform emissions related repairs at more than one certified station.

E. Certification is valid for a time period determined by the department, not to exceed three years from the end of the month in which issued. The director may extend such certification once, for up to six months from the date of original expiration, if shown that the availability of training or equipment prevent recertification prior to expiration.

F. The requirements for emissions repair technician certification are as follows:

1. The certification process shall be administered by the department or its agent according to procedures of the department. Before applicants are certified, they must comply with the requirements of this section. The department will notify applicants of the certification requirements prior to testing.

2. An applicant shall demonstrate knowledge, skill, and competence concerning the adjustment and repair of vehicle emissions control systems. Such knowledge, skill and competence shall be demonstrated by passing a qualification test and certification process, which may include training, as approved by the department. Such demonstration may include knowledge of the following:

a. Operation and purpose of emissions control systems.

b. Relationship of hydrocarbon, oxides of nitrogen and carbon monoxide emissions to timing and air-to-fuel ratio control and vehicle load as applicable to the emissions inspection required.

c. Adjustment and repair to manufacturers' specifications.

d. Contemporary diagnostic and engine tune-up procedures.

e. Emissions related adjustment and repair requirements for all vehicles failing an emissions inspection, in particular, the adjustment and repair of those systems described in 9VAC5-91-480.

f. Other such relevant emissions related repair criteria, as determined by the department.

g. Other provisions of this chapter applicable to emissions related repair.

G. Any applicant whose certification has been revoked shall make a showing to the director that the condition causing the revocation has been corrected to the satisfaction of the director.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-570. Expiration, reinstatement, renewal and requalification.

A. Upon expiration, suspension, or revocation of the certification, the emissions repair technician shall no longer be authorized to perform emissions related repairs and have them apply toward emissions inspection waivers as described in 9VAC5-91-420 M.

B. Certification of an emissions repair technician is required as a result of revocation or expiration of the certification.

C. The director shall reinstate certification of an emissions repair technician at the end of a suspension period upon notification by the emissions repair technician that the suspension period has ended.

D. Requalification may be required at any time by the department based on the results of monitoring of the performance of the emissions repair technician or based on changes in applicable vehicle emissions control or repair technology. Failure to requalify within three months of notification shall result in expiration of the emissions repair technician certification.

E. The department will endeavor to notify technicians prior to the expiration of their certification. However, it is the responsibility of the emissions repair technician to maintain a current certification.

F. Upon expiration or notification of revocation or suspension, the technician shall surrender to the department all certification documents issued by the department.

G. Requalification requirements for all emissions repair technicians.

1. When necessary to update the technical qualifications of emissions repair technicians, or when technician performance monitoring indicates a need for additional training or other action, holders of emissions repair technician certifications shall be required to requalify.

2. Emissions repair technicians shall be required to requalify within 90 days from the date of written notification by the department. Notice of this requirement shall be mailed, by postal or electronic delivery, to the address of record as maintained by the department. The notice shall inform the person of the necessity of requalification and the nature of such skills, systems, and procedures requiring the training for the continued performance as an emissions repair technician. The notice shall give the name and location of training sources approved or accredited for purposes of retraining, the necessity of requalification by a certain date, and the nature and evidence of documentation to be filed with the department evidencing such requalification.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013.

9VAC5-91-580. Certified emissions repair technician responsibilities.

A. No person shall represent himself as a certified emissions repair technician without holding a valid certification issued by the director.

B. Certification documents shall be available on the premises where the emissions repair technician is performing emissions related repairs and available to department personnel upon request.

C. Emissions repair technicians shall keep their current mailing address and place of employment on file with the department.

D. Certified emissions repair technicians shall properly complete and sign forms, including but not limited to the repair section of the vehicle emissions inspection report, indicating the diagnosis or reason for failure of the emissions inspection, the type of emissions related repair work performed, the itemized and total cost of such repairs, and provide other data the department requires for consideration of emissions inspection waiver requests. The technician shall sign only repair data forms for repairs that were performed or supervised by the technician while on duty at the repair facility.

E. All emissions repair technicians shall cooperate with the department during the conduct of audits, investigations and complaint resolution.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-590. Enforcement of regulations, permits, licenses, certifications and orders.

Enforcement Procedures

A. Licensees, permittees, certified emissions repair technicians and certified emissions repair facilities shall be subject to the provisions of this chapter, be responsible for their own actions and be responsible for the actions of persons employed by them.

B. A violation of the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law, any provision of this chapter or any permit, license, certification or order shall be cause for a notice of violation to be served on the alleged violator, citing the applicable provisions of the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law, this chapter, the permit, license, certification requirement or order, or any combination thereof involved, and the facts on which the alleged violation is based.

C. Owners are responsible for the overall operation of the emissions inspection station or emissions repair facilities including the actions of its employees and any licensed emissions inspector or certified emissions repair technician working at that station or facility and may be issued a notice of violation for any violation of this chapter by such persons.

D. A notice of violation may be addressed through a consent order or through the informal fact finding or formal hearing process.

E. The director or a designated representative shall issue and sign consent orders, conduct informal fact findings and formal hearings and make all case decisions. Formal hearings shall be conducted in accordance with § 2.2-4020 of the Administrative Process Act.

F. Nothing in this chapter shall prevent the department from negotiating a consent order in lieu of a penalty in any case.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 12, eff. April 2, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-600. General enforcement process.

A. Upon issuance of a notice of violation, attempts shall be made to negotiate a consent order. The negotiation process may take the form of two tiers, the first involving negotiations with the department field staff. The second tier involves subsequent negotiations with the department's management personnel for regional compliance, mobile sources operations, or enforcement if the first tier negotiations are unsuccessful and the alleged violator wishes to continue negotiations.

B. If the parties cannot agree on a consent order, an informal fact finding shall be held after reasonable notice in accordance with § 2.2-4019 of the Administrative Process Act. Upon consent of all parties, the informal fact finding may be waived and a formal hearing shall be held after reasonable notice in accordance with § 2.2-4020 of the Administrative Process Act. During these proceedings, the department and the alleged violator may present facts and circumstances surrounding the alleged violation in accordance with the Administrative Process Act.

C. A formal hearing shall be held to suspend emissions inspection station permits, unless the parties agree to hold an informal fact finding and waive a formal hearing and agree that the decision from the informal fact finding is the final decision for purposes of Article V (§ 2.2-4025 et seq.) of the Administrative Process Act.. An emissions inspection station permit may be suspended pursuant to an informal fact finding, provided a formal hearing is held within 10 days from the date of suspension in accordance with § 46.2-1185 of the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law and § 2.2-4020 of the Administrative Process Act.

D. As provided in § 46.2-1185 of the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law, the director can summarily suspend an emissions inspection station permit without a formal hearing and require the permit holder to immediately cease performing emissions inspections. Within 10 days of such action, a formal hearing shall be held to affirm, modify, amend, or cancel the suspension unless the affected party agrees to waive the formal hearing and allow the suspension to remain in effect.

E. With respect to appeals of penalties imposed pursuant to an informal fact finding, the presiding officer shall be a designee of the director other than the regional emissions inspection program manager or any emissions inspection program staff member.

F. Any case decision made pursuant to an informal fact finding must be in writing, must inform the alleged violator of the penalty being imposed and the basis for any adverse decision, and must inform the named party of his right to appeal.

1. Any affected party has the right to request a formal hearing to appeal an adverse decision from an informal fact finding unless the parties agree before the decision is rendered to waive the formal hearing and that the decision shall be considered a final decision for purposes of Article V (§ 2.2-4025 et seq.) of the Administrative Process Act.

2. A written informal fact finding decision shall contain a statement that the affected party has the right to request a formal hearing in order to appeal the decision within 10 days of notification of the decision or, if previously agreed by the parties, that the decision is final and the affected party has the right to appeal the decision to court.

3. Any request for a formal hearing shall be made within 10 days of notification of the decision by the affected party, in writing, to the department representative who made the informal fact finding decision.

G. Case decisions made pursuant to a formal hearing shall be made by the director or a designated representative. They must be in writing and contain findings of fact and conclusions of law that set forth the basis for any adverse decision, inform the alleged violator of the penalty being imposed and inform the named party of his right to appeal that decision to court.

H. All permits, licenses and certifications shall be surrendered to the department upon notice of revocation. Emissions inspection stations and emissions repair facilities shall also surrender to the department all forms, data media and documents issued by or purchased from the department.

I. If the case decision is a final decision for purposes of Article V (§ 2.2-4025 et seq.) of the Administrative Process Act, the department need not act further except to enforce any penalty or order issued pursuant to the decision.

J. If the director determines that a permittee, licensee, or holder of a certification is not complying with the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law, this chapter, any case decision, penalty or consent order issued pursuant to this chapter, the director may seek appropriate criminal or civil judicial enforcement, or both, in accordance with §§ 46.2-1187 and 46.2-1187.2 of the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 12, eff. April 2, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-610. Consent orders and penalties for violations.

A. Penalties for violations of the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law, this chapter, permits, licenses, certifications, and orders include letters of reprimand, probation, suspension, and revocation.

B. Penalties may be imposed as a result of an informal fact finding or formal hearing, and may be negotiated by the parties for inclusion in consent orders.

C. A consent order shall contain an agreed-to penalty in the form of a letter of reprimand, probationary period, or suspension, or a civil charge, a combination thereof, or other agreed upon actions.

D. For any minor violation, as described in 9VAC5-91-630, the director may negotiate or impose pursuant to an informal fact finding or formal hearing:

1. A letter of reprimand.

2. For the second minor violation within 24 months, a letter of reprimand and a probationary period not to exceed 12 months.

E. For any major violation, as described in 9VAC5-91-620, the director may negotiate or impose pursuant to an informal fact finding or formal hearing:

1. A letter of reprimand.

2. A letter of reprimand and a probationary period not to exceed 12 months.

3. A suspension of a permit, license or certification followed by a probationary period not to exceed 12 months.

4. A revocation of a permit, license or certification.

F. Suspensions shall be for a period not to exceed one year.

G. In the case of multiple violations, suspensions may run concurrently.

H. No application for a permit, license, or certification from a person whose permit, license, or certification has been revoked shall be considered by the director until (i) 12 months have elapsed from the date of revocation and (ii) until the conditions of 9VAC5-91-240 D, 9VAC5-91-390 D, 9VAC5-91-520 I or 9VAC5-91-560 G have been satisfied.

I. Emissions inspectors, certified emissions repair technicians and certified emissions repair facilities are subject to the same penalties that may be imposed on emissions inspection station permit holders. Such penalties shall be imposed separately on each affected party only as part of a consent order or through an informal fact finding or formal hearing. The director shall consider a party's level of responsibility for the violation in negotiating a consent order or in imposing a particular level of penalty pursuant to an informal fact finding or a formal hearing.

J. Any intentional falsification of an emissions inspection shall result in a revocation; or in a suspension of the inspector's license, or the station permit for not less than six months, or an equivalent civil charge, or both.

K. As a condition of probation, terms may be imposed during the probationary period that must be complied with by the violator. The terms may include a requirement that the permittee, licensee, or certified repair technician perform additional or periodic demonstrations of competency or obtain additional training. Completion of such terms to the satisfaction of the department may serve as a basis for reducing the probationary period.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 12, eff. April 2, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-620. Major violations.

A. Major violations are considered the most serious of offenses resulting from unacceptable performances in the conduct of emissions inspections, the operation of emissions analyzer systems, and the conduct of emissions related repairs. Such violations are of a nature that would directly affect the integrity, credibility, and emissions reduction effectiveness of the vehicle emissions inspection program.

B. A violation of the following provisions of this chapter by any person or facility whether or not permitted, licensed or certified, shall constitute a major violation:

9VAC5-91-220 B, C, E, F

9VAC5-91-290 B, C, D, E, G

9VAC5-91-300 B, C

9VAC5-91-320 A, D

9VAC5-91-330

9VAC5-91-340 A, D

9VAC5-91-360 B, C, E

9VAC5-91-370 A, C

9VAC5-91-380 F, I

9VAC5-91-400

9VAC5-91-410

9VAC5-91-420 (except D 4)

9VAC5-91-430 A 1, 2, 3, 5, 8

9VAC5-91-440 A 1, 7

9VAC5-91-450 A, C, D

9VAC5-91-480 A

9VAC5-91-490 A, B, C

9VAC5-91-510 C, H

9VAC5-91-530 A, B, D, E, F, G

9VAC5-91-560 C

9VAC5-91-580 A, D, E

9VAC5-91-640 B

C. Obtaining a permit, license or certification by false statement or misrepresentation or operating under a permit, license or certification while not in compliance with the conditions for such permit, license, or certification is a major violation and shall be grounds for revocation.

D. Use of alcohol or illegal drugs while performing emissions inspections or emissions-related repair, or performing emissions inspections or emissions-related repair while under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, shall be considered a major violation and shall be grounds for revocation of the license, permit or certificate.

E. Any third and subsequent minor violation within 24 months shall be considered a major violation.

F. Any violation of the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Law and this chapter that is not specifically identified in this section may be treated as a major violation if the director determines on a case-by-case basis that the violation fits the criteria for major violations set forth in subsection A of this section.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 12, eff. April 2, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-630. Minor violations.

A. Although they may not necessarily directly affect emissions reduction effectiveness, minor violations are considered to be serious enough to influence the overall effectiveness of the Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Program, and pertain to station operations, quality assurance, quality control, unacceptable security of documents and records, maintenance of certain required equipment and systems, emissions repair efficiency and such other items as are necessary to maintain program uniformity, and to ensure the ability to function as a permittee, licensee or certified emissions repair technician or facility.

B. A violation of any provision of this chapter not previously listed under subsections B, C and D of 9VAC5-91-620 shall constitute a minor violation, as they pertain to a permittee, licensee, or certified emissions repair technician or facility, unless the director determines that the violation is a major violation in accordance with subsection F of 9VAC5-91-620.

Statutory Authority

§§ 46.2-1178.1, 46.2-1179, 46.2-1180, and 46.2-1187.2 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 12, eff. April 2, 1997.

9VAC5-91-640. Applicability.

Analyzer System Certification and Specifications for Enhanced Emissions Inspection Programs

A. The provisions of this chapter apply to any system used for measuring or determining exhaust gases and evaporative emissions from motor vehicles in the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Program.

B. No owner or other person shall conduct emissions inspections required by the Virginia Vehicle Emissions Control Program pursuant to this chapter unless the analyzer system used to perform such inspections is certified by the department and such other required equipment meets the provision of this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013.

9VAC5-91-650. Design goals.

A. The analyzer system shall be designed for maximum operational simplicity with a minimum number of operational decisions required by the emissions inspector in the performance of a complete emissions analysis including exhaust tests, other emissions-related electronic or mechanical tests, or a combination of such tests.

B. The analyzer system shall be unaffected by ambient conditions in a typical emissions inspection station environment and its use shall be primarily for compliance inspection purposes. It shall be capable of providing emissions characteristics, independent of the inspection function, which can be used for vehicle diagnostic work as well.

C. The analyzer system shall be of a design which can perform both ASM and OBD testing using an analyzer certified under 9VAC5-91-680 with the addition of a dynamometer.

D. The analyzer shall be readily upgradable, without replacing the existing central processing unit, to incorporate on-board diagnostic (OBD) testing equipment and additional electronic vehicle identification equipment such as video and audio processes.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013.

9VAC5-91-660. Warranty; service contract (effective during periods without a designated program coordinator).

A. A certified emissions analyzer system shall include, at a minimum, a one-year warranty, including parts and labor, which shall begin on the day that the emissions inspection station is permitted by the department, or that the emissions analyzer system is installed and operational, whichever is later. The disk drive system in the central processing unit shall be warranted for two years.

B. Emissions analyzer system manufacturers or vendors shall offer, at a price to be stated at the time such system is offered for sale, an extended warranty for an additional five years beyond the initial one-year warranty.

C. Emissions analyzer system manufacturers or vendors shall offer, at a price to be stated at the time such system is offered for sale, a maintenance service contract for the period of time remaining from the startup date to a date six years afterward.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013.

9VAC5-91-665. Warranty; service contract with program coordinator.

A. On or after July 1, 2013, and upon designation of a program coordinator, a service contract approved by the department shall be established between each inspection station owner and the program coordinator providing, at a minimum, the following services:

1. The delivery, installation, calibration, and verification of the proper operating condition of an analyzer system that has been certified in writing by the department.

2. The instruction of all inspectors currently employed by the emissions inspection station at the time of installation, to include:

a. The proper use, maintenance, and operation of the exhaust analyzer system;

b. The step-by-step procedure for performing an emissions inspection, including OBD system test as appropriate;

c. The proper safety precautions for dynamometer use; and

d. The proper safety precautions for exhaust and calibration gas ventilation procedures.

B. The agreement shall provide for equipment maintenance and service or replacement of components of the certified analyzer system, including dynamometer control devices, optional analyzer equipment, and dynamometer preventative maintenance. Repair or replacement of analyzer system components, other than minimal maintenance items established in the service contract, must be performed by the program coordinator or an authorized agent.

C. The fee to be charged by the program coordinator for each certified analyzer system shall be determined by the department and shall not exceed $5,000 per year, not including optional devices and services and minimal maintenance items established in the service contract.

D. The program coordinator may contract with the inspection station to provide services or equipment beyond the minimum requirements of the contract specified in subsection A of this section.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013; amended, Virginia Register Volume 41, Issue 1, eff. September 25, 2024.

9VAC5-91-670. Inspection station owner requirements (effective during periods without a designated program coordinator).

A. The owner of an emissions inspection station shall enter into an agreement with a manufacturer or its authorized representative to provide the following services to the emissions inspection station at an initial fixed cost per analyzer system to be agreed upon by both parties.

1. Delivery, installation, calibration, and verification of the proper operating condition of an analyzer system which has been certified in writing by the department.

2. Training of all inspectors employed by the emissions inspection station at the time of installation in (i) the proper use, maintenance, and operation of the exhaust analyzer system, (ii) the step-by-step procedure for performing an emissions inspection and any evaporative emissions control system test or fuel filler cap pressure test required, and (iii) proper safety precautions for dynamometer use and exhaust and calibration gas ventilation procedures.

3. Annual updates, except those to be performed by department personnel, of the preexisting internal computer software of the analyzer as specified by the department including, but not limited to:

a. Changes to the emissions standards;

b. Changes to the listed vehicle codes;

c. Changes to the items in the printing system to correspond to changes in other requirements; and

d. Additions or changes to the emissions control equipment list.

B. Emissions inspection stations shall maintain their analyzer systems and dynamometer in good working condition such that they continue to meet certification requirements. Any further arrangements regarding service or maintenance are at the discretion of the emissions inspection station and the manufacturer or equipment vendor.

C. Repair or replacement of analyzer system components, other than for normal maintenance, must be performed by the analyzer system manufacturer or authorized agent.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013.

9VAC5-91-675. Inspection station owner requirements (effective during periods with a designated program coordinator).

A. On or after July 1, 2013, and upon notification of designation of a program coordinator, the owner of an emissions inspection station shall enter into an agreement with the program coordinator according to the requirements of 9VAC5-91-665.

B. The station shall provide minimal maintenance items established in the service contract with the program coordinator. The inspection station shall supply any printer paper and toner and gas analyzer probe tips if needed.

C. The station shall supply a safe and fully functional dynamometer at the time certified enhanced analyzer system equipment is provided by the program coordinator. The station shall provide preventative maintenance of the dynamometer until a service contract with a program coordinator is established. Any further arrangements regarding dynamometer service or maintenance are at the discretion of the emissions inspection station and the program coordinator.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013.

9VAC5-91-680. Certification of analyzer systems.

A. No analyzer system may be installed, sold or represented as a certified enhanced analyzer system without prior written certification by the department.

B. The analyzer system must have a certificate from the manufacturer that it meets the specifications of 40 CFR Part 85, Subpart W. This certification is necessary so that inspections performed using that analyzer system will qualify applicable vehicles for warranty repair coverage according to the provisions of § 207(b) of the federal Clean Air Act.

C. A person requesting the certification of an emissions analyzer system for use in the Virginia Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Program shall make application to the department using procedures approved by the department.

D. The analyzer system, in order to become certified for use and be used for emissions inspections, shall conform to the equipment specifications and quality control requirements of EPA Technical Guidance document EPA420-B-04-011 (see 9VAC5-91-50) unless requirements contained therein are excluded or superseded by requirements of this chapter as enumerated below.

1. The preconditioning period for all vehicles undergoing an ASM test may be up to 90 seconds. System prompts regarding queuing time are unnecessary. (Ref. EPA420-B-04-011, § 85.2(b)(11))

2. All OBD vehicles shall have engine RPM and emissions-related information read through the OBD connection.

3. Vehicles subject to ASM testing shall receive the ASM 2525 and ASM 5015 modes in that sequence, followed by any second chance testing for which the vehicle is eligible in the same sequence. Second chance tests shall only be performed on vehicles which failed the first chance test within the software specifications of all applicable standards. (Ref. EPA420-B-04-011, § 85.2(e))

4. Dynamometers shall be calibrated through a coast-down procedure every 72 hours. (Ref. EPA420-B-04-011, § 85.4 (b)(1))

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Errata, 18:23 VA.R. 3136 July 29, 2002; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013.

9VAC5-91-690. Span gases; gases for calibration purposes.

A. The gases used by emissions inspection stations in the emissions inspection shall be approved by the department and shall comply with the requirements of this section.

B. The gas concentrations, requirements, and tolerances of gases shall conform to the specifications contained in the EPA Technical Guidance document, EPA420-B-04-011, July 2004 (see 9VAC5-91-50), and each container shall bear a bar-coded label containing concentration and tolerance information as required for calibration and audit purposes.

C. Gases shall be supplied in containers which meet all the provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration as specified in 29 CFR 1910.101, Subpart H.

D. Gases shall be manufactured in accordance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency technical report, EPA-AA-TSS-83-8-B (see 9VAC5-91-50).

E. The station owner shall maintain a comprehensive, up-to-date list provided by the department, including addresses and phone numbers, of gas blenders approved by the department.

F. Each analyzer instrument shall be permanently labeled with its optical correction factor (also referred to as "C" factor, propane equivalency factor, or propane to hexane conversion factor), carried to at least two decimal places (within the gas accuracy limits), e.g., (0.52). Factor confirmation shall be made on each assembled analyzer by measuring both N-hexane and propane on assembly line quality checks.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013.

9VAC5-91-700. Calibration of exhaust gas analyzers.

The department shall use, and require for use, gases and containers meeting the following parameters, blends, and specifications in the calibration of exhaust gas analyzers:

1. The calibration gases for standardizing instruments shall conform to the provisions outlined in EPA420-B-04-011.

2. Gas analyzers shall pass a two-point gas calibration for HC, CO, CO₂ and NO, within 72 hours before each test.

3. Gas analyzers shall pass a five-point gas audit for HC, CO, CO₂, and NO at least two times within 12 months, and each time an analyzer system emissions measurement system, sensor, or other electronic components are repaired or replaced in response to an audit failure.

4. The director may reduce the frequency of calibrations in subdivision 2 of this section and audits in subdivision 3 of this section or both if evidence indicates accuracy would not be adversely affected.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013.

9VAC5-91-710. Upgrade of analyzer system.

A. Any requirement to upgrade a certified emissions analyzer system beyond the specifications and requirements described in this chapter and EPA420-B-04-011 shall apply to all such systems certified under this chapter and shall require an amendment to this chapter except for software or equipment upgrades provided under 9VAC5-91-670 or 9VAC5-91-675 as applicable.

B. Such upgrade may include, but not be limited to, enhanced on-board diagnostic (OBD) testing equipment and electronic vehicle identification systems such as video and audio processes.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia; § 182 of the Clean Air Act; 40 CFR Part 51, Subpart S.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002; Volume 29, Issue 24, eff. August 28, 2013.

9VAC5-91-790. ASM start-up standards.

ASM Exhaust Emission Standards

The following standards shall apply upon implementation of the emissions inspection program. The exhaust emissions standards for the following model years are cross-referenced by using the number in the column in Table 14.1 to locate the column that lists the appropriate standards in the look up tables in 9VAC5-91-810. Each column reference below corresponds to two columns, one for the ASM 5015 and one for the ASM 2525, in 9VAC5-91-810. The test standards are then listed in the appropriate column according to the Equivalent Test Weight.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-800. ASM final standards.

The following standards shall apply except as specifically determined according to 9VAC5-91-170. The exhaust emissions standards for the following model years are cross-referenced by using the number in the column in Table 14.2 to locate the column that lists the appropriate standards in the tables in 9VAC5-91-810. Each column reference below corresponds to two columns, one for the ASM 5015 and one for the ASM 2525, in 9VAC5-91-810. The test standards are then listed in the appropriate column according to the equivalent test weight.

Statutory Authority

§ 46.2-1180 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 13, Issue 5, eff. January 24, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 20, eff. October 1, 2002.

9VAC5-91-810. ASM 2525 and 5015 Concentration Tables.

A. ASM 2525 and ASM 5015 Hydrocarbon Table (ppm C6)

B. ASM 2525 and ASM 5015 Carbon Monoxide Table (% CO)