Are all classic cars in CT exempt from emissions testing?

Classic cars in Connecticut become exempt from emissions testing if they are of the model year 2000 or older as of 2025.

In Connecticut, cars that are 20 years or older can be registered as classic vehicles. Under Connecticut General Statutes Section 14-1(3), these are called “antique, rare, or special interest” vehicles if they are preserved due to historical interest and kept in their original, unmodified condition.

These qualifying vehicles are also eligible for a property tax break. According to Connecticut General Statutes Section 12-71(b), their assessed value is capped at $500, which can significantly lower annual property taxes.

Vehicles do become exempt from emissions testing when they are 25 model years old. Until that point, even if a car is registered as a classic, it must still pass emissions testing.

So while tax benefits start at 20 years, emissions exemptions apply only at 25.