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No.

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.

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Reginald David is the Community Engagement Reporter for CT Mirror. He builds relationships across Connecticut to elevate community voices and deepen public dialogue around local issues. Previously, he was a producer at KCUR 89.3, Kansas City’s NPR station, where he created community-centered programming, led live event coverage for major events like the NFL Draft, the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl Parade, and Royals Opening Day, and launched KC Soundcheck, a music series spotlighting local and national artists. Reginald has also hosted special segments, including an in-depth interview with civil rights leader Alvin Brooks and live community coverage on issues like racial segregation and neighborhood development. He began his public media career as an ‘Integrity in News’ intern at WNPR in Hartford.