Almaty introduces mandatory vehicle emissions screening from Sept. 1

Almaty will make emissions screening a mandatory part of scheduled vehicle inspections from Sept. 1, 2026. The new check will apply to gasoline, gas and diesel vehicles, but it will remain separate from the standard inspection of a car’s general condition.

Gasoline and gas vehicles will undergo exhaust-toxicity tests. Diesel vehicles will be checked for smoke opacity under the ST RK 1433-2023 standard, said LEZ project coordinator Dulat Maratov.

Drivers do not need to arrange an early screening. The rule will apply when their next scheduled inspection falls after Sept. 1. Inspections completed before that date will remain valid until their existing certificates expire.

Standard inspections can continue at existing inspection centers, while emissions screening will be available only at accredited stations with certified equipment linked to a unified system. Drivers will be able to complete both procedures at those stations, and a list of facilities will be published on the Almaty Parking website.

Almaty’s Low Emission Zone is currently operating in a technical pilot mode, with no restrictions or fines. Deputy Akim Almaskhan Smatlayev said only vehicles meeting environmental standards, reportedly at least Euro 5, will eventually be allowed in such zones. Administrative penalties are planned for violations, while paid entry to Almaty will not be introduced in 2026.

Mobile environmental laboratories have checked more than 2,500 vehicles, according to Arshat Bakhtygereyev of the city’s ecology department. More than 714 vehicles recorded excessive emissions.

“

The mandatory technical inspection is aimed at checking the overall condition of the vehicle. The environmental screening is designed exclusively to measure emission levels in accordance with the ST RK 1433-2023 standard.