MVA Emissions Centers To Be Drive-Thru Coronavirus Testing Sites

MARYLAND — Across Maryland, Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP) centers are closed. But behind the scenes, activity is underway to convert these facilities into drive-thru testing sites for the new coronavirus.

Five vehicle emissions inspection centers will be ready to open as drive-thru testing centers "as soon as the necessary testing kits and protective equipment become available," Gov. Larry Hogan said March 23.

County Executive Barry Glassman said Friday on WBAL Radio that one of the testing centers will be in Harford County, at an emissions testing facility in Forest Hill on Robin Circle.

Harford County officials referred Patch to the University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health for more information on testing at the VEIP site. Hospital officials, however, said the Maryland Department of Health is the lead agency.

"You would still need a doctor to order the test" once the center is operational, Harford County spokeswoman Cindy Mumby told Patch.

When that will happen is still to be determined.

"The Maryland Department of Health is in the planning stages of using VEIP stations as drive-thru testing sites," Maryland Department of Health spokesman Charlie Gischlar said. "When finalized, MDH will announce the testing plan and site locations."

At the emissions center off Edgewood Street near Halethorpe, a sign says: "Looking for a COVID-19 test site? This location has not yet been mobilized."

Hogan first announced his plan to convert the Motor Vehicle Administration's emissions testing facilities into coronavirus testing sites March 17.