Vehicle Inspection Requirements by State (2024)
Several states don’t have any vehicle inspection requirements.
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Written bySarah Archambault
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Experienced personal finance writer
Background working with banks and insurance companies
Sarah enjoys helping people find smarter ways to spend their money. She covers auto financing, banking, credit cards, credit health, insurance, and personal loans.
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Edited byAshley Cox
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7+ years in content creation and management
5+ years in insurance and personal finance content
Ashley is a seasoned personal finance editor who’s produced a variety of digital content, including insurance, credit cards, mortgages, and consumer lending products.
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Data reviewed byKonstantin Halachev
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7+ years experience in data analysis
Ph.D. in Computational Biology
Konstantin has led data teams across multiple industries, including insurance, travel, and biology. He’s led Insurify’s engineering team for more than three years.
Updated October 8, 2024
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Table of contents
Many states require passenger vehicles to pass mandated vehicle inspections every one to two years. These checkups may include vehicle safety inspections, mandatory smog checks, and vehicle identification number (VIN) verification.
From a cracked windshield to worn-out brakes or a leaky exhaust system, many aspects of your vehicle can make it unsafe to drive or contribute to poor air quality. State inspections can prevent potentially hazardous vehicles from being on the road and help ensure your car is safe to drive.
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Vehicle inspection requirements by state
Vehicle inspection requirements vary widely by state due to factors like inspection cost, frequency, and guidelines related to vehicle age and mileage. Some states don’t require regular vehicle inspections.
Here are the vehicle inspection requirements by state.
State ▲▼ | Cost ▲▼ | Frequency ▲▼ | Requirements ▲▼ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Registration fee: $23–$105 | Yearly | VIN inspection: At the county vehicle licensing office |
| Alaska | $20 | N/A | VIN inspection: Only required in select situations, including if you need to get a VIN number for your vehicle or home-built trailer, register a reconstructed vehicle, purchased a vehicle from an impound lien, imported a car from another country, or purchased a vehicle through a U.S. Government auction |
| Arizona | $12–$25 | Every one to two years, but every year for diesel vehicles | Emissions test: For vehicles in Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan areas |
| Arkansas | N/A | N/A | Not required, unless registering an out-of-state vehicle for the first time |
| California | Smog test: $20–$70 VIN inspection: Part of $65 registration fee | Every two years or upon registration renewal | Smog test: For gas, hybrid, and alternative fuel vehicles more than 8 years old and with a model year of 1976 or newer, and diesel-powered vehicles from 1996 or newer or with a gross vehicle weight rating under 14,000 pounds VIN inspection: Upon vehicle registration and renewal |
| Colorado | Emissions test: $15–$25 VIN inspection: $25 | Every two years for most vehicles, but yearly for model years 1981 and older | Emissions test: For gas vehicles at least 7 years old with a model year of 1982 or newer), hybrid vehicles 8 years and older, and certain vehicles registered as a “collector’s item” |
| Connecticut | Emissions test: $20 VIN inspection: $10 | Every two years | Emissions test: For gas and hybrid vehicles at least 3 years old (model year of 1996 and newer) VIN inspection: For out-of-state vehicles before registration (otherwise done as part of emissions test) |
| Delaware | Part of $40 registration fee | Every two years | Safety and emissions test: For gas vehicles (model year of 1969 and newer) and diesel vehicles (model year of 1998 and newer) |
| Florida | N/A | N/A | VIN inspection and odometer verification: Required when registering an out-of-state vehicle |
| Georgia | $25 | Yearly | Emissions test: For gas vehicles, excluding brand-new vehicles up to 3 years old (model year of 1999 or newer) |
| Hawaii | Cost varies by inspector | Yearly | Safety test: For all vehicles |
| Idaho | N/A | N/A | VIN inspection: Upon registration |
| Illinois | Emissions test and VIN inspection: $20 | Every two years, with certain exceptions | VIN inspection: Required prior to emissions test Emissions test: All gas vehicles at least 4 years old (model year of 1996 or newer) in Chicago and Metro-East St. Louis |
| Indiana | Emissions test: Free, but inspectors may charge convenience fees VIN inspection: Free | Every two years | Emissions test: For all vehicles in Lake and Porter counties (model year of 1975 and newer) VIN inspection: For vehicles with out-of-state titles |
| Iowa | N/A | N/A | VIN inspection: Most common for homebuilt vehicles, homemade trailers weighing more than 2,000 lbs., older vehicles from another state, and salvage vehicles |
| Kansas | $20 | N/A | VIN inspection: For vehicles with an out-of-state title, vehicles from a foreign country, and a vehicle assembled, reconstructed, reconstituted, or restored from one or more vehicles |
| Kentucky | $5–$15 | N/A | VIN inspection: For out-of-state vehicles |
| Louisiana | $18 | Yearly | Safety test: For all vehicles Emissions test: For all gas vehicles at least 2 years old (model year 1980 or newer) in the five Baton Rouge parishes |
| Maine | $12.50–$18.50 | Yearly | Safety test: All vehicles Emissions test: For vehicles registered in Cumberland County |
| Maryland | Safety test: Cost varies by inspector Emissions test: $10–$14 | Safety test: Prior to vehicle sale or transfer Emissions test: Every 2 years or 72 months after titling for new vehicles | Safety test: For most vehicles prior to transfer of ownership Emissions test: For all gas and hybrid vehicles at least 3 years old (1996 or newer) in 14 counties |
| Massachusetts | $35 | Yearly | Safety test: For all vehicles Emissions test: For vehicles less than 15 years old |
| Michigan | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Minnesota | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Mississippi | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Missouri | Safety test: $12 Emissions test: $24 VIN inspection: Part of $14.50 title fee | Every two years | Safety test: For all vehicles at least 11 years old or with 150,000 miles Emissions test: For most vehicles with over 40,000 miles in St. Louis, St. Charles, or Jefferson counties and St. Louis City |
| Montana | Part of $28–$217 registration fee | N/A | VIN inspection: For vehicles undergoing certain types of registrations, vehicles with out-of-state titles, and more |
| Nebraska | $10 | N/A | VIN inspection and odometer verification: For all out-of-state vehicles and salvaged vehicles |
| Nevada | Emissions testing: $64–$123 (varies by county) VIN inspection: Part of $33 registration fee | Yearly | Emissions test: For all gas- or diesel-powered vehicles (model year 1968 or newer) in Las Vegas and Reno metros at least 3 years old and hybrid vehicles at least 5 years old |
| New Hampshire | $20–$50 (varies by inspector) | Yearly | Safety test: For all vehicles Emissions test: For all vehicles less than 20 years old |
| New Jersey | Free at state sites, but a fee varies by inspector at private state inspection stations | Every two years for most vehicles; new vehicles receive a five-year inspection | Emissions test: For all gas vehicles (model 1996 or newer) and diesel vehicles (model 1996 or newer) that weigh less than 8,500 pounds |
| New Mexico | Emissions test: $15–$25 plus tax (varies by inspector) VIN inspection: Part of $27–$124 registration fee | Every two years | Emissions test: All gas vehicles at least 4 years old (model year 1986 or newer) in Bernalillo County VIN inspection: For all out-of-state vehicles |
| New York | Safety test: $10 Emissions test: $11 to $27 | Yearly or when ownership is transferred | Safety test: For all vehicles Emissions test: For all vehicles between 2 and 25 years old that use gas or diesel (1997 or newer) Both inspections must be done at the same time |
| North Carolina | Safety test: $13.60, plus $10 for tinted windows when applicable Emissions test: $30 | Yearly | Safety test: For all vehicles less than 35 years old Emissions test: For all gas-powered vehicles (3 to 19 years old or with more than 70,000 miles) in 19 counties |
| North Dakota | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Ohio | Emission: Free VIN: Varies | Every two years | Emissions test: For all vehicles 4–25 years old in seven counties and the Cleveland/Akron metro VIN inspection: For all out-of-state vehicles |
| Oklahoma | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Oregon | $20–$25 | Every two years | Emissions test: For all vehicles in Medford and Portland metropolitan areas VIN inspection: For all out-of-state vehicles |
| Pennsylvania | Varies by inspector | Yearly | Safety test: For all vehicles Emissions test: For all gas vehicles at least 1 year old with more than 5,000 miles (model 1975 or newer) in certain regions, including South Central, Northern, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia |
| Rhode Island | Safety and emissions test: $55 VIN inspection: Varies by police department | Every two years | Safety test: For all vehicles at least 2 years old or with more than 24,000 miles Emissions test: For all vehicles at least 2 years old (model 1996 and newer for gas vehicles and 1997 for diesel vehicles) VIN inspection: For all out-of-state vehicles (model year 2001 and newer) |
| South Carolina | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| South Dakota | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Tennessee | N/A | N/A | No statewide requirement, but some counties require regular emissions testing |
| Texas | $18.50–$25.50 | Yearly | Safety test: For all vehicles Emissions test: For all gas vehicles 2–24 years old in 17 countries |
| Utah | Emissions test: $15–$45 (depends on inspector) VIN inspection: Included in titling fee | Every two years | Emissions test: For all gas vehicles at least 6 years old (model year 1968 or newer) in Cache, Davis, Salt Lake, Utah, and Weber counties; diesel vehicles (model year 1998 or newer) in Utah county only VIN inspection: For all out-of-state vehicles |
| Vermont | Depends on the inspector | Yearly | Safety test: For all vehicles Emissions test: For all gas vehicles 16 years old or newer |
| Virginia | Safety test: $20 Emissions test: $30 | Safety test: Yearly Emissions test: Every two years | Safety test: For all vehicles Emissions test: For all gas vehicles less than 25 years old and all diesel vehicles (model years 1997 or newer) in Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, Stafford, and five northern Virginia cities |
| Washington | N/A | N/A | VIN inspection: For salvage vehicles |
| Washington, D.C. | N/A | Every two years | All vehicles need to pass federally mandated emissions inspections every two years |
| West Virginia | $14.66 | Every two years | Safety test: For all vehicles |
| Wisconsin | Emission test: Free | Every two years | Emissions test: For all gas vehicles 3 years or older (model year 1996 or newer) and all diesel vehicles (model year 2007 or newer) in Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Washington, and Waukesha counties |
| Wyoming | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Does state law mandate vehicle inspections?
U.S. states set their own vehicle inspection laws for regular passenger vehicles, so specific requirements, inspection fees, and frequency can vary widely. Several U.S. states, such as Alaska, don’t require any vehicle inspections.[1] Other states, like Rhode Island, require safety and vehicle emissions inspections, while some may only require VIN inspections.[2]
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General vehicle inspection requirements
Vehicle inspection guidelines can vary by the type of inspection, the state where you registered your car, and the region where you live. It’s a good idea to check your state’s department (or bureau) of motor vehicles website if you need to know more about which laws apply to your vehicle.
Learn more about common vehicle inspection requirements for passenger cars below.
Age and mileage of the vehicle
Your vehicle’s age, model year, and mileage may determine if you need to complete any vehicle inspections. For example, Missouri vehicles at least 11 years old or with 150,000 miles or more must undergo a safety inspection.[3] In North Carolina, all gas vehicles between 3 and 20 years old or with more than 70,000 miles must undergo an emissions inspection in certain counties.[4]
Inspection frequency
Many states require annual inspection, such as New York and Pennsylvania.[5][6] Other states, like Oregon and New Mexico, only require inspections every two years.[7][8] And in some cases, the process of vehicle registration or other vehicle inspections includes VIN checks.
Key inspection areas
During a vehicle inspection, the inspector may check the following systems on your vehicle, depending on the type of inspection and your state’s regulations.
Engine and emission control systems: A technician will check your engine and related emissions control systems to ensure everything is functioning properly and safely.
Steering and suspension systems: An inspector will check your steering system to make sure that nothing is loose or worn. They should also check your shock absorbers for leaks or damage.
Braking systems: They’ll check your brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid, along with your emergency brake or parking brake, to make sure everything is functioning properly.
Tires and wheels: A technician will check your tire tread level and also look for other potential hazards like dry rot, bubbles, or loose bolts. They may also check the condition of your spare tire.
Electrical systems and lighting: Safety inspections check your exterior lights, including headlights, brake lights, taillights, turn signals, hazard lights, and license plate lights, along with important electrical systems and wires.
Windshields and windows: A technician will assess your windshield for cracks, chips, and loose seals and your windows for potential obstructions like tints. They may also check your windshield wipers.
Body, chassis, and frame: Your inspector may inspect the vehicle’s frame for cracks, rusts, and other damage.
Fluids and lubricants: A technician may check the levels of various fluids, including your oil, transmission fluid, coolant, or power-steering fluid.
Vehicle identification number (VIN) and odometer verification: The inspector will check your vehicle’s unique VIN to verify ownership, along with the odometer to confirm mileage.
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What Is a VIN?
What to do if you fail an inspection
If your vehicle fails an annual safety inspection or smog check, you may have a time frame, such as 30 days, to get the necessary repairs or service before taking a second test. If it’s a simple fix, such as a headlight bulb that needs replacing, you’ll likely pass your retest.
Inspection failure due to more serious issues might make you eligible for an exception waiver, depending on your state’s laws.
Vehicle inspection FAQs
Find more information about vehicle inspection requirements below.
What does a vehicle need to pass inspection in Texas?
In Texas, all vehicles must get an annual vehicle safety inspection. Gas vehicles 2–24 years old must also get an emissions test in 17 Texas counties.[9]
What fails a car inspection in New York?
Many factors can cause your car to fail a car inspection in New York, including unsafe brakes, steering issues, low tire tread, and issues with emissions control devices. You can also fail if the vehicle’s gas cap is missing or doesn’t fit well. An inspection report is provided as part of the inspection process.
What does a car need to pass inspection in California?
You must pass all components of a California smog check to meet California emissions standards. The test typically includes a visual and functional inspection of the vehicle’s emissions control components and systems. You must also pass an OBD functional inspection and tailpipe emissions inspection.
What’s required for a North Carolina vehicle inspection?
North Carolina requires yearly safety inspections for vehicles less than 35 years old. All gas vehicles between 3 and 20 years old with more than 70,000 miles must have annual emissions tests in 19 counties.
What do you need to get your car inspected in Pennsylvania?
To get your car inspected in Pennsylvania, you’ll need to bring certain information and documents, including your vehicle registration card, proof of financial responsibility, proof of insurance, and a copy of your vehicle’s VIN authorized by an inspection mechanic, notary public, or issuing agent.
Are vehicle inspection requirements the same in every state or region?
No. Vehicle inspection requirements vary widely by state, and regulations may even vary by county or city in some states.
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Sources
- Alaska Department of Motor Vehicles. "Vehicle Inspection."
- Rhode Island Emissions and Safety Testing. "Frequently Asked Questions."
- Missouri Department of Revenue. "Motor Vehicle - Additional Help Resource."
- North Carolina Department of Transportation. "Emissions Inspections."
- New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. "About New York State Inspections."
- Pennsylvania Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance. "Frequently Asked Questions: Emissions and Safety Inspection Program Changes."
- Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs. "Vehicle Inspection."
- New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division. "Emission Testing."
- Texas Department of Public Safety. "Vehicle Inspection."
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Sarah Archambault
Sarah Archambault enjoys helping people figure out how to manage their finances and credit. She covers auto financing, banking, credit cards, credit health, insurance, and personal loans. Her work has been featured on Credit Karma, Experian, LendingClub, Sound Dollar and USA Today Blueprint. She also writes for national insurers, banks and financial institutions like Aetna, MassMutual, Stripe, and UnitedHealthcare.
7+ years in content creation and management
5+ years in insurance and personal finance content
Ashley is a seasoned personal finance editor who’s produced a variety of digital content, including insurance, credit cards, mortgages, and consumer lending products.
Featured in
7+ years experience in data analysis
Ph.D. in Computational Biology
Konstantin has led data teams across multiple industries, including insurance, travel, and biology. He’s led Insurify’s engineering team for more than three years.
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