Vehicle Inspection Requirements by State (2025)
Several states don’t have any vehicle inspection requirements.
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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.
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.
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
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.45 Other states, like Oregon and New Mexico, only require inspections every two years.67 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.
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.8
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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