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how often do you have to get your car inspected in maryland

by Dr. Molly Parisian Published 3 years ago Updated 3 years ago

You don't need to get an inspection for your car that often if you live in Maryland. Typically, you'll only need one safety inspection when you first buy the car and an emissions inspection test once every two years. Many states do require drivers to have their cars inspected for safety at least once a year.

Full Answer

Do I need to have my car inspected in Maryland?

In Maryland, unlike in many other states, you don’t need to have your vehicle inspected on a regular basis. According to the Maryland law, you only need to have your car inspected in two situations: (1) Your vehicle is registered in another state and you have just moved to Maryland.

How long does a Maryland vehicle inspection take?

Most inspections take anywhere between 1 to 2 hours once the mechanic begins to work on the vehicle. Depending on your vehicle, different aspects of it are checked. In general, brakes, steering, lights, exhaust, safety belts, and other crucial components are checked during the Maryland vehicle inspection.

How often do I need to have my vehicle inspected?

Pennsylvania — Inspections are required every year and when registering vehicles from out of state. States R-W Rhode Island — Inspections are required every two years.

How does the inspection work in the state of Maryland?

The Inspector will enter the inspection information into the Maryland Safety Inspection System, which will electronically transfer the information to the MVA if the vehicle meets all Maryland safety standards.

Do you have to get your car inspected every year in MD?

Maryland requires every car registered in the State to pass an emissions test to help cut down on car pollution. At some point during your two-year registration period, you'll receive a notice from the MVA requiring you to have your vehicle emissions inspected.

How long is an inspection good for in the state of Maryland?

90 daysThe inspection certificate is only valid for 90 days. If you do not have an inspection certification dated 90 days prior to registration, another inspection will be required.

What year cars are exempt from inspection in MD?

In Maryland, registered historic vehicles less than 40 years old are presently exempt from periodic emissions inspections. Maryland's House Bill 1258 seeks to amend that provision and reinstate emissions testing on such vehicles.

How much does a MD state inspection cost?

$60 to $110On average, the Maryland state inspection costs from $60 to $110. At some car wash stations, it costs around $80. Furthermore, each location has its dues and inspection fees depending upon the services they are offering.

How often is MD state inspection?

You don't need to get an inspection for your car that often if you live in Maryland. Typically, you'll only need one safety inspection when you first buy the car and an emissions inspection test once every two years. Many states do require drivers to have their cars inspected for safety at least once a year.

What happens if I don't get my car inspected in MD?

If your car fails the inspection, you will be given a reason why and a recommendation from your mechanic. You have an option to have the necessary repairs performed at the inspection station or you could take your car to your preferred auto service shop.

Will a cracked windshield pass inspection in MD?

A: Marcus, The allowable size for a crack in the windshield is 1/2 inch or less.

What vehicles are exempt from inspection in MD?

The following are VEIP Exempt Vehicles:1995 or older under 8500 Gross Vehicle Weight.Vehicles weighing more than 26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.Vehicles powered solely by diesel or electric.Motorcycle.Vehicles registered as a farm truck, farm truck tractor or farm area vehicle.Historic or Antique vehicles.More items...

How much do tags cost in MD?

Vehicle Registration Fees Maryland registration fees are based on the type of vehicle and weight. Standard Maryland vehicle registration fees include: Passenger/multi-use vehicles 3,700 lbs. or less: $135. Passenger/multi-use vehicles over 3,700 lbs.: $187.

What is included in a Maryland car inspection?

What items are included in a Maryland State Inspection checklist?Steering. Inspect steering wheel, column, linkages, and power steering, and conduct a road test.Brakes. Inspect all system parts and test stopping distance.Suspension. ... Wheels. ... Tires. ... Fuel System. ... Exhaust. ... Electrical.More items...

How do you get your car inspected in MD?

To obtain an inspection certification, you must have your vehicle inspected at a licensed vehicle safety inspection station in Maryland. There are approximately 1,600 of these facilities throughout the state.

How long is a Maryland safety inspection valid?

Please be advised the MDOT MVA in consultation with the Maryland State Police Automotive Safety Enforcement Division will accept a Maryland Safety Inspection (MSI) that is expired beyond the 90-day period but not to exceed 120 days. This will be valid for MSIs processed on or after March 5, 2020. These transactions will need to be walked into MDOT MVA Branch Office for processing. Inspections expired for 121 days or more will need to go through the reinspection process. The above policy is valid through June 30, 2021.

What happens if your car fails inspection in Maryland?

If your vehicle fails to meet even one safety standard, the Maryland Inspection Certificate cannot be issued. You must have the problem (s) identified on the station’s inspection report fixed and then have the vehicle re-inspected by the same registered inspection mechanic at the same station.

What happens if my vehicle fails the safety inspection?

If your vehicle fails to meet even one safety standard, the Maryland Inspection Certificate cannot be issued. You must have the problem (s) identified on the station’s inspection report fixed and then have the vehicle re-inspected by the same registered inspection mechanic at the same station. You have the option of fixing the problem yourself, having the inspection station fix the problem, or taking the vehicle to another facility for repairs.

How long does a safety inspection take?

The safety inspection should take about 1-½ hours for most vehicles once the registered inspection mechanic begins work. Certain vehicles (e.g., trailers) may take less time so it is best to check with the station.

Do you get an inspection certificate if you are inspected at an inspection station?

However, if your vehicle is inspected at an inspection station that offers an electronic inspection service (e-inspection), you will not receive an inspection certificate. Your inspection certificate will be electronically sent to the MVA.

Do you need a safety inspection in Maryland?

Most used vehicles are required by Maryland Law to undergo a safety inspection prior to its sale or transfer. Generally, the seller or transferor of the vehicle is required to obtain the inspection certificate. However, for class E trucks (exceeding ¾ ton manufacturer’s rated capacity), class F truck tractors, and class G freight trailers, ...

Do you need a safety inspection certificate for a used car in Maryland?

Most used vehicles are required by Maryland Law to undergo a safety inspection prior to its sale or transfer. Generally, the seller or transferor of the vehicle is required to obtain the inspection certificate. However, for class E trucks (exceeding ¾ ton manufacturer’s rated capacity), class F truck tractors, and class G freight trailers, semi-trailers and dump service semi-trailers, either the seller/transfer or or the purchaser/transferee may obtain the inspection certificate. The purchase/transferee than submits the inspection certificate to the MVA in order to register the vehicle. However, if your vehicle is inspected at an inspection station that offers an electronic inspection service (e-inspection), you will not receive an inspection certificate. Your inspection certificate will be electronically sent to the MVA.

How many inspection stations are there in Maryland?

There are approximately 1,600 of these facilities throughout the state. Stations are authorized to inspect certain types of vehicles, some inspect multiple types, see below for the station class you need.

Who is responsible for transporting a vehicle to the inspection station?

It is the vehicle owner ’s responsibility to legally transport the vehicle to the inspection station. The Inspector will enter the inspection information into the Maryland Safety Inspection System, which will electronically transfer the information to the MVA if the vehicle meets all Maryland safety standards.

What happens if you don't register your car?

If you are not able to register the vehicle because it has not yet received a safety inspection, you may qualify for a 30-day temporary registration that will enable you to legally drive the vehicle to the inspection station. It is the vehicle owner’s responsibility to legally transport the vehicle to the inspection station.

What happens if your car fails to meet safety standards?

If your vehicle fails to meet safety standards, the Maryland inspection certification cannot be issued. You must have the problem (s) identified on the inspection report repaired and then have the vehicle re-inspected by the same registered inspection mechanic at the same station.

Can you print a vehicle inspection report?

The Inspection Report will not automatically be emailed to the customer for passed inspections, but will be available for print if needed. All the required information for registration is on the inspection receipt. The Inspection Report will continue to be emailed to the customer for failed inspections which will indicate which vehicle components failed inspection.

Do you need a vehicle inspection in Maryland?

Vehicle Safety Inspection. Used vehicles to be registered in Maryland are required by Maryland law to undergo a vehicle safety inspection prior to sale or transfer.

Does Maryland regulate labor hours?

Maryland regulations regulate the number of labor hours billed by the station for an inspection, but they do not regulate the station’s labor rate. The fee charged for a safety inspection must be prominently displayed in each station. The fee for the re-inspection of a vehicle varies with the inspection station’s labor rate and ...

How long does a Maryland safety inspection last?

You will need a Maryland Safety Inspection certificate dated no more than 90 days prior to the registration date. This means even if the car you bought has already been inspected this year, you will still need to go through the inspection process again, because the certificate is only valid for 90 days. Note: if you have purchased your new car ...

How long do you have to register a car in Maryland?

In this case, you have 60 days to register your vehicle in Maryland, and to do that your car must pass Maryland state inspection. (2) You are a resident of Maryland and you have become an owner of a used vehicle (you purchased, inherited it or it was a gift). You will need a Maryland Safety Inspection certificate dated no more than 90 days prior ...

What happens if my car fails the MVA inspection?

If your car fails the inspection, you will be given a reason why and a recommendation from your mechanic. You have an option to have the necessary repairs performed at the inspection station or you could take your car to your preferred auto service shop.

What is a safety inspection?

Generally, the safety inspection covers breaks, steering, lights, exhaust, safety belts and other crucial components of the vehicle. You can refer to the MVA website for the complete list.

Do you need to have your car inspected in Maryland?

In Maryland, unlike in many other states, you don’t need to have your vehicle inspected on a regular basis. According to the Maryland law, you only need to have your car inspected in two situations: (1) Your vehicle is registered in another state and you have just moved to Maryland.

Does Maryland have tinted windows?

Among other things, State of Maryland has certain regulations when it comes to tinted windows. If your car has tinted windows, here’s what you need to know: - Prior to 2012 you had to have Maryland State Police Officer from ASED division measure and sign off on your window tint.

Do you need an inspection certificate if you bought a car out of state?

Note: if you have purchased your new car from an out-of-state dealership, you don’t need to obtain the inspection certificate. Only used vehicles are required to be inspected.

What are the vehicle inspection requirements in Maryland?

When you register a vehicle in one of the 13 counties and Baltimore city, you’re required to get an emissions inspection every two years for vehicles year 1996 or newer. Hybrid vehicles over three years old must also get a smog check. This ensures that all required vehicles meet the state’s emission standards and helps maintain good air quality.

Where to get a car inspection in Maryland

You’ll need to visit a smog check station that is authorized by the Maryland MVA to complete your vehicle inspection. The Maryland state website maintains a list of inspection stations you can visit.

How often do you need a car inspection?

If your vehicle was manufactured after 1996 and is registered in one of the 13 counties and Baltimore city, you’re required to get an emissions inspection every two years.

Finding affordable car insurance

Once you pass your emissions inspection, be sure to also review your current car insurance policy as you are likely to find a better rate for the same coverage. The car insurance broker app Jerry helps you compare quotes from 50+ top providers so you know you’re getting the best coverage for the most affordable price!

FAQs

You are required to get a safety inspection before any sale or transfer of vehicle ownership. Emissions inspections follow the same rules.

How Long Is Maryland Car Inspection Good for?

In the state of Maryland, a vehicle inspection is good to go for car registration. It is valid for a reasonable time frame of 90 days for registration. If you don’t own an inspection certificate dated 90 days before the registration process, you will require another inspection for registration.

How Much Does a Maryland Vehicle Inspection Cost?

The total cost of vehicle inspection varies differently from shop to shop. On average, the Maryland state inspection costs from $60 to $110. At some car wash stations, it costs around $80.

Where Do You Go in Maryland to Take Your Car for Inspection?

If you are living near Maryland and you are searching the Maryland vehicle inspection near me, you can search the nearest Maryland inspection station near you by using the E-inspection & search locator while using the search filters for your vehicle type and zip code of your city.

How Do I Get a Copy of My Vehicle Inspection Report?

If you get your vehicle inspection done, ensure to get a copy of the vehicle inspection report from the station. It is required for the registration process. If you misplace the Maryland vehicle inspection report before registration, you can get a copy of the information from the Vehicle Infrastructure Council unit in Maryland.

Do You Have to Get Your Car Inspected in Maryland?

You need a Maryland car inspection if you have just moved to Maryland and want to register your vehicle here. If you have moved from another state, you have a time frame of 60 days to register your car and you must pass the inspect ion before registering your vehicle .

How often do you need to have a vehicle inspection in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania — Inspections are required every year and when registering vehicles from out of state.

How often do you need a car inspection in Louisiana?

Louisiana — Inspections are required every 1-2 years. Maine — Inspections are required every year. Maryland — Inspections are required when you sell or transfer ownership of the vehicle and when registering a vehicle from out of state. Massachusetts — Inspections are required every year. Michigan — Inspections are not required.

Why is it important to have your car inspected?

Having your car inspected is an important part of vehicle maintenance. Inspections help you discover problems before they become a danger out on the road, and they help you keep things up to date such as your oil changes, tire rotations, and filter changes.

When are inspections required in Alabama?

Alabama — Inspections are required when you sell or transfer ownership of the vehicle.

Do you have to have your car inspected?

As it turns out, many states require you to have your car inspected periodically. Here is a state-by-state guide for when you legally need to have your car inspected.

Do you need inspections to renew your license in Delaware?

Delaware — Inspections are required when you renew your registration.

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