The Safety Inspection Program: a yearly checkup for your vehicle

Most new car dealerships and many car repair shops are licensed to inspect vehicles. Many of these will display a sign outside their business or advertise in the local phone directory. For help locating an inspection station, contact your local Safety Division Area Office.

The cost for most vehicles (including cars, trucks, vans, trailers, and motor homes) is $20. Motorcycle inspections are $12 and commercial vehicles are $51.

Your safety inspection covers the following 24 steps:
1. Remove Old Inspection Sticker
2. Drive Vehicle Into Inspection Lane
3. Inspect Brakes
4. Inspect Parking Brake
5. Inspect Headlights
6. Inspect Other Lights
7. Inspect Signal Device
8. Inspect Steering & Suspension
9. Inspect Tires, Wheels & Rims
10. Inspect Mirrors
11. Inspect Horn
12. Inspect Windshield And Other Glass
13. Inspect Windshield Wiper/Defroster
14. Inspect Exhaust System
15. Inspect Rear License Plate
16. Inspect Hood And Area Under The Hood
17. Inspect Air Pollution Control System
18. Inspect Driver’s Seat
19. Inspect Seat Belts
20. Inspect Air Bag And Airbag Readiness Light
21. Inspect Doors At The Right & Left Side Of The Driver’s Seat
22. Inspect Fuel System
23. Inspect Floor Pan
24. Issue Sticker

As soon as you register a vehicle with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, unless exempt from inspection pursuant to §46.2-1158.0, it must be inspected. We recommend that you plan to get your vehicle inspected before registering your vehicle.

The sticker expires on the last day of the month indicated on the sticker, regardless of whether it is a weekday or weekend. No documents will be mailed to remind you that the inspection is due.

A failed inspection and rejection sticker do not place travel restrictions on your vehicle, but you must address the issues found in your inspection and get your vehicle reinspected within 15 days.