All Virginia vehicles must pass an annual safety inspection.
Vehicles registered in Virginia must pass an annual safety inspection. Drivers are required to display a current safety inspection sticker in the middle of their windshield. If you drive without a valid sticker, not only can you receive a ticket resulting in a fine, but this can also be listed on your driving record. The Safety Division of the Virginia State Police is in charge of inspections. As of 2010, the safety inspection fee was $16 for a vehicle, $12 for a motorcycle and $51 for tractor trailers.
Purpose
Vehicle safety inspections are mandated by the commonwealth as a way of ensuring that cars on the roads are free of defects, thus reducing accidents and injuries. Crash avoidance systems such as the brakes, suspension, steering, headlamps, reflectors and mirrors must be in good working order.
Inspection Stations
Many service stations, repair shops and car dealerships perform car inspections Mondays through Saturdays. The commonwealth does not maintain a list of the over 4,200 inspection locations for the public, but inspection stations normally have large signs advertising the services offered. It is always best to get to an inspection station early in the mornings and to avoid weekends near the end of the month, when everyone else is trying to get inspections done before it is too late.
Brake Inspection
The car's brake system is checked for worn out or missing parts, defective linings and drums, leaks and proper fluid levels. Any defective disc pads can cause the vehicle to fail inspection. The parking brake is also checked for missing parts and verification that it is properly adjusted.
Lights and Signal Devices
Headlights are inspected to make sure they aim correctly. The condition of the lamps and their output are also checked. All lights are also checked to make sure the proper bulbs are in place. The aim of the fog lights and other driving lamps are looked at. The illumination light above the rear license plate must be working. Signal devices are checked to make sure all lamps are working and the right color. The bulbs and condition of the lenses are also reviewed.
Steering, Suspension, Fuel System and Exhaust Systems
Safety inspectors also examine the steering and suspension, looking for worn-out bushings and ball joints, looseness of the gearbox, correct wheel and axle alignment, broken engine mounts, proper shock absorbers and proper play in the steering wheel.
The exhaust system is inspected for leakage of gases, working mufflers and exhaust line manifold as well any holes in the vehicle that could allow exhaust gases to enter the passenger compartment. The fuel system is checked for fuel leakage and the presence of a tank filler cap.
Other Systems
The car's tires, wheels and rims are inspected and tread depth below the legal limit will result in a rejection. Mirrors must be rigidly mounted and show a clear view of the road 200 feet to the rear. The horn must work and be audible 200 feet away as well. The windshield must be of an approved type of safety glass, not be cloudy or obstructed; all unauthorized stickers must be removed. Any tint cannot extend more than three inches from the top of the windshield. Windshield wiper blades must be in good condition, and the defroster must be operating. Doors, door handles and seat belts must be in working order.
Failed Inspections
If any defects are found in one or more of your vehicle's systems, the inspection station will place a "reject" sticker on your windshield. You will have 15 days plus the day of inspection to make the necessary repairs and have the vehicle reinspected. Inspection stations charge an additional $1 fee for this reinspection.
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