How Long Does a Car Inspection Take?

Most car inspections take anywhere from half an hour to several hours or more. Below are the basic estimated times for each type of car inspection: 

Emissions, car insurance, VIN, and pre-sale inspections typically take an hour or less. Pre-purchase and safety inspections can take longer, depending on what issues the technician runs into while performing the inspection. Times can also be delayed if the day calls for multiple inspections. Scheduling an inspection ahead of time can expedite the process. 

Car inspections go by several names, depending on the reason for the inspection. Below are some of the most common car inspections you’ll come across. 

Courtesy/Safety inspection

In addition to emissions testing, several states require safety inspections. Automotive mechanic shops also perform courtesy inspections that address some of the same components. For instance, both inspections ensure your headlights, taillights, and horns work correctly. Many mechanics may use a courtesy inspection during routine maintenance to update owners about potential issues requiring attention. 

Point or pre-sale inspection 

Dealerships often advertise a 125-point inspection or the like that describes their pre-sale process of reviewing several key touchpoints on a vehicle. Before placing a car on the lot for sale, dealerships must ensure their inventory meets set standards, including emissions and safety. For example, tire tread depth on vehicles legally offered for sale must be over 2/32 of an inch. 

VIN inspection 

When you transfer a vehicle’s title from one state to another, you typically have to complete a VIN inspection. This inspection confirms that your vehicle’s components contain the same VIN stamp. At its most basic level, a VIN inspection deters fraud. 

Pre-purchase inspection

Completing a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) before purchasing a used car, especially one bought via a private party sale, can be a prudent move for any potential buyer. Most dealerships and independent repair shops offer PPIs so buyers know what they’re getting into before sealing the deal. The depth of PPIs varies, but some of a car’s most basic yet critical systems undergo review. 

Emissions inspection 

All vehicles must meet emission-specific standards per the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Many states require emissions inspections on a yearly or biannual basis to ensure the cars currently on the road adhere to those standards. Unless you’ve modified your vehicle’s exhaust or emissions system, your car should pass an emissions inspection with flying colors. 

Car insurance inspection 

Auto insurance carriers may require drivers to pass an inspection before receiving coverage, especially where full coverage (comprehensive and collision) is concerned. Alternatively, car insurance companies may only perform an inspection upon making a claim. Generally speaking, most brand-new vehicles don’t require a car insurance inspection. In addition, most states require car insurance coverage to complete registration. 

Pre-insurance inspections provide several benefits. Besides establishing the vehicle’s condition in the eyes of the insurance company, the inspection also protects the driver from coverage issues down the road. By requiring pre-insurance inspections, auto insurance carriers can also lower the number of motor vehicle accidents and thus reduce insurance premiums. 

A certified technician or agency performs most car inspections. You can learn more about which types of car inspections are required in your area and who can perform those inspections by visiting your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website.  

1. Determine what type of inspection you need and who completes those inspections. For example, if you receive a notice in the mail that your car’s due for an emissions test, research your local emissions testing center. 
2. Post-pandemic handling of inspections may dictate that you set up or schedule an appointment. Most agencies allow you to schedule the inspection online or over the phone.  
3. Gathering any necessary documents before your inspection shouldn’t require more than a few minutes. Required documents should be listed on the same website where you set up your appointment. Remember to ensure your anticipated payment method complies with accepted payment methods. 
4. The time necessary for completing the required inspection varies, but you can also verify wait times with staff when you arrive. Scheduling an inspection early in the day, week, or month can help offset wait times.

It’s often a good idea to schedule an inspection well before strict deadlines or road trips. The inspection may turn up something that requires immediate attention, and waiting until the last minute could put your plans in jeopardy.  

The shelf life of a car inspection depends on the type, among many other factors. Emissions and safety inspections are often good for at least a year, depending on state laws. Car insurance inspections may follow the same schedule if the carrier requires annual inspections before you can renew your coverage. If you want to get out of a car loan, you may do it before your next safety, insurance, or emissions inspection interval arrives to avoid paying additional ownership costs for that particular vehicle. 

Inspection requirements vary from state to state. Certain vehicles of a particular age may also qualify for exemption from inspection based on individual state requirements. Below are the basic vehicle inspection requirements for each of the 50 states:

If your state doesn’t require a car inspection, it’s still a good idea to schedule your vehicle for a routine inspection. Proactive measures can help you reduce any potential repair bills and help you avoid getting stranded should catastrophic failure ensue. Prudent drivers may also look into what roadside assistance covers to offset the risks of breaking down due to a failed component.