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Newcomers-Welcome to Virginia!

Moving comes with its fair share of adjustments, and for those of you making Virginia your new home, one of the items on your "to-figure-out" list is what you need to do in relation to the VA state inspection. Virginia State Inspections encompass both safety and, in some cities and counties, emissions checks.

In this guide, we'll break down the basics to help new residents navigate this essential aspect of Virginia living.

Note that Virginia can make changes to the state inspection process. Government resources are linked throughout the guide, and we encourage you to cross-check them to ensure you have the latest information.

Virginia State Inspection Basics

Here's a quick list of what to know at a glance:

• Safety Inspection: Required in all counties for non-exempt vehicles
  • How often: Yearly, by the last day of the month
• Emissions Inspection: Required in some cities and counties for non-exempt vehicles
  • How Often: Every two years

When people talk about the state inspection, it's important to recognize what that entails will differ depending on where the vehicle is registered. There are two primary types of inspections: safety and emissions. While areas like Virginia Beach only require safety inspections, some areas mandate both safety and emissions checks.

My Vehicle Passed Its Safety Inspection in Another State Before I Moved; Do I Need a VA Inspection?

Yes for safety inspections. Even if your vehicle passed an out-of-state safety inspection, you'll need to pass the Virginia safety inspection when you move here.

It depends for emissions inspections. If you're moving to a city or county that requires an emissions inspection and you passed the emissions inspection in your current state, then the Department of Motor Vehicles has this to say:

"If your vehicle is being registered for the first time in Virginia and has a current valid emissions certificate (performed in the last 12 months), it may be titled and registered without a Virginia emissions inspection."

I Purchased a New Vehicle in Another State; Do I Need to Pass the VA State Inspection?

Yes for safety inspections. Congratulations on your new vehicle! If it was purchased outside of Virginia, it will need to be re-inspected in Virginia. It doesn't matter that the vehicle is new or even if that new vehicle had to pass a safety inspection in the other state before being sold to you.

There is a bright side: it's unlikely that you'll fail the inspection with a new car.

For emissions inspections, it depends. The same answer applies as given to the previous question: You may be able to claim an exemption if the vehicle is being registered for the first time in Virginia and has a valid emissions certificate from within the last 12 months, per the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Why Won't Virginia Accept My Prior State's Safety Inspection?

Not all states require safety inspections, and of the ones that do, they may have a different process regarding what gets inspected. Timelines may also differ between states. Our safety inspection is yearly, but other states might require this inspection at a different interval. Finally, not all states use safety inspection stickers. Virginia does.

Think of it as a small inconvenience for all the great things ahead of you in the Commonwealth!

What's the Best Order of Operations for VA Inspections after Moving to Virginia?

1) Update your Driver's License within 60 days of moving

2) Have your vehicle(s) inspected in Virginia

3) Title your vehicle(s) in Virginia within 30 days of moving

3) Update your registration and auto insurance

As soon as you register your vehicle, it needs a valid VA safety inspection. There's no grace period. This creates a Catch-22 situation for motorists caught unaware who update their registration first. If you inspect your vehicles first, you avoid this. You do not need VA tags to have your vehicle undergo the safety inspection and receive a sticker.

See the "New to Virginia" Moving Guide from our DMV for information on what you need to do and in what order. If you already registered your vehicle, get your state inspection ASAP.

You can visit us at King's Grant Exxon in Virginia Beach if you're around the area. We're authorized to perform safety inspections.

What Gets Checked During the Safety Inspection in Virginia?

A certified safety inspector will review a range of components to determine if your vehicle is roadworthy. These include brakes and lights, mirrors and seatbelts, tires and wheels, the suspension system, and other parts and systems.

See a checklist of vehicle safety inspection items here, via the Virginia State Police.

What Happens if My Vehicle Fails the Safety Inspection?

While failing the Virginia state inspection can be disheartening, understanding the consequences and steps to remedy a failure is crucial to getting you back on the road legally.

If a motor vehicle fails the safety inspection, the owner or operator of the vehicle must correct the defects or replace the defective parts before operating the vehicle on the highways of Virginia. The owner or operator must also present the vehicle for a reinspection within 15 days of the original inspection, or within the time specified by the inspector. The reinspection fee is $1.00 unless the vehicle requires a complete inspection.

If the owner or operator of the vehicle does not comply with the inspection requirements, they may be subject to a fine of not less than $25.00 nor more than $500.00 for each offense. They may also have their registration or driver’s license suspended or revoked by the Department of Motor Vehicles. Additionally, they may be liable for any damages or injuries caused by the defective condition of the vehicle.

This information comes from the Virginia State Law website and is subject to change over time. We recommend checking this source and the others we've listed for the most up to date information.

Emissions Inspections in Virginia

For residents in cities and counties that require an emissions inspection, understanding the process is key. We'll explore the components covered, including the exhaust system, on-board diagnostics (OBD) system, and gas cap inspection.

See a list of Virginia counties and cities requiring an emissions inspection, per the Virginia DMV.

Note: Virginia Beach, where King's Grant Exxon is located, does not require emissions inspections.

1. Exhaust System:

   • Purpose: The exhaust system inspection ensures that your vehicle's emissions control components are functioning properly, reducing harmful pollutants released into the environment.
   • Inspection Process: A qualified inspector will visually check the exhaust system for leaks, damage, or any signs of tampering. Additionally, they may use an emissions analyzer to measure the levels of pollutants emitted by your vehicle. If the levels exceed the allowed limits, further diagnostics may be necessary.

2. On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) System:

   • Purpose: The OBD system monitors various components of your vehicle's engine and emissions system. The inspection aims to ensure that the OBD system is in good working order, helping identify and address potential issues early on.
   • Inspection Process: The inspector will connect a scanning tool to the OBD port in your vehicle, typically located under the dashboard. The tool retrieves information from the OBD system's computer, checking for any stored trouble codes or malfunctions. If the OBD system detects a significant issue, a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is stored, and the vehicle may fail the emissions inspection.

3. Gas Cap Inspection:

   • Purpose: The gas cap inspection is designed to prevent fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution. A properly sealed gas cap helps maintain the integrity of the vehicle's evaporative emissions control system.
   • Inspection Process: The inspector will check the condition of the gas cap and ensure it forms a proper seal when closed. Some inspections may involve using a specialized tool to pressurize the fuel system and check for leaks. If the gas cap is damaged, missing, or does not seal correctly, it may lead to a failed emissions inspection.

Remember that emissions inspection requirements may vary by locality in Virginia. Some areas may have more stringent standards or additional components checked during the inspection. Therefore, it's advisable to check with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles or the specific local inspection authority for the most accurate and up-to-date information based on your location.

Keeping your vehicle well-maintained and addressing any potential issues promptly will increase the likelihood of passing the state inspection.

Is it Time for Your State Inspection?

Familiarizing yourself with the Virginia State Inspection process is part of settling into your new home. Compliance not only contributes to your safety on the road but also to a cleaner environment in areas requiring emissions inspections. By staying informed, you'll navigate the inspection process with confidence and ease.

Welcome to Virginia, where safe and roadworthy vehicles are a priority!

If you need a Virginia state inspection in Virginia Beach, contact us. We are happy to assist you and welcome you the area!