FAQs

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      Do all cars and light trucks need to have a  NC Auto Inspection preformed?   No
Any car or light truck, 35 years and older is exempt from the inspection process. No sticker required.
 

      What does a NC Auto Inspection cost?  
All NC Emissions test fees are strictly regulated by the State of NC DOT.
 * Emissions inspection price is $30.00  ( includes a safety inspection.)
* Safety Only inspection price is $9.10.

                                 

      Do all counties have the same rules?   No.
 * DMV determines what counties fall under the rules for emission inspection testing

              or if the county is a safety only inspection.
             * Use our DMV link to review the current listings of emission counties.
 

      Do I need a registration card to get my inspection done?   Yes.
* The only exception is if your vehicle inspection is 4 months or more out of date

            * We then use your expired registration card or

            * Letter from DMV instructing us to do the inspection under the registration denial program

 

      When does my NC  Inspection sticker expire? 

            * Your NC Inspection expires on the last day of the month and year shown on your sticker.
               There is no grace period, however, beginning October 1, 2008, this will change--Read more at the Dept. of Air Quality.

      Are there any  fines for having an expired NC Inspection sticker?    Yes
* You can be cited with a traffic ticket at any time you are a driving a vehicle with an expired sticker.

 * If your inspection is 4 months overdue, a $250.00 fine can be assessed by the state through the registration denial program.

             * Blocked registration activity can be implemented until you pay the fine and have your vehicle inspected.
 

      Can my car pass the Inspection if my Check Engine light is on?   No
* A 1996 or newer vehicle will not pass the emissions inspection portion of the inspection if the check engine light is      on.
* The system will print out information for any problems that need to be repaired that affect the emission system.

      *You will need to have the problem fixed.  After the car is repaired the computer is reset, you must drive about 60-100 miles of  highway and city normal driving to complete the drive cycle in the cars computer. If the drive cycle not complete, you will receive a Not Ready Rejection. 

 

           Will a cracked windshield pass the Safety Inspection?  Yes
            * If the crack does not tear, cut or interfere with your windshield wiper blades.

      Do I have to pay if I fail the Emissions or Safety Inspection?  Yes
* The cost is split into two portions.
* On the day of the inspection you will have to pay $23.50 (cost of emission inspection). $8.25 if safety inspection.
* You then have up to 30 days to fix the problem and return for the re-inspection
* You will have to pay $6.50 (cost of emission sticker) to complete your inspection. $0.85 if safety inspection                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

      What items are checked during the Safety and Emissions Inspection?

OBD II Compliances are also tested.