Virginia Car Inspection: The Basics and the Latest Changes

If you drive a car in Virginia, you’ve probably heard the word "inspection" tossed around. But what does it really mean for you? Is it mandatory, how often do you need it, and can you dodge extra fees? Let’s break it down in plain English so you can stay legal without wasting time.

Current Inspection Requirements

Virginia still requires most passenger vehicles to pass a safety inspection every year. The test checks brakes, lights, tires, windshield wipers, and emissions if you live in a county that enforces the emissions program. Light‑truck and commercial‑vehicle owners have similar rules, but they might need additional items like cargo‑secure checks.

Here’s who must get inspected:

• Cars, trucks, and SUVs registered in Virginia (except for a few vintage exemptions).
• Vehicles with a Virginia emissions sticker – typically those registered in the Northern Virginia counties and the Richmond area.
• Any vehicle that changes ownership – the new owner must get an inspection within 30 days.

If your car is less than five years old, you can qualify for a “new‑vehicle” exemption for the first year, but after that the yearly check comes back.

How to Save Money & Stay Compliant

Inspections can feel like a hassle, but a few smart moves keep the cost down. First, shop around. Independent garages often charge less than the dealership, and many offer a combo safety‑plus‑emissions deal for under $50. Second, keep up with basic maintenance – replace brake pads, check your lights, and keep tires inflated. When the car is in good shape, the inspector spends less time, and you avoid retests.

Don’t forget the inspection sticker. Once you pass, a sticker is placed on your windshield, showing the month and year it expires. Forgetting to renew can result in a fine of $25‑$100, plus you’ll need to get a new inspection anyway. Some DMV locations let you renew online if the vehicle passed a recent inspection and you have the sticker number handy.

If you’re moving into Virginia from another state, you have 30 days to register and get inspected. Many new‑resident drivers skip this window and end up with a ticket. Set a calendar reminder as soon as you get your registration paperwork.

Finally, watch for state updates. Rumors about canceling inspections pop up every few years, but as of 2025 the safety check is still mandatory. The DMV posts any changes on its website, so a quick visit before your renewal can save you a surprise.

Bottom line: Get your car inspected once a year, keep the sticker visible, and shop for a good price. It’s a small routine that keeps you on the road and out of the court.