Don’t Get Fined

Schedule Your Virginia State Inspection

Is Your Car Due a State Inspection?

The Commonwealth of Virginia requires all vehicles registered in the state be subjected to annual safety inspection. If it’s been over a year since your last safety inspection, you must schedule one at an authorized mechanic like Ferber’s Tire and Auto Service in Fredericksburg, VA.

Understanding the Requirements

Unless you drive a car that is more than 25 years old and registered as an antique, your vehicle must be submitted for a safety inspection on a yearly basis. You also cannot drive the car more than 250 miles from home. Generally speaking, you have the inspection done for $51 if you drive a car. If you drive a motorcycle, the inspection will likely cost you only $12 or $20 for other vehicles like trailers and motorhomes. You should plan to spend about ½ an hour at the shop while your vehicle is inspected, but you may need more time due to the service being provided on a first-come, first-served basis. If many people are in front of you that day, inspecting your car could take several hours. Inspections must be completed at an authorized inspection station. You’ll need to check the Department of Vehicles website to locate a facility near you, such as Ferber’s Tire & Auto Service. They’ll inspect your vehicle thoroughly and look for problems highlighted in the state safety inspection. They’ll check headlights, taillights, and other lights to be sure they’re working correctly and properly wired. They’ll check your brakes for worn, missing, or damaged parts. The parking brake will the checked for accurate adjustments and alignment. The mechanic will check the suspension, steering systems, and tires for tread depth and condition. The mechanic will check your vehicle's mirrors and safety devices to ensure proper functionality. They look at the glass to be sure there are no chips or cracks, and they’ll check that wipers, blondes, and defrosters are properly functioning. Mechanics will check your emission and exhaust system for proper function and the driver’s seat to ensure it is properly secured and has working seatbelts. If your vehicle passes the inspection, you will get an approval sticker. If you fail any part of the inspection, the vehicle must be inspected again. You can still pass the inspection if you have all the failed portions repaired within 15 days of the inspection.

We Do VA State Inspections

At Ferber’s Tire & Auto Service, we offer a free brake inspection you can rely on if you are worried about passing the Virginia State Inspection. Just bring us the coupon, and we'll do the inspection before you have your car inspected next. We offer free shuttle service and ride shares to keep you on track while we work on your vehicle. Our service center is an authorized state inspection location, and we’d be happy to inspect your car for you. Give us a call today if it’s time for your state inspection.

Written by Ferber's Automotive & Body Shop