What to Expect During a North Carolina State Vehicle Inspection

If your vehicle is registered in North Carolina, you're required to have a state inspection once a year before you renew your registration. At Yeargan's Automotive, we’re here to make the process easy and help you understand exactly what to expect.

The Two Types of Inspections in North Carolina

North Carolina requires two types of inspections depending on your location and vehicle type:

1. Safety Inspection (Statewide)

Required for all vehicles registered in North Carolina.

2. Emissions Inspection (Select Counties)

Required only in 22 counties, including Wake, Durham, and Johnston. (If you’re unsure whether this applies to you, we can check for you.)

What’s Included in a North Carolina Safety Inspection?

The safety inspection ensures that your car is in good working condition and safe to drive. Our certified technicians will check:

• Brakes (pads, lines, fluid)

• Headlights and taillights

• Turn signals

• Windshield wipers

• Horn

• Steering and suspension

• Tires (tread depth, wear, and pressure)

• Rearview and side mirrors

• Seatbelts

The inspection also includes verifying that:

• There are no illegal window tints (must allow more than 35% light transmission).

• Your license plate is securely attached and illuminated.

  
  

What About Emissions Testing?

If your car is registered in a designated emissions county and is a gas-powered vehicle less than 20 years old, it will also require an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) emissions inspection.

This involves:

• Connecting to your car’s computer system to check for emissions-related codes.

• Verifying your gas cap holds pressure to prevent fuel vapor leaks.

Exemptions include:

• Vehicles 20 years or older

• Fully electric vehicles

• Diesel vehicles (only get safety inspections)

  
  

Timing and Cost

• Inspection Due Date: Must be completed within 90 days before your registration expires.

• Inspection Fee:

  • Safety Only: $13.60

  • Safety + Emissions: $30.00

  • Fees are set by the state and don’t include any repairs if needed.

    
    

What If Your Vehicle Fails?

If your car doesn’t pass inspection, don’t panic. We’ll provide a report outlining the issue(s). You have 60 days to complete repairs and return for a reinspection at no additional charge (for the same issue).

If your repairs exceed $250 in emissions-related costs, you may qualify for a waiver under NC’s Repair Cost Waiver program.

Tips to Help You Pass the First Time

• Check your lights (including tag lights).

• Replace worn wiper blades.

• Make sure the check engine light is off.

• Don’t let your tires go bald—check tread with a penny.

• If your windows are tinted, ensure they meet legal limits.

  
  

Final Thoughts

North Carolina’s inspection program is designed to keep you, your passengers, and fellow drivers safe. At Yeargan's Automotive, our trained technicians will walk you through the process and answer any questions you have along the way.

👉 Ready for your NC inspection? Schedule your appointment with us now:

(919)942-9009 / yeargansauto.com