
Yes, you can definitely get a car inspection on the weekend. Many service centers, including dealerships, independent repair shops, and specialized inspection stations, offer Saturday hours to accommodate working individuals. However, availability is not universal, and Sunday hours are far less common. The key is to plan ahead by calling your preferred location or using their online scheduling system to confirm weekend availability and book an appointment, as walk-in wait times can be long.
The type of inspection you need also influences your options. For a routine safety and emissions inspection (often required for annual registration renewal), many quick-service Smog Check or DEQ stations are open on Saturdays. For a more thorough pre-purchase inspection on a used car, you may need to schedule with a specific mechanic or dealership that offers weekend service.
| Inspection Provider Type | Typical Saturday Hours? | Sunday Hours? | Appointment Recommended? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dealership Service Centers | Common (e.g., 8 AM - 2 PM) | Very Rare | Highly Recommended | Often more expensive, but specialized for your car brand. |
| National Chain Auto Shops | Widespread (e.g., 8 AM - 5 PM) | Some Locations | Recommended for weekends | Convenient, may offer coupons; wait times can vary. |
| Independent Repair Shops | Varies by owner | Uncommon | Often Required | Can offer personalized service; call directly to confirm. |
| State-Only Inspection Stations | Rare | No | Walk-in Only | Typically weekday-only operations; check your state's DMV website. |
| Specialized Emissions Test Centers | Common in urban areas | Rare | Often Walk-in | Designed for high volume; best to go early on a Saturday. |
Before you go, check your state's official DMV website for specific inspection requirements to ensure you have the necessary documents, like your vehicle registration. A little research can save you a wasted trip.

Yep, weekends are your best bet if you work a 9-to-5. I always go to a quick-lube chain near me; they're open until 5 on Saturdays. Just be ready for a wait if you don't have an appointment. I showed up at 10 AM last time and it was packed, but I was still out in under an hour. Call ahead—it’s a simple step that saves a ton of time.

As someone who recently bought a used car from a private seller, getting a pre-purchase inspection on a Saturday was crucial. My regular mechanic was closed, but I found a highly-rated independent shop that offered Saturday appointments for a small fee. It was worth it for the peace of mind. The process was straightforward: I booked online, met the seller there, and the mechanic gave me a detailed report in about an hour. Always call to confirm they can do the specific inspection you need.


