You can get your car inspected in North Carolina up to 90 days before your current inspection sticker expires. This early window is designed to provide flexibility and help you avoid the last-minute rush. The expiration date is printed on your current inspection sticker, located on the bottom left of your windshield. The month and year are clearly marked, and your new inspection is valid for one year from the expiration date of your previous sticker, not from the date you get the early inspection.
Understanding the 90-Day Window
The 90-day period is a generous allowance. For example, if your sticker expires in December 2024, you can get your car inspected as early as late September 2024. This system is beneficial because it spreads out the workload for inspection stations and prevents long waits for vehicle owners. It's a proactive measure to ensure your vehicle remains compliant with state law without causing a scheduling panic.
What the Inspection Covers
North Carolina requires an annual safety and, in certain counties, an emissions inspection. The safety inspection checks critical components like brakes, tires, lights, steering, and windshield wipers. The emissions test, required in 22 counties including Mecklenburg, Wake, and Guilford, measures pollutant levels from your exhaust.
| Inspection Component | What is Checked | Common Reasons for Failure |
|---|
| Brakes | Pad thickness, rotor condition, fluid leaks | Worn pads, leaking brake lines |
| Lights | Headlights (high/low beam), brake lights, turn signals | Burnt-out bulbs, cracked lenses |
| Tires | Tread depth (must be above 2/32 of an inch), condition | Bald spots, sidewall damage, uneven wear |
| Emissions (in applicable counties) | Levels of hydrocarbons (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) | Faulty oxygen sensor, catalytic converter issues |
| Windshield | Cracks, chips in the driver's line of sight, wiper function | Large cracks obstructing view |
What to Do if Your Car Fails
If your vehicle does not pass, you will receive a rejection sticker and a report listing the issues. You typically have 30 days to make the necessary repairs and return to the same inspection station for a re-inspection, often at a reduced fee or no charge for the re-check. It's wise to use the 90-day window to address any potential problems well before your official deadline.
