To pass a state safety and emissions inspection, a car generally needs to be in good working order with no major issues affecting its safety or environmental impact. The core requirements typically fall into a few key categories: lighting and signaling, braking systems, tires and wheels, emissions controls, and overall structural integrity. While each state sets its own specific standards, these are the universal areas inspectors examine. Missing or broken equipment, excessive exhaust smoke, or warning lights on the dashboard (like the Check Engine light) are among the most common reasons for failure.
An inspection is a systematic check. The inspector will verify that all your lights—headlights (high and low beams), brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights—function correctly. Your windshield wipers must effectively clear the glass without streaking, and the windshield itself cannot have large cracks that obscure the driver's view.
The braking system is critical. Inspectors will check for brake pad wear and ensure the vehicle stops evenly without pulling to one side. Your tire tread depth must be above the legal minimum (usually 2/32 of an inch), and the tires should show no signs of dangerous bulges or cuts. The horn must also work.
For emissions, the inspector will plug a computer into your car's OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) port, standard in all cars made after 1996. If the Check Engine Light is on or the system reports "not ready" statuses for key monitors, it's an automatic failure. They may also perform a visual check for the presence of components like the catalytic converter and gas cap.
| Inspection Category | Key Checkpoints | Common Failure Reasons |
|---|
| Lighting & Signals | Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, license plate light | Burnt-out bulbs, cracked lenses |
| Braking System | Pad/shoe wear, brake fluid level, parking brake function | Worn pads, low fluid, uneven braking |
| Tires & Wheels | Tread depth, condition, air pressure | Bald tires (below 2/32"), sidewall damage |
| Emissions | OBD-II system check, visual component inspection, gas cap test | Check Engine Light on, faulty gas cap, missing catalytic converter |
| Visibility | Windshield condition, wiper function, mirrors | Large cracks in driver's sightline, worn wiper blades |
| Safety | Seat belt functionality, horn, exhaust system | Inoperative seat belts, broken horn, exhaust leaks |
The best way to prepare is to do a pre-inspection yourself. Walk around your car and test all lights. Check your tire tread and look for dashboard warning lights. Addressing minor issues beforehand can save you the time and cost of a re-inspection.
