Indiana Car Inspection
Indiana car inspection requirements mandate that drivers complete a VIN inspection when first registering a vehicle. Emissions tests are required in some counties.
Written by Melanie Reiff
Reviewed by Carrie Adkins
Drivers in
Indiana
are required to get a VIN inspection the first time they register an out-of-state vehicle. Emissions tests are also required upon registering your vehicle, but they may be required more frequently in some counties. Safety inspections are not mandated in Indiana. In 1977, the Clean Air Amendment was passed which required states to implement vehicle emissions inspection measures in metropolitan areas where the air quality was below the federal standard. Each state sets its own requirements, which can even vary based on zip code.
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What are the vehicle inspection requirements in Indiana?
When you register an out-of-state vehicle for the first time in Indiana, you are required to complete a
VIN inspection
and an emissions test. For most drivers, this is a one-time inspection. However, if you reside in Lake or Porter County, you are required to complete emissions and tampering inspections every two years if:
- Your car was manufactured after 1975
- Your car has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 9,000 pounds or less
Safety inspections are not required in the state of Indiana, but it may be a good idea to complete a safety inspection if you
purchase a used car
. Additionally, other states require safety inspections, so it’s smart to keep your car up-to-date if you are planning on moving. There is no fee associated with smog checks in Indiana.
Exceptions to the state requirements
There are some exemptions to Indiana’s emissions test requirements. Exemptions include:
- Vehicles manufactured in the last four years
- Diesel or electric vehicles
- Vehicles registered as a show or antique car
- Vehicles weighing more than 9,000 pounds
- Tractors or farm-use vehicles
Where to get a car inspection in Indiana
To get an emissions inspection in Indiana, drivers need to go to an authorized inspection site. To find a site nearest to you, visit
Clean Air Car Check
. VIN inspections can be done at any Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles branch or any BMV certified service provider.
How often do you need a car inspection?
Drivers who are
registering a car in Indiana
for the first time will need to do a one-time VIN and emissions test. That said, if you live in Porter or Lake County, you will need to complete an emissions test every two years unless otherwise exempt.
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FAQs
Do I have to get an inspection before I sell my car?
While it is not required to get an inspection before you sell your car in Indiana, it is suggested that you complete an inspection or allow the buyer to complete one before continuing with the sale.
How much does an emissions inspection cost?
There is no fee for an emissions test in Indiana.
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