Vermont requires an annual safety inspection for all vehicles as well as a one-time VIN inspection for any out-of-state vehicle being registered for the first time. All vehicles manufactured in or after 1996 must also get an annual OBD emissions inspection.

The “good neighbor” provision of the Clean Air Act requires states to address the transport of air pollution to nearby states. Vehicle inspection programs are one way for states to improve air quality within a wide region.

Every state has a different set of requirements, so it’s important to understand the rules set by your state to make sure your vehicle complies.

Here to break down all the vehicle inspection requirements set by Vermont is the

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What are the vehicle inspection requirements in Vermont?

Vermont requires three types of vehicle inspection:

VIN inspections for out-of-state registrations

Safety inspections with annual registration renewals

Yearly emissions inspections, including OBD tests, which are performed at the same time as safety inspections

VIN inspections

When you apply for a Vermont title, you must submit your vehicle for a VIN inspection to check that your car’s vehicle identification number matches the information in public records.

You’ll also need to fill out a DMV VIN verification form if:

You’re titling a vehicle purchased through a private sale that was not titled or registered in your name in another jurisdiction

You’re titling a car under bond

You want to apply for an exempt car title for a car older than 25 years

You’re titling a car that was declared a salvage by another state’s DMV

Bring your verification form, driver’s license, title certificate, and registration and title application to the DMV for your inspection. If applicable, bring a bill of sale and odometer disclosure as well.

Be prepared to pay a

registration fee

between $76 and $132, which includes the cost of the VIN inspection.

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Safety and emissions inspections

Under the

Automated Vehicle Inspection Program

(AVIP), all motor vehicles in Vermont must pass a safety inspection and emissions check annually to renew registration.

All cars manufactured in or after 1996 must complete an on-board diagnostic (OBD) test, which checks your car’s engine and emissions systems. If your car was manufactured before 1996, your inspector will complete a safety inspection and a visual inspection of the fuel cap or other emissions components.

Bring your vehicle’s registration and proof of insurance to your testing appointment, along with the testing fee set by the station.

If your car’s model year is 1996 or later, be sure that your vehicle is ready for the OBD test by driving the car normally as suggested by the owner’s manual. Vermont’s AVIP has created a guide to vehicle readiness, available

here

Exceptions to the state requirements

The only vehicles that are exempt from Vermont’s emissions testing requirements are exhibition cars manufactured in or before 1940. If your car was made before 1996, your safety inspection will involve a visual inspection of emissions-related components, such as the gas cap seal, rather than the OBD test required for newer cars.

Where to get a car inspection in Vermont

For a VIN inspection, you must go to an authorized Vermont DMV inspector or obtain a letter of identification from a licensed out-of-state inspector, such as a government employee or law enforcement officer.

For safety and emissions inspections, you can find an inspection station using the AVIP

station locator

How often do you need a car inspection?

A VIN inspection is only required when titling a vehicle. Safety and emissions checks are required once a year, within 15 days of your car’s registration renewal date.

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FAQs

Do I have to get an inspection before I sell my car?

Yes. A VIN inspection is required for private vehicle sales in Vermont, and your buyer will need a valid safety and emissions inspection to register the car in their name.

How much does an emission inspection cost?

In Vermont, the cost of an emissions inspection is not regulated by the state, so it varies according to market forces. Stations must display the cost of an inspection alongside their inspection station certificate.

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