What Is a Motor Vehicle Examination Certificate in Kansas?

Everything you need to know about Kansas’ motor vehicle examination certificate.
Written by Brady Klopfer
Reviewed by Carrie Adkins
background
A motor vehicle examination certificate is a certificate issued by the state of Kansas that ensures that your car is what it claims to be.
When it comes to owning a car, there are usually a lot of papers, forms, and certificates. One such piece of paperwork is the motor vehicle examination certificate. The motor vehicle examination certificate, also known as the MVE-1, the motor vehicle inspection certificate, and the motor vehicle enforcement certificate, is a certificate for drivers in the state of Kansas. But what exactly is it, and what does it mean? Read on to find out everything you need to know about the motor vehicle examination certificate.
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What is a motor vehicle examination certificate?

An MVE ticket confirms your car's identity and registration. Three types of cars require a motor vehicle examination certificate. The first are cars from outside the state that are getting a title in Kansas. The second are cars with salvage titles that are being rebuilt or reconstructed. And the third are cars where the
vehicle identification number is in doubt
.

What do you need in order to get a motor vehicle examination certificate?

When you go to get your car examined for a motor vehicle examination certificate, you need to bring the car, the original title, and a form of identification for yourself. You should also bring all of the documents from when you purchased the car, as well as any additional documents you have, such as repair receipts, liens, titles, and bills of sale.
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What is the purpose of a motor vehicle examination certificate?

The purpose of the motor vehicle examination certificate is to ensure that cars are what they claim to be, which helps suppress car theft in Kansas.

Is there a fee for the motor vehicle examination certificate?

Yes, there is a small fee for getting a motor vehicle examination certificate. As of 2020, the fee was $25 for cars with a salvage title, and $20 for all other cars. However, you don’t have to pay at the time of inspection. You can instead have the price added to your registration tag price.

Can I get a motor vehicle examination certificate online?

During the coronavirus pandemic, the state of Kansas is temporarily allowing motor vehicle examination certificates to be given out via virtual inspection. However, you’ll need to be thorough with the picture evidence you provide, including pictures of all the areas where the vehicle identification number is shown, the engine compartment, the car model, the necessary paperwork, and your identification.

Does a motor vehicle examination certificate expire?

A motor vehicle examination certificate does not expire. However, it’s worth noting that this is just a certificate stating that the car is the car you claim it is. This does not count for your title and registration, which do expire.
Key Takeaway Although an MVE doesn't expire, your title and registration will.

Who needs to be there to get a motor vehicle examination certificate?

Anyone can take a car to get the motor vehicle examination certificate. You do not need to be the owner of the car, and you don’t even need to have a Kansas driver’s license. You just need to be with the vehicle, and provide identification.

Does a car need to be insured for the motor vehicle examination certificate?

No, your car does not need to be insured when it is certified. It also does not need to be in good shape or have a license plate. However, you will have to bring your car to an inspection station with a tow if it is not in legal condition to drive.
While you don't require insurance to get an MVE, you'll still need car insurance to drive in Kansas. For the best deal on car coverage, try using
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