In most states, vehicle owners are required to have their vehicles inspected annually. This is to ensure their own safety, and the safety of other drivers and pedestrians. If drivers are caught driving in vehicles that do not have valid inspections, they can be subject to fines, and marks on driving records. Anyone who is moving to Virginia must have their vehicles inspected in the state within 30 days of moving. In addition to safety inspections, the State of Virginia also requires drivers to have emissions inspections, which help to improve the quality of the air and water in the state.
Many things are looked at during VA state inspections in Alexandria. For safety inspections, mechanics check brakes, parking brakes, headlights, signal lights, brake lights, signals, steering, suspension, mirrors, horns, windshields and windows, windshield wipers, and tires. Other things that are examined include the exhaust system, the defroster, the fuel system, the air pollution control system, and the body for rust. The interior is also checked. The mechanic will look at the driver’s seat, all seat belts, airbags and the light that indicates airbags are ready, the floor, and the doors. They will also check to make sure that there is a light over the rear license plate. If there are problems with any of these things, the vehicle will not pass the inspection. Vehicles with window tinting that is lower than three inches from the top of the windshield also will not pass.
If there are no problems with the vehicle and everything is in proper working order, the mechanic will place an inspection sticker on the inside of the windshield. The driver will receive an inspection certificate, which is pink, and which should be kept in the vehicle at all times. The inspection sticker is valid for one year from the date of the inspection. Should a vehicle fail to meet all of the requirements, the mechanic will place a rejection sticker on the inside of the windshield. Vehicle owners have 15 days to make repairs and have a new inspection performed, and can still drive during this period.
