What Happens If Your Car Fails an Inspection in DC?

Failing an inspection isn’t always the easiest thing to do. You must remember that it’s simple to get another test, even if you don’t have the time. That’s where United States Vehicle Registration Service can step in and help you. It’s one thing to fail a smog check, but what if it fails other areas of the test? Let’s take a closer look.

What Happens If Your Car Fails an Inspection in DC?
Failing an inspection isn’t always the easiest thing to do.

Unable-To Tests

Inspectors who work for the DC DMV will evaluate your car in several ways. Sometimes, the vehicle could be deemed unfit for testing. Some examples of how this could happen are when the vehicle is visibly smoking, there is evident physical damage, fluid leaks, worn out tires, the brakes are missing or do not work; and if the check engine light is on. Fortunately, all of these problems can be resolved, and you can bring your vehicle back for another inspection test once they have been sorted out. Failing an inspection is similar to failing the driver’s license test – keep trying and coming back until you succeed.   

When Failures Happen

The inspectors will also tag your vehicle with a “failed inspection” sticker. Once you have the label, you have 20 business days to fix the car and get it inspected and pass. You will receive a list telling you why the car failed the inspection. If you have further questions or problems that need to be addressed, a resolution coordinator can help. Even so, leaving your car with the expert team at United States Vehicle Registration Service can save you the hassle. If your vehicle is unable to pass the inspection test, you can also receive a two-year waiver from the inspection. However, for this to happen, you need to present receipts totaling $935.35 in repairs from a mechanic that has already been certified. These receipts need to be given to the DC DMV.  

Getting Another Inspection

The second inspection needs to happen within the 20 day grace period that you get after the failed inspection sticker is placed on your car. During this time, you can get two free inspections. A third inspection or testing again after the 20 days require a fee. On top of that, you will need to pay a late fee if you do not meet the deadline. The vehicle must pass the test to be registered or have its registration renewed, so this isn’t something to delay.

Questions? The United States Vehicle Registration Services Wants to Help You!

If you still have questions regarding vehicle registrations, get in touch with us and fill out our online form. Be sure to leave your name, phone number, email address, and a summary of how we can best help you. You can also feel free to give us a call at 202-342-2558 or email us at greg@usvrs.com. We can help you navigate the DMV in DC or Virginia or the MVA in Maryland. For tips, tricks, and updates, be sure that you follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms.

This entry was posted on Friday, April 12th, 2019 at 10:41 am. Both comments and pings are currently closed.