DC Vehicle Inspections
You need to complete your DC inspection before you can register your new car in the District, but who has the time to navigate the confusing scheduling process and take a day off of work to wait in line? United States Vehicle Registration Service takes care of every step of the inspection process. You can finish the workday in peace or enjoy your Saturday at home while we run your car through the inspection process.
Inspection
Every vehicle that is registered in the District must first pass inspection. Once inspection is finished, a sticker will be placed on the front passenger side in the lower corner of the windshield. The District does not require inspections for motorcycles or motorized bicycles. Personal vehicle inspections are valid for two years, or four years if you are the first owner of a brand-new car. Commercial vehicle inspections are valid for one year.
Depending on your vehicle, the inspection process might involve one or more of the following tests:
- On-Board Diagnostic (OBD)
- Tailpipe Idle Testing
- Visual Catalyst Inspection
- Gas Cap Test
Do You Just Need a Sticker Replacement?
Is your inspection sticker on the wrong part of the windshield? Dealership accidentally scrape off your inspection sticker? United States Vehicle Registration Service also offers DC inspection sticker replacement services.
Your Checklist
To complete your DC inspection, we need the following documents:- Vehicle registration card
- Current vehicle insurance card
- A check made out to United States Vehicle Registration Service for $225.00
We also ask that you prepare your vehicle for us to drive it down to the inspection station.
- Remove money, electronics, and valuables from your vehicle
- Ensure that the gas tank is at least 50% full
- Clean the car interior
- Tell your driver any odd habits that your car has so that they are aware
Don’t Forget!
If your vehicle does not pass inspection right away, don’t panic! Our professionals will give you experienced advice about what you should do, where you should go, and how much the repairs might cost.
If your vehicle fails, you will receive a “failed inspection” sticker that grants you 20 calendar days (not business days!) for you to repair and re-inspect the vehicle. Every car owner who goes over that 20-day period will need to pay an inspection late fee on top of the regular inspection fee. Not all test failures mean extensive or expensive repairs, so be sure to consult with us on the best next steps.
DC Inspection Is Easy with United States Vehicle Registration Service
United States Vehicle Registration Service is built around one concept—that your time is better spent anywhere but the Department of Motor Vehicles. We have mastered simplifying the DC inspection process and know how to quickly and easily handle the process from start to finish, while you’re sitting on the couch or sitting at your desk. We specialize in helping our valued customers across Washington, D.C. including Forest Hills, Chevy Chase, and Capitol Hill. If you need a DC emissions inspection, just give us a call! We’d love to give you back your time.