In the 1970s, scientists began to make a connection between smog and car emissions. As a result, Congress passed the Clean Air Act in 1975 to curb pollutants entering the air from automobiles. To comply with this mandate, states began authorizing emissions testing locations.
The Emissions Testing Process
Not every auto repair shop can perform state inspections near you. Authorized emissions testing locations must comply with rules and regulations set by the state legislature.
First, an auto mechanic must become a certified inspector. Laws require individuals to take separate safety and emission classes. Additionally, the mechanic must pass the certification test with a minimum score of 80%.
Moreover, technicians must renew their safety licenses every 4 years and emissions every 2 years. Finally, the repair shop must have the necessary equipment to perform inspections.
Before the DMV will allow you to renew the registration on your car, you’ll need a safety inspection. Furthermore, if you live in any one of these counties, you’ll also need to find the nearest emissions testing station:
- Alamance
- Buncombe
- Cabarrus
- Cumberland
- Davidson
- Durham
- Forsyth
- Franklin
- Gaston
- Guilford
- Iredell
- Johnston
- Lincoln
- Mecklenburg
- New Hanover
- Randolph
- Rowan
- Wake
- Union
During your emissions test, the technician will hook a diagnostic computer to your vehicle’s OBD II. Since 1996, automakers have used this electronic system to self-diagnose and report malfunctions. A scanning tool either verifies that all emission components are working correctly or it spits out an error code. If you receive a diagnostic trouble code, you’ll need to make repairs to pass the emission inspection.
Exemptions From Emissions Testing
Even if you live within one of the 19 counties, the law allows for certain exemptions from emissions testing:
- A light-duty vehicle that’s 3 years old or less with 70,000 miles or less
- Vehicles 20 years or older
- Diesel powered vehicles
- Farm vehicles
Although these vehicles won’t have to undergo emissions testing, the DMV still requires safety inspections.
Furthermore, vehicles with an antique plate are exempt from both safety and emissions testing. To register as an antique vehicle in NC, your car must be at least 30 years old. Under DMV regulations, you must use these vehicles primarily for exhibitions, club activities, parades, and other public interest activities.
Process For Failed Emissions Test
Often, an illuminated check engine light will alert you to an emissions problem. However, sometimes you’ll have a problem causing your vehicle to fail the test, yet your dashboard indicator will be off.
If you fail your emissions test, you have 60 days to make repairs. Then, return to the original testing location for a retest to avoid paying an additional inspection fee.
Occasionally, your car may fail again after you’ve made repairs. In these cases, you may be able to obtain a waiver, removing the emission requirement for a year. You need to meet specific conditions for the DMV to issue the waiver:
- The vehicle has passed the safety inspection
- You have a minimum of $200 in documented repairs to fix the emissions problem
- Submission of all documents – failed inspection records and original repair receipts to the DMV
Auxiliary Services Offered At Emissions Testing Locations
Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville is one of many emission testing locations located throughout North Carolina. We provide a variety of automotive services in addition to state inspections near you. Thus, if your vehicle fails an inspection, we can repair it at our facility.
Yet, we’re so much more than simply a nearby inspection station. We’re a full-service auto repair shop with comprehensive services to maintain your car:
- Oil Changes
- Fluid Checks
- Brake inspections
- Battery testing
- Tire rotations
- Wheel alignments
- Coolant flushes
- Inspect belt and hoses
- Car Washes
- And more!
FAQs About State Inspections
Complying with state inspection laws is a necessary part of car ownership. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about them.
Do I Need To Make An Appointment For A State Inspection?
While we accept walk-ins, we recommend that busy customers make an appointment. Typically, state inspections only take about 30 minutes. However, we may have several other pre-scheduled patrons ahead of you. Furthermore, an appointment ensures we have sufficient time to address any necessary maintenance.
How Much Does Each Inspection Cost In NC?
Currently, the cost for an NC safety inspection is $12.75, and emissions $23.75 for a combined total of $30. However, the legislature is considering a bill that would raise fees by October 2025. If passed, a safety inspection would increase to $29.15, and an emissions inspection to $40.15
When Should I Have My Emissions Test Done?
In North Carolina, you cannot renew your vehicle registration before completing your required inspections. Typically, the DMV will notify you of your registration expiration 60 days before this date with a letter. Additionally, you can also check your license plate for the date on your registration sticker. Your registration expires on the last day of that month.
The DMV allows you to have your vehicle inspected up to 90 days before your registration renewal is due. Conversely, you can be subject to interest fees for failure to inspect your vehicle and renew your registration on time.
Who Should You Choose For State Inspections?
When it’s time for registration renewal, we know that there are a variety of emissions testing locations for you to consider. However, Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville offers everything you need in car maintenance in a family-friendly environment. Call us at 336-904-6319 to book an appointment today.
