Inspection Stations & Mechanics

In Maryland, safety and emissions inspections must be done by licensed inspection stations and licensed inspection mechanics. These licensed entities help make sure vehicles meet state safety and environmental standards before the vehicles can be registered.

This page explains:

• What an inspection station is
• What an inspection mechanic is
• How licensing works
• What to do if you want to become licensed

What Is a Licensed Inspection Station?

A licensed inspection station is a place the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) has approved to do vehicle inspections. These stations:

• Perform safety inspections
• Perform emissions inspections
• Use approved tools and procedures
• Send inspection results directly to the MVA

Only licensed stations may inspect vehicles for registration or emissions compliance.

What Is a Licensed Inspection Mechanic?

A licensed inspection mechanic is a person the MVA has approved to perform vehicle inspections. Licensed mechanics:

• Conduct safety inspections in licensed stations
• Conduct emissions inspections in licensed stations
• Sign inspection certificates when a vehicle passes

Only these licensed mechanics may complete inspections that count toward Maryland registration.

How a Station Gets Licensed

To become a licensed inspection station, you must:

1. Apply to the MVA
   Submit the required application form and all supporting documents.
2. Meet Facility Requirements
   Your station must have proper space, equipment, and tools.
3. Meet Safety & Compliance Standards
   You must follow all Maryland safety and emissions inspection rules.
4. Pay the Required Fees
   All fees must be paid before the station is licensed.

Once approved, the MVA lists your station as licensed and you may start inspecting vehicles.

How a Mechanic Gets Licensed

To become a licensed inspection mechanic, you must:

1. Submit the MVA application
   The application includes your contact information and work details.
2. Meet the Qualification Standards
   You must have the training and skills required by the MVA.
3. Pass Any Required Tests
   You may be required to complete certain tests or written exams.
4. Work at a Licensed Station
   You must be employed by a licensed inspection station to perform inspections.

Once approved, you may inspect vehicles and sign inspection results.

What Licensed Stations and Mechanics Must Do

Licensed inspection stations and mechanics must:

• Follow all Maryland inspection rules
• Use approved inspection procedures
• Keep accurate records
• Complete and submit inspection results to the MVA

Failure to follow rules may result in fines, suspension, or loss of license.

Vehicle Owners: What This Means for You

When you take your vehicle for inspection:

1. Choose a licensed inspection station
   Only results from licensed stations count toward Maryland requirements.
2. Make sure your inspector is a licensed inspection mechanic
   Only licensed mechanics may sign inspection certificates.
3. Keep your inspection certificate or proof of inspection
   This may be needed for registration or recordkeeping.

Questions About Licensing

If you want to become a licensed inspection station or inspection mechanic, or if you have questions about current licensing status:

Call to action:
Contact the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration

Ready to Get Licensed or Inspected?

• If you are a business wanting to become a licensed inspection station, start by gathering the application and facility information.
• If you are a mechanic wanting to become a licensed inspection mechanic, review MVA qualification requirements and submit your application.
• If you are a vehicle owner needing an inspection, visit a licensed inspection station and ask for a licensed inspection mechanic.

Apply for licensing, find a station, or contact the MVA for help.