Car Inspections in Missouri: Cost, Regulations & Requirements

How much do car inspections cost in Missouri?

Does Missouri require me to get an emissions inspection?

This is not determined at the state level, but rather by county. The region in which Bo Beuckman operates, St. Louis County, indeed requires that all vehicles pass an emissions inspection. Not sure what the difference is between an emissions inspection and a safety inspection, anyhow? In simple terms, emissions inspections check if a car pollutes too much, while safety inspections make sure a car is safe to drive. For example, emissions inspections look at pollution-related parts, and safety inspections check things like brakes and lights.

What are the rules for my car inspection if my vehicle is registered out of state or if I'm not currently in Missouri?

If your title was issued in another state, your car or truck needs to be inspected to check the ID and mileage. Reversely, if your Missouri vehicle is out of the state when it's time for an inspection, you must send a notarized affidavit explaining why your car isn't present and proof of a vehicle inspection from another state.

Can I get an extension for my safety inspection if I'm temporarily out of state during the inspection period?

It doesn't matter if you're on a Caribbean cruise, completing a last-minute work trip, or dealing with a family emergency; there are simply no extensions given to Missouri drivers for their vehicles' inspection. For this reason, we recommend not waiting until the last minute to visit an authorized mechanic.

Where can I get my car inspected?

A proper inspection requires both complex tool sets and professional training. For this reason, Missouri requires you to visit an authorized mechanic or service center. 

What do mechanics check when inspecting your vehicle?

The professional will review a number of points, including but not limited to: steering brakes, the exhaust, tires and wheels, exterior lights and blinkers, engine integrity, and shocks and coil springs.

What happens if my vehicle doesn't meet Missouri's inspection standards?

If a key element doesn't pass the Missouri inspection guidelines, your mechanic will let you know and offer you a quote to fix the problem. If you choose not to fix it right then, be aware that you must find an alternative solution. Otherwise, you risk being ticketed. If you failed because of emissions standards, you have 60 days to make the necessary fix or else your registration may be suspended.

What level of window tinting does Missouri allow?

The good news is that Missouri allows you to apply tinting to protect your family from the sun. Rear and back-side windows can be tinted to whatever degree you desire (though keep safety in mind). However, Missouri requires that the front-side windows emit 35% of sunlight into the vehicle (or more). The windshield can only apply a tint above the AS-1 line.

Plus, Missouri safety inspection requirements say that the tint reflection cannot exceed 35%.

Can a car pass the Missouri inspection with the check engine light on?

Your vehicle is telling you to check your engine for good reason, so don't be surprised if you fail. In Missouri (and many other states), you won't pass the emissions test as long as this warning remained illuminated.

Can you pass a Missouri inspection if your car's tires have low air pressure?

Drive long enough, and you'll eventually your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) will alert you that your tires need more air. The question is, can you pass the inspection if this warning is lit? If your test is in Missouri, the answer is unfortunately no.

Luckily, putting new air in your tires or buying a fresh set doesn't need to be costly. If you have older tires with cracked rubber or worn treads, it may be time to upgrade.

For more insights into tires, read How Old Can Tires Be and Still Be Safe? Learn About Tire Age Laws. 

Can cars pass Missouri's inspection requirements with the airbag light on?

Airbags are not a part of Missouri's inspection process, meaning that your vehicle's warning about the airbags should not impact the results of the test.

Can you appeal the results of a safety inspection if I disagree with them?

Good news: if you suspect that the inspection station is unauthorized or has questionable practices, you can report it to the Missouri Highway State Patrol. Following this, they will audit the inspection provider and the resulting findings to confirm whether or not Missouri best practices were followed.

What if you can't afford to make the needed repairs to pass inspection? 

Low-income Missouri residents are not completely without options with options ranging from federal grants to local organizations to private charities. One example is VAC which offers low-income drivers in Boone County, Missouri with many types of expenses, including car repairs. 

What happens if you fail to update your car inspection?

Outdated inspection tags is a reason for a police officer can pull you over and give you a ticket. The cost of the ticket for missing an inspection certificate varies. Expect to pay between $75.00 - $150.00, dependent upon where you are traveling within Missouri.

However, police fines are not the worst case scenario. Remember, Missouri requires safety inspections to lessen the likelihood of breakdowns and accidents. If your mechanic deems that your vehicle is too dangerous to pass Missouri's guidelines, you're putting yourself and others at risk by continuing to drive it.