The Maryland State Safety Inspection is required for vehicles that are being newly registered in the state of Maryland or are being registered under a new owner. For this reason, you only need to get your vehicle inspected once in the state of Maryland (unless it falls out of registration and needs to be re-registered).
Because the vehicle inspection checks the safety features and performance of cars and trucks (including brakes, lights, tires, belts, harnesses, and more), if a vehicle fails, you are not legally permitted to drive it until repairs have been completed.
As a certified MD inspection station, Hoffmaster Auto Care assists vehicle owners with repairs, reinspections, and more. Learn what to do if your vehicle fails the safety inspection, if and for how long you can drive the vehicle, and what to do to pass the vehicle inspection and get your vehicle registered.
What Happens After You Fail an MD Safety Inspection
Inspection Report
All vehicle inspections generate an inspection report that indicates a pass or fail. Your auto shop can provide a copy of the inspection report and review the information with you. For a failed vehicle inspection, the inspection report will note what items are in disrepair and what repairs are needed in order for the vehicle to pass safety standards.
Not Road Legal
Your vehicle is not road legal, cannot be registered, and should not be driven unless it is to or from an inspection station. From the date of the failed inspection, you have 30 days or 1,000 miles (whichever occurs first) to have the repairs completed and the vehicle re-inspected.
Repairs
Most inspection stations can offer repairs on-site, so your vehicle can immediately pass the inspection without having to leave and schedule a second appointment. Once the repairs are completed, your vehicle will pass the inspection. If you choose to complete the repairs yourself, or have them done somewhere else, you will need to reschedule your safety inspection.
Reinspection
In most cases, you can have your vehicle reinspected at the same shop for no additional fees; the auto shop will reinspect only the items that failed in order to approve the repairs. You have the option to schedule an inspection or reinspection at another shop; however, you will be charged the inspection fee.
Registration
Once your vehicle passes inspection, you have 90 days to get your vehicle registered. Once your vehicle is successfully registered, you do not have to undergo any more Maryland safety inspections as long as the car is under your ownership. Your car is road legal and good to be driven throughout the state.
Please note, this does not apply to emissions testing, which must be done every two years in the state of Maryland for most vehicles.
Prepare Your Vehicle for the MD Safety Inspection
Certified inspection stations and auto repair shops like Hoffmaster’s Auto in Silver Spring, MD can assist with your vehicle preparation ahead of the inspection. We can complete all necessary repairs in order to streamline your inspection and avoid reinspections or repair delays. By staying on top of vehicle safety repairs, your car is road legal and safer to drive.
Review the MD safety inspection checklist and contact Hoffmaster’s for an appointment today. We can assist with repairs, inspections, reinspections, and more. Stay safe on the road. Call today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my vehicle if it fails the Maryland state inspection?
In most cases, no, your vehicle is not legal to drive after it has failed the Maryland state inspection. You have 30 days or 1,000 miles, whichever occurs first, to drive your vehicle to and from auto shops for the necessary repairs and reinspection. Without a passing inspection report, you cannot register your vehicle in the state of Maryland.
What happens if my vehicle fails the Maryland vehicle inspection?
If your vehicle fails the Maryland safety inspection, you will receive a report identifying the items that need repair. You must have the necessary repairs completed and bring the vehicle back for reinspection within 30 days. Once the vehicle passes, you can use the approved inspection certificate to complete your vehicle registration.
How long do I have to fix my vehicle after it fails a Maryland inspection?
Maryland allows 30 days or 1,000 miles driven, whichever comes first, for repairs and reinspection following a failed safety inspection. If you exceed that period, your vehicle may need a completely new inspection. Confirm the deadline on your inspection report or with your inspection station.
Do I have to pay for another inspection if my vehicle fails in Maryland?
You may need to pay for repairs and a reinspection, depending on the inspection station’s policies. Some stations offer a no-charge or reduced-cost reinspection if you return within a specified period. Ask your inspection station about its reinspection fees before scheduling your follow-up visit.
Can I drive my vehicle to a repair shop after failing the Maryland state inspection?
Maryland allows vehicles that failed the safety inspection 30 days or 1,000 miles, whichever occurs first, to travel to repair shops and reinspection stations. In some situations, you may need to apply for a temporary registration. Consult with the MVA if you have any questions.
What repairs are most common after failing a Maryland vehicle inspection?
Common reasons for failing a Maryland safety inspection include worn tires, faulty brakes, damaged lights, windshield or visibility problems, worn steering or suspension components, and other safety-related defects. Your inspection report will identify the specific items that must be corrected before your vehicle can pass. You can also schedule a tune-up and repairs before your safety inspection to avoid a reinspection fee if you believe your vehicle will fail.
Can I get my Maryland vehicle inspection completed at a different shop after failing?
Yes. You can contact another Maryland-authorized inspection station about completing the required repairs and inspection. However, ask whether the station can perform a reinspection based on your existing report or whether a full inspection will be required. Keeping your original inspection report and repair documentation can help make the process smoother.
Hoffmaster's Auto Care
Our mission at Hoffmaster’s Auto Care is to provide our customers with the highest level of car repair service and expertise, delivered with honesty, integrity, and a commitment to excellence. Hoffmaster’s Auto Care in Silver Spring, MD has been in business for more than 40 years. All our technicians are ASE certified. You can rely on our experience and knowledge for high-quality auto repair and maintenance services.
