What to Know About Missouri Vehicle Safety Inspections

Missouri law requires most vehicles to pass a vehicle safety inspection performed by an authorized inspection station—like Precision Auto Sales & Service in Kansas City—unless the vehicle qualifies for an exemption.

When Is a Vehicle Safety Inspection Required? Your vehicle must pass a safety inspection if:

• It’s 10 years or older, or
• It has 150,000+ miles at the time of registration or renewal
• It’s being titled or sold (and doesn’t qualify for an exemption)
• Missouri Department of Revenue will indicate on your renewal notice if your vehicle needs to be inspected.

Model Year Rule (Even/Odd)
If your vehicle is not changing ownership, inspections generally follow this rule:
Even model years need inspection in even calendar years
Odd model years need inspection in odd calendar years

Inspection Certificates
A Certificate of Inspection and Approval is valid for 60 days from the inspection date for registration or renewal.
If purchased from a Missouri dealer, it’s valid for 90 days, as long as the inspection occurred within 60 days before the sale.

What Gets Inspected?
During a Missouri safety inspection, your vehicle will be examined for proper function and safety in several key areas:

Exterior
Headlights, turn signals, brake lights, taillights, and license plate lights
Windshield condition and wipers
Tires (including tread depth and condition)
Mirrors and horn
Bumpers and fenders

Interior & Under the Hood
Steering system (no excessive play or damage)
Braking system (including pads, rotors, and emergency brake)
Seat belts and seats
Speedometer and odometer
Exhaust system (checked for leaks and proper attachment)
Fuel system (checked for leaks and secure lines)

Under the Vehicle
Suspension components
Frame and undercarriage condition
Wheel bearings and CV joints
Driveshaft (if applicable)


At Precision Auto Sales & Service, we are a certified Missouri safety inspection station serving Kansas City. Whether you’re renewing your registration or buying/selling a vehicle, we’ll make sure your car meets all the state’s requirements.
Call us today to schedule your inspection!
📞 (816) 591-6255
📍7600 N. Church Road, Kansas City, MO. 64158