What to Know About Washington Vehicle Inspections

Whether you’re new to the state or considering purchasing a new vehicle or a used one, you may be wondering, “Do cars need to be inspected in Washington?” The answer to that question is, generally, no, Washington vehicle inspections are not required. But there are exceptions to every rule, and there are a few to keep in mind in this case. A VIN inspection in Washington is needed to register very specific types of vehicles, and all vehicles must be certified to meet clean car requirements in Washington. 

Get all the details below, and when you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle, come and visit us at BMW Seattle!

Do Cars Need to Be Inspected in Washington State?

While the Washington vehicle inspection program officially ended in January 2020, some cars still require a VIN inspection by the State Patrol. This is simply to confirm these vehicles are safe and to ensure they are road-legal in Seattle, Bellevue, and throughout the state. Vehicles that fall under any of these categories need a Washington vehicle inspection:

• Homemade vehicles
• Vehicles that have been rebuilt after being destroyed or declared a total insurance loss
• Vehicles that have been reported stolen
• Vehicles without a proper VIN

How Do I Get a VIN Inspection in Washington State?

If your vehicle matches any of the above descriptions, you have to schedule a VIN inspection in Washington. Here are the steps to do that:

1. It’s good to confirm that you even need a Washington vehicle inspection. Locate your nearest licensing agent; this is typically your county auditor or an official subagent who issues vehicle titles and similar services. Contact them and verify that your vehicle requires a VIN inspection in Washington.
2. Schedule an appointment with the State Patrol.
3. Gather the necessary documentation, which includes a WSP Inspection Request Form that your licensing agent can provide. You’ll also need to fill out the appropriate State Patrol form for your type of vehicle; a full list is on their website.
4. Attend the inspection at the appointed time and place. The officer will perform the needed assessment, let you know if your vehicle has passed, and inform you of any next steps you’ll need to take.

What are the Clean Car Requirements for Washington State?

To register any car, the vehicle must meet clean car requirements in Washington. These requirements state that all vehicles from model year 2009 or later must be certified to meet Washington emissions standards. If your vehicle has been certified to these standards, it will state that in the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) or the emissions label usually found under the hood. Bear in mind that most new vehicles are designed to meet these standards.

Contact Us for More Information

We’ve answered some important questions, but if you have any lingering questions, don’t hesitate to contact the BMW Seattle team–we’re happy to help. When you buy from us, we will take care of all the red tape and ensure your new vehicle is ready to hit the road in Lynnwood and beyond!