PA State Inspection

Pennsylvania State Inspections in Norristown, Pennsylvania

An Overview of the Regulations for Auto Safety and Emissions Inspections

Doing Our Part So You Can Do Yours

Many drivers might agree that we all have a responsibility to maintain our automobiles in a condition that does not unnecessarily endanger other motorists and minimizes our impact on the environment. Also, all vehicle owners in our state have a legal obligation to comply with safety and emissions regulations to maintain a current registration. In short, if you drive, you have to do your part. Great news! Frank’s Automotive Center in Eagleville, Pennsylvania, is here to help you with that. Our convenient location at 1018 W Germantown Pike, Norristown, PA 19403 is here to serve you. In addition, our facility is an official state inspection station. We can help you update your inspection annually as required or assist you in navigating the process if you qualify for an exemption or if your car doesn’t pass a check. Call us at (610) 539-0532 if you have questions or need help with the inspection process.

General Requirements

As stated, most drivers will need an inspection for initial Pennsylvania registration and an annual review to maintain the current registration status. In addition, nearly all automobiles with gas engines (passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks with a gross vehicle weight of 9,000 lbs. or less) are subject to a safety review. A comprehensive inspection includes multiple checks such as safety features (windshield wipers, horn, lights, mirrors, brakes, etc.) and factors contributing to general condition and drivability (chassis, speedometer, tires, wheels, suspension, steering, etc.) For example, suppose you live in Allegheny, Beaver, Berks, Blair, Bucks, Cambria, Centre, Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware, Erie, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Luzerne, Lycoming, Mercer, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, Washington, Westmoreland, or York counties. In that case, your vehicle is also subject to emissions testing (called Pennsylvania's Vehicle Emissions Inspection & Maintenance, or I/M program). The hope, of course, is that your car will pass inspection on the first attempt. However, if it fails, you're entitled to make repairs and have it reinspected at no additional charge if you have it inspected by the same provider. If there's still a problem, you're eligible for a one-year emissions standard waiver if you provide receipts showing that you spent $150 or more on emissions-related repairs in an attempt to bring your car into compliance. It is also possible that your vehicle doesn't have to meet the standards in a few cases. For example, vehicles manufactured before 1975 won't need the emissions test. Also, transportation powered by diesel fuel is exempt from the requirement.

An Official Inspection Station Near You

Even though an annual inspection is the law, your experience doesn't have to be complicated. Frank's Automotive Center is nearby and will be glad to help you through inspection. Supporting our neighbors' transportation needs since 1977, we've earned a reputation for trust and respect. So let us take care of your car, too. You can reach us at (610) 539-0532.