Can I Get My Car Inspected Without Insurance?

Last Updated on February 16, 2026

Car inspections help keep vehicles safe, reduce breakdown-related crashes, and (in many places) cut down on tailpipe pollution. Depending on where you live, you may need an inspection when you renew registration, buy a car, or move a vehicle into a new state.

But drivers often ask: Do you need insurance to get a car inspection? And if you haven’t purchased a policy yet, can you still pass inspection—or even get the test done?

Here’s how inspections work, what stations typically check, and the realistic options if you need an inspection but you aren’t insured yet.

1. Insurance Requirements Vary by State: Some inspection programs verify insurance, while others focus only on safety/emissions compliance.
2. Driving Uninsured Is Usually the Real Barrier: Even if a station doesn’t check insurance, you typically still need coverage to legally drive to the inspection location.
3. Inspections and Registration Often Go Together: Many states require a passing inspection and minimum liability coverage before you can register or renew registration.
4. You May Have Workarounds: Buying a policy first, towing the vehicle, or using a temporary permit (where available) can help you stay compliant.

When Do You Need a Car Inspection?

Inspection rules vary by state (and sometimes by county). Some states require periodic safety inspections. Others require emissions testing only. And a number of states have no ongoing inspection requirement for most passenger vehicles.

Most inspection requirements fall into two buckets:

• Safety inspections: Focus on roadworthiness (brakes, lights, tires, steering, etc.).
• Emissions inspections: Measure or scan for pollution-related issues (often via an OBD system test on newer vehicles).

You’re most likely to need an inspection in these situations:

• Registration renewal: Many states tie inspection compliance to the registration process.
• Buying a used car: Some states require a passing inspection before registration can be issued to the new owner, especially when purchasing a used vehicle.
• Moving from out of state: You may need a new inspection to register in your new state.

Also, keep in mind that an insurance company may sometimes request a separate inspection (usually tied to physical damage coverage, like comprehensive/collision). That’s different from a state safety/emissions inspection and depends on the insurer and your situation.

What Happens During a Car Inspection?

Inspection stations usually start by confirming basic information about the vehicle (VIN, plate, registration info, and inspection type). In some states, stations may also ask for proof of insurance or financial responsibility—but that’s not universal.

For a typical safety inspection, the technician may check items like:

• Exterior condition: Doors, hood, bumpers, and major dents and dings that could create hazards or block visibility of plates/lights.
• Undercarriage: Loose components, damaged parts, or excessive rusting that could affect safety.
• Windshield and windows: Cracks and damage that interfere with safe visibility.
• Wipers and washers: Basic visibility and function checks.
• Tires and brakes: Tread depth, obvious damage, and brake performance indicators.
• Lights and signals: Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, hazard lights, and plate lights.
• Core safety items: Seat belts, steering/suspension, mirrors, horn, and obvious fluid leaks.

Emissions tests vary by state, but many use an OBD scan (check engine/light-related readiness monitors) rather than a tailpipe test for newer vehicles.

Can You Get a Car Inspection Without Insurance?

It depends. Some states (or inspection programs) require the station to confirm insurance as part of the inspection process. Others don’t require the station to check insurance for the inspection itself.

However, there’s a second issue that matters even more: getting to the inspection station legally. In most cases, driving without insurance is illegal unless you qualify for a state-approved alternative method of coverage.

If you’re caught driving without proof of coverage, you can face penalties. Here’s what that can look like: illegal to drive without insurance.

What to Do If You Need an Inspection but Aren’t Insured Yet

If you need an inspection to register a car but you’re uninsured, these options are usually the safest place to start:

• Buy insurance first (often easiest): In many states, you can purchase a policy using the VIN before registration is finalized. Then you can drive legally to the inspection.
• Tow the vehicle to the inspection station: Towing helps you avoid driving uninsured. Call the station first, because some locations still require proof of insurance even if you tow the vehicle in.
• Ask about a temporary permit: Some DMVs offer short-term movement permits for specific purposes. Requirements vary, and some permits still require insurance.
• Check financial responsibility alternatives: A few states allow options like self-insurance or showing sufficient assets. These tend to be more complicated (and sometimes expensive) compared to buying a basic liability policy.

Also remember: even if an inspection station doesn’t request proof of coverage, you may still need insurance to complete registration and meet your state’s legal minimum amount of coverage.

Final Word on Car Inspections and Insurance

Some states and stations verify insurance during inspections, while others don’t. Either way, you usually still need insurance to legally drive the car to the station—and you often need coverage to register the vehicle in the first place.

Before you go, confirm your state’s rules and your station’s document requirements, then show up with your vehicle registration and title documents (as applicable) and any proof of coverage your location requires. If you’re wondering about timing, here’s a breakdown: get a car inspection.

FAQs on Car Inspections and Insurance