"Vehicle Services
General Inspection Information
The Division of Motor Vehicles performs vehicle inspections at all four DMV facilities. Inspections are performed for no fee. Usually, all vehicles being titled for the first time in Delaware must be inspected. There is an exception for new vehicles never titled in any state sold by dealers who provide the buyer a Delaware Application for Title (MV212A form);these vehicles are not required to be inspected. The newest five model years of vehicles, weighing 10,000 pounds or less and being titled for the first time in Delaware are only required to have a vehicle identification number (VIN) verification.
A typical automobile inspection consists of a safety inspection covering such items as tires, brakes, windows and an exhaust emissions inspection that analyzes the vehicle's exhaust or On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) inspection and a test of the fuel system on some model year vehicles for leaks.Trailers exceeding a 4,000-pound weight limit must pass brake and safety inspections. All DMV inspection technicians are certified and trained in all aspects of the inspection process.
A vehicle inspection may occur up to 90 days before the registration expiration date. An early inspection within this 90-day cycle will not change the normal expiration date. DMV, as required by Delaware law, charges a $10.00 late fee in addition to the normal registration fee for all renewals performed after the registration expiration date of the vehicle. Owners are required to provide DMV with valid proof of Delaware liability insurance and a Vehicle Inspection Report for their vehicle to renew their registration.
Most gasoline-powered automobiles and light trucks newer than 1980 model year will receive a low and high speed (two-speed) exhaust emissions test in addition to the current tests.Gasoline-powered automobiles and light trucks 1980 model year and older will continue to receive the current (curb idle) tests. Diesel fueled vehicles are currently exempt from exhaust emissions testing but must pass safety testing for registration renewal.
The Division electronically sends registration renewal notices approximately 90 days before registrations expire. Click here to set up electronic renewal notification. The notification allows some vehicle owners to renew their registration by mail without having their vehicle inspected. The mail-in registration renewal option is only available for certain model year vehicles and depends on the vehicle's weight, type of vehicle and the number of years renewed in the last renewal cycle. Owners renewing registrations of vehicles in the first five model years can proceed to the nearest DMV registration renewal section to complete the registration process. Signs, located at the entrance of each facility, allow owners to check if their vehicle requires inspection. Owners who change their address during a registration period must notify DMV to assure that the next renewal notice goes to the correct address. Check the Vehicle Inspection Program FAQ's for more information on the inspection program and Delaware's emissions waiver program.
Tips for passing inspection:
Make sure your engine is thoroughly warmed up before you arrive so it is operating at peak efficiency
Turn off all accessories (air conditioning, heater, radio, etc.) before entering the inspection facility
Fast idle your engine for 30 seconds just prior to entering the inspection facility
Make sure that all front seat occupants have their safety belts fastened. All children must be secured in a child restraint seat or safety belt
Know the location of your vehicle's hood release lever
Provide the key for fuel caps that lock
Check your turn signals, lights, horn and windshield wipers. Have obvious defects repaired before inspection
Pay careful attention to the maintenance of your brakes and tires. For safety reasons inspectors have very strict standards for passage of these two items
If you have any questions, ask the DMV inspector for assistance
Remember - smoking is prohibited in the lanes"
