Nevada Car Inspection Laws

Required motor vehicle inspections and emissions testing are an integral part of maintaining the safety and longevity of a vehicle. Car owners in Nevada must meet the following state inspection laws in order to apply for registration and legally drive their vehicle.

When drivers neglect these requirements and an accident occurs as a result, our Las Vegas, Nevada car accident lawyers can help you pursue compensation by proving the other party’s failure to comply with state safety regulations.

Inspections Before Registration

It is illegal to drive a vehicle in Nevada that is not registered. However, before heading to the DMV, there are inspections that must take place to be in compliance with the law. 

New to Nevada

Drivers have around 30 days to have their car registered once they move to Nevada, and must possess:

• Current registration and plates on vehicle
• Title to the vehicle
• The Nevada Emission Vehicle Inspection Report
• The Vehicle Inspection Certificate
• A completed Application for Vehicle Registration 

New Vehicle From Dealer

Drivers who purchase a new car in Nevada will need: 

• Proof of car insurance
• Copy of the Dealership Report of Sale
• Nevada Emission Vehicle Inspection Report
• A completed Application for Vehicle Registration

Vehicle From Out-of-State Dealer

Nevada residents who purchase a vehicle from an out-of-state dealer, will need the following to get it registered: 

• Bill of sale from the dealer
• Proof of insurance
• An odometer statement for the vehicle in question
• The lease agreement
• Nevada Emission Vehicle Inspection Report
• An approved Vehicle Inspection Certificate
• A completed Application for Vehicle Registration

Nevada Emission Vehicle Inspection Report

Vehicle emissions testing is required for most vehicles, as lawmakers are serious about protecting the public and the environment from vehicle-related air pollution. First off, determine if your vehicle must pass the test or is exempt. New cars or trucks are exempt until after their first and second registration cycles. Additional vehicles that do not have to meet this requirement, include: 

• Hybrid electric cars that are in their first five model years
• Cars made in or before 1967
• Motorcycles and mopeds
• Alternative-fuel vehicles
• Vehicles in remote areas, testing areas can be checked here
• Diesel vehicles that weigh over 14,000 pounds
• Vehicles that are registered as classic cars and are driven less than 2,500 miles a year
• Replica vehicles
• Registration and/or testing 90 days before a transfer of ownership.

Registered owners of vehicles that must have an emission inspection will likely be required to have one conducted at each annual renewal. The mailed renewal notice will indicate if a test is necessary. After an emissions test, the results are valid for 90 days from the date of its completion. Emission tests for vehicles purchased by a Nevada dealer are valid for 180 days. 

Where Do I Go for Emission Testing?

Emissions testing is handled by private businesses licensed by the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). These include:

• Test-only stations: Perform inspections but do not offer repairs
• Test-and-repair stations: Perform inspections and can fix issues if your vehicle fails
• “On the Spot” stations: Offer testing and allow you to renew your registration at the same location

These stations electronically transmit results directly to the DMV. The cost of emissions (smog) testing in Nevada is set by individual licensed stations, not the DMV. However, it standardly ranges from $20 to $40 and an additional $6 emissions certificate fee.  

How to Find a Licensed Smog Check Station

You can search for an authorized station by using the DMV’s online locator: Nevada DMV Emissions Station Locator. Search by ZIP code, city, or station name. Make sure the station clearly displays a Nevada DMV license and provides same-day electronic reporting.

VIN Inspection Requirements

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection verifies that the VIN on a vehicle matches the official documentation. This inspection is required in the following specific circumstances.

When VIN Inspections Are Required

• When registering a vehicle in Nevada for the first time
• When bringing a vehicle into Nevada from another state
• When registering a vehicle with missing or altered VIN information
• For rebuilt or homemade vehicles

VIN inspections help prevent fraud and ensure that the vehicle has not been stolen or tampered with. 

Where Do I Go For VIN Inspection?

You can get a VIN inspection at the following places:

Nevada DMV Offices

Most full-service DMV offices offer VIN inspections for free during normal business hours. No appointment is needed, but you must bring your vehicle and proper documentation.

DMV-Affiliated Emissions Stations

Some licensed emissions stations in Clark and Washoe counties also offer VIN inspections that range from $10 to $25. Call ahead to confirm availability.

Local Law Enforcement Agencies

In rural areas or for specialty vehicles, county sheriffs or city police departments may conduct VIN inspections either for free or a small fee. Contact your local agency for procedures and availability.

What to Bring for a VIN Inspection

• Vehicle
• Title or proof of ownership
• Out-of-state registration (if applicable)
• Government-issued ID

The process usually takes only a few minutes. Make sure the VIN plate is clean and clearly visible.

What Happens if You Fail Emissions Testing?

An emissions inspection is designed to flag vehicles that are emitting an unreasonable amount of smog. If a vehicle fails the initial test, owners are responsible for having the necessary repairs done at a licensed facility. The inspector will provide a full report, explaining what needs to be done. If owners cannot afford to fix their vehicle, it must be kept off the road. Once repairs are finished, the vehicle can be tested again. If the vehicle fails the second test, a waiver may be issued. A waiver allows the owner until next the registration renewal to resubmit an emissions test. Waivers cannot be issued to vehicles with warranty coverage, smoking vehicles, or emission device tampering. Refusing to comply with Nevada’s car inspection laws can result in traffic tickets and fines.

Tips to Pass a Smog Check in Nevada

Follow these tips to increase your chances of passing an emissions test the first time:

• Check the “Check Engine” Light: If the light is on, your vehicle will automatically fail. Diagnose and repair the issue before testing.
• Warm Up Your Vehicle: Drive for at least 15–20 minutes before the test to ensure the engine and emissions system are fully operational.
• Avoid Recent Battery Disconnects: Resetting the onboard diagnostic (OBD) system can result in an “incomplete” monitor status and a failed test.
• Complete Routine Maintenance: Replace air filters, spark plugs, and engine oil if needed. Clean systems reduce emissions.
• Inspect for Leaks: Fix any exhaust or vacuum leaks that could increase emissions output.
• Consider a Pre-Test: Some stations offer unofficial checks to identify issues before the real test.

Speak to Our Car Accident Lawyer

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident caused by another’s negligence, contact our office today. Our car accident attorneys in Las Vegas will discuss your legal options during a free consultation.