Vehicle safety inspections are a method states use to ensure cars and trucks on public roads are in safe operating condition. In Utah, the rules governing safety inspections have undergone a transformation, shifting the responsibility for vehicle upkeep more directly to the owners for most common types of cars. This has led to questions about which vehicles still need an inspection and what that process involves.
Current Safety Inspection Mandates in Utah
As of January 1, 2018, the requirement for most private passenger vehicles to undergo a periodic safety inspection for registration was eliminated in Utah. This legislation removed the mandate for the majority of personal cars and light trucks, shifting the responsibility to vehicle owners for maintaining their cars in a safe operating condition.
While routine inspections are no longer mandatory for most drivers, all vehicles on Utah’s roads must still comply with state laws for vehicle equipment and safety standards. A law enforcement officer can issue a citation for faulty equipment, such as burned-out headlights or worn-out tires.1Utah State Legislature. Utah Code Section 41-6a-1601 The elimination of the program simply removed the systematic check, not the requirement to keep a vehicle safe.
Specific Vehicles That Still Need Safety Inspections
Utah law specifies several vehicle types that still require a safety inspection, related to commercial use, passenger transport, or unique vehicle statuses.2Justia. Utah Code § 53-8-205 – Safety Inspection Required for Certain Vehicles
- Commercial vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more require an annual inspection.
- Commercial vehicles with a GVWR or GCWR of 10,001 pounds or more if they operate across state lines.
- School buses, buses or vans for hire, and taxicabs, all of which require annual checks.3Justia. Utah Code § 53-8-211 – Safety Inspection of School Buses and Other Vehicles
- A vehicle with a rebuilt salvage title must pass a safety inspection the first time it is registered after being repaired.
- Street-legal All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) need an inspection upon their initial registration and each time the vehicle changes ownership.
- Motorhomes with three or more axles.
Components Examined in a Required Inspection
For vehicles that require a safety inspection, the process involves a check of specific systems to ensure they meet minimum state standards. The examination is designed to identify any component that could pose a risk on the road. Inspectors evaluate:
- The vehicle’s braking system, including pads, rotors, and brake lines.
- The condition of the tires and wheels, checking for adequate tread depth and any visible damage.
- The steering and suspension systems.
- All lighting and electrical systems, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals.
- The windshield, windows, and wipers for cracks or damage that could obstruct the driver’s view.
- The horn, mirrors, and the exhaust and fuel systems.
Locating an Official Inspection Station and Associated Fees
Owners of vehicles requiring an inspection must use an officially authorized station licensed by the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS). The DPS does not provide a public list of stations online; instead, individuals should call the Safety Inspection Section office for information on station locations. Many automotive repair shops and dealerships are also certified inspection stations and will display official signage indicating this service.
The cost for a safety inspection can vary from one station to another, as the state does not set a single, flat fee, but the fees are regulated to stay within a reasonable range. It is advisable to call a few local stations beforehand to inquire about their specific fee. This helps avoid surprises and allows for some cost comparison.
Understanding the Inspection Procedure and Results
A certified inspector at an authorized station will conduct a check of the required safety components. If the vehicle meets all state standards, it will pass the inspection. The station will provide documentation, such as a certificate of inspection, which is necessary for registration purposes. For some commercial vehicles, a sticker may be placed on the vehicle as proof of compliance.
If the vehicle fails the inspection, the inspector will provide a detailed report listing the specific components that did not meet the legal standards. The vehicle owner is then responsible for having these items repaired. State rules provide up to 15 calendar days for the owner to complete the necessary repairs and return to the same station for re-inspection, which may be done for a reduced fee. Operating a vehicle that requires an inspection without a valid, passing certificate can result in fines and penalties.