Need your vehicle inspected? Kentuckians will soon pay more. Here’s how much and why
Kentucky drivers who need vehicle inspections will soon be paying more for the service, which is required for vehicles purchased outside of the state.
The change, required by a new law, is set to go into effect by mid-July when a new and more expensive fee structure is put in place for individual drivers and used car dealers.
Here’s what to know about the change and what the commonwealth requires as part of the vehicle inspection process.
When are Kentucky’s vehicle inspection fees increasing and by how much?
Vehicles inspection fees are set to increase July 15, under House Bill 833. The legislation became law in April and includes a provision that allows sheriffs offices to increase the fees they charge for conducting inspections.
Additionally, the new law allows sheriffs to appoint “special inspectors” designated to a particular dealership. Special inspectors can be assigned to a new motor vehicle dealer or a larger dealership, specifically, one that has sold on average 100 or more vehicles each month during the previous 12 months.
Before H.B. 833, the vehicle inspection fee was set at $5. Going forward, a new fee structure has been created. It includes:
- $15 for an individual who needs a vehicle inspection
- $15 for a motor vehicle dealer that does not qualify for a special inspector
- $30 for a dealer that qualifies for a designated special inspector
Under the new legislation, so-called “trip fees”—the fees inspectors can charge for traveling to an off-site inspection, like at a used car dealership—are increasing from $10 to $20 per trip.
On a separate but related note, Kentucky owners of hybrid and fully electric vehicles must now pay new “ownership fees.” The new fee structure helps finance Kentucky’s Road Fund, and it’s been in effect since January. The new fees are:
- $120 for electric vehicles
- $60 for hybrids
- $60 for electric motorcycles
When do I need a vehicle inspection in Kentucky and why?
Kentucky residents only need a vehicle inspection when they are registering a vehicle from outside the state or purchased one out of state with the intention of obtaining a local license plate for it. A vehicle inspection is also a requirement for out-of-state vehicles to be issued a Kentucky title.
In the Bluegrass State, inspections are performed in the county where the vehicle is being licensed. The inspections are meant to guarantee the vehicle is “road worthy” and safe. They typically take about 15 to 30 minutes.
To arrange an inspection, check with your local sheriff’s office. You’ll need to be present with your vehicle for the inspection and bring the out-of-state title or certificate of origin.
What will be inspected:
- The vehicle’s identification number or VIN
- Odometer reading
- Brakes
- Steering
- Lights and turn signals
- Window glass (must be in place)
- Front windshield wipers
The inspector will complete a Kentucky application for certificate of title/registration form, which you take to your county clerk’s office to get your plates.
Do you have a question about the law in Kentucky for our service journalism team? Send us an email at ask@herald-leader.com or fill out our Know Your Kentucky form.