Car Inspection Costs: What to Expect in 2025

Having your car inspected is a crucial step in maintaining your vehicle's safety, reliability, and compliance with state laws. These inspections can uncover hidden issues before they become costly repairs, and provide you with peace of mind that your car meets safety and emissions standards.

Whether you’re scheduling your first inspection or preparing for your annual renewal, knowing the average costs and what factors can drive them up (or down) will help you budget wisely.

In this guide, the WorkMoney team breaks down what car inspection costs look like in 2025, explains what influences the price, and shares tips to avoid unexpected fees—so you can walk into your next inspection with confidence.

National Overview: The Cost of Staying Compliant

Several states require emissions and/or safety inspections to ensure vehicles on the road are up to each state’s respective requirements, while others do not. Moreover, some states have unique requirements from one county to another. The best way to find out if you need to have your vehicle inspected or tested is to visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website.

While requirements for a vehicle to be compliant will vary, the cost for testing ranges from $10 to $80 per inspection, depending on the state and whether the test covers safety, emissions, or both.

• Cheapest states: Kentucky and Louisiana keep inspection costs at the low end at under $20. Maine also falls in this bracket, with inspections typically $12.50–$18.50.

• Mid-range states: Many states, including New York and North Carolina, and Virginia, land in the $20–$30 range for annual safety or emissions inspections.

• Most expensive states: States with stricter emissions standards drive costs higher—California and Rhode Island can see inspection fees of $55–$75+.

While the amount will vary, it’s important to prioritize getting your vehicle inspected. These inspections can be helpful to detect any potential issues with your vehicle. Depending on the state, you can potentially receive a fine if you’re inspection isn’t up to date. 

Each State's Requirements

It’s important to understand your state’s requirements regarding testing. You can find information about each state’s respective requirements on their DMV websites. Be aware that the most up-to-date information will always be on your state’s website.

This information is subject to change, so the WorkMoney team linked each state to its respective Department to find the most up-to-date information.

Pro tip: If your state has variable costs associated with vehicle inspection, you can save money by shopping around. Additionally, if you want to save more on car costs, you can refinance your car loan through Caribou and save on your next trip to the gas station with Upside.

How to Save On Testing Costs

Just like how testing varies by state, pricing models do as well. In some states, inspections have a fixed cost, regardless of where you have your vehicle inspected. 

If your state allows for variable pricing, here are a few tips to save on vehicle inspection costs.

1. Look for discounts - National auto retailers like Firestone and Pep Boys may offer discounts for your inspection, as well as other services paired with it.

2. Repair Assistance Programs - Several states, including California, Utah, Arizona, and Indiana, offer financial assistance to those who have vehicles that don’t pass. These assistance programs are income-based, so be sure to check the eligibility requirements to see if you qualify.

3. Use a cash back rewards credit card - When you purchase the test, consider using a cash back credit card that gives additional rewards at vehicle repair centers.

Final Thoughts

Car inspection costs can be budgeted for, but if car costs become burdensome on your budget, it may help to open a savings account to start saving money for car-related expenses, such as insurance, new tires, maintenance, and inspection costs.