Is Inspection Required for Registration in Alabama?
Alabama does not have a mandatory safety inspection program for vehicle registration or renewal. This applies to all vehicles registered throughout the state, regardless of age, mileage, or condition.
Once your vehicle is properly registered, you can renew your registration without undergoing any safety inspections.
Emissions Inspection Requirements in Alabama
Alabama does not require emissions testing for vehicle registration. Alabama law does not provide for mandatory emissions testing of motor vehicles as a prerequisite to vehicle registration or renewal. This applies to all vehicles statewide and all counties within Alabama.
However, specific inspection requirements apply depending on whether you are registering an out-of-state vehicle for the first time in Alabama.
Alabama Vehicle Registration Requirements by County and Origin
| Vehicle Origin | Registration Type | VIN Inspection Required | Safety Inspection | Emissions Testing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Out-of-state vehicle | Initial registration | Yes | Not required | Not required |
| Out-of-state vehicle | Renewal (after Alabama title obtained) | No | Not required | Not required |
| In-state vehicle | Initial registration | No | Not required | Not required |
| In-state vehicle | Renewal | No | Not required | Not required |
Contact Information
State Department of Revenue - Division of Motor Vehicles
375 South Ripley Street
Montgomery, AL 36104
Phone: (334) 242-9000
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Official Website: Alabama Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division
State Patrol/Law Enforcement - VIN Inspections
P.O. Box 1511
301 South Ripley Street
Montgomery, AL 36102-1511
Phone: (334) 676-6003
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA)
