{"id":20870,"date":"2026-10-20T11:06:15","date_gmt":"2026-10-20T11:06:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection-2026-who-needs-one-cost-checklist\/"},"modified":"2026-10-21T11:07:53","modified_gmt":"2026-10-21T11:07:53","slug":"missouri-safety-inspection","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/","title":{"rendered":"Missouri Safety Inspection 2026: Who Needs One, Cost, Checklist"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You just bought a used car in Missouri, or you are about to bid on one, and the license office wants to know if it needs a safety inspection. The answer depends on the car\u2019s age and mileage, and the clock starts the day you buy it. Here is who needs one in 2026, what it costs, what fails a car, and how it fits into titling a car in the St. Louis area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote rs-answer-box is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The short answer:<\/strong> Yes, Missouri still requires safety inspections in 2026. A 2026 bill to end most of them passed the House but never became law. Cars under 11 years old with under 150,000 miles are exempt. Everything else needs a passing inspection, no more than 60 days old, to title or register. Stations can charge up to $12.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Updated October 20, 2026. Checked against the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Missouri Department of Revenue, the Missouri Revised Statutes, the Missouri House of Representatives, and the Gateway Vehicle Inspection Program. Sources are linked at the bottom.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-key-takeaways\">Key takeaways<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Still required:<\/strong> the 2026 repeal bill (HB 1838) stalled in the Senate. Inspections did not go away.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Exempt:<\/strong> cars under 11 years old with under 150,000 miles. Rebuilt salvage cars are never exempt.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Timing:<\/strong> the inspection can be no more than 60 days old when you title, or 90 days if a Missouri dealer sold you the car.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cost:<\/strong> up to $12 for cars and trucks, up to $10 for motorcycles and trailers. One free reinspection within 20 business days at the same station.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Windshield:<\/strong> a crack longer than 3 inches in the driver\u2019s wiper area fails the car.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>St. Louis area:<\/strong> St. Louis City and St. Louis, St. Charles, and Jefferson counties also need an emissions test, up to $24.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-going-away\">Is Missouri getting rid of safety inspections?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not yet. In February 2026 the Missouri House passed <a href=\"https:\/\/house.mo.gov\/bill.aspx?bill=HB1838&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">HB 1838<\/span><\/a>, which would have ended most passenger car safety inspections starting January 1, 2027. The House bill page shows its last action on March 30, 2026, when a Senate committee voted it do pass. It never reached a final vote, so it was not truly agreed or sent to the governor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That means the current law, <a href=\"https:\/\/revisor.mo.gov\/main\/OneSection.aspx?section=307.350\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">RSMo 307.350<\/span><\/a>, still applies for the rest of 2026. Repeal bills come back almost every session, so check again after the 2027 session ends in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-who-needs\">Who needs a Missouri safety inspection?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every vehicle that has to be registered in Missouri needs one, unless it falls into an exemption. The statute exempts cars during the ten years after their model year as long as they have under 150,000 miles. The Department of Revenue puts it as under eleven years old and under 150,000 miles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Your car<\/th><th>Safety inspection needed?<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Under 11 years old and under 150,000 miles<\/td><td>No<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Under 11 years old but 150,000 miles or more<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>11 years old or older, any mileage<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Rebuilt from a salvage title<\/td><td>Yes, right after rebuilding, no matter the age<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Historic vehicle plates<\/td><td>No<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Registered and kept in another state<\/td><td>No Missouri inspection. Follow that state\u2019s rules.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">From RSMo 307.350 and the Missouri Department of Revenue, checked October 20, 2026.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In 2026 that usually means a 2016 or newer car with under 150,000 miles skips the inspection, and a 2015 or older car needs one. If you are close to the line, ask the license office before you pay for a test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-title-transfer\">Do you need a safety inspection to title a used car in Missouri?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, if the car is not exempt. The <a href=\"https:\/\/dor.mo.gov\/motor-vehicle\/titling-registration\/buying-vehicle.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Department of Revenue buying a vehicle page<\/span><\/a> lists a safety inspection that is no more than 60 days old, or no more than 90 days old if a Missouri dealer sold you the car and it was inspected within 60 days of the sale. You also have 30 days from purchase to title the car and pay sales tax. Miss it and the penalty starts at $25 and grows every 30 days, up to $200.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So the order matters when you buy from a private seller or an auction:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>1. Get the title signed over to you<\/strong> with the odometer reading and a bill of sale.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>2. Get the safety inspection<\/strong> if the car is not exempt. Do it early, so you have time to fix anything that fails.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>3. Get the emissions test<\/strong> if you live in the St. Louis testing area.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>4. Go to a license office<\/strong> within 30 days of buying, with the title, inspection paperwork, proof of insurance, and Form 108.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-title-transfer\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Missouri title transfer guide<\/span><\/a> covers every form and fee, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-car-sales-tax-st-louis\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Missouri car sales tax in St. Louis<\/span><\/a> shows what you will owe at the counter. Bringing a car in from another state, such as one shipped from an auction? See <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/register-out-of-state-car-missouri\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">registering an out-of-state car in Missouri<\/span><\/a>. Got the car as a gift? The same inspection rules apply, and our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/gift-car-family-missouri\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">gifting a car in Missouri<\/span><\/a> covers the rest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-renewal\">How often do you need a safety inspection to renew tags?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every two years for cars that are not exempt. The schedule follows the model year. Even model years are inspected in even calendar years, and odd model years in odd calendar years. The inspection has to be done within 60 days before you renew. Your renewal notice will say if you need one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cost\">How much does a Missouri safety inspection cost?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The state sets a maximum and each station picks its price under it. Here are the caps from <a href=\"https:\/\/revisor.mo.gov\/main\/OneSection.aspx?section=307.365\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">RSMo 307.365<\/span><\/a> and the Gateway Vehicle Inspection Program:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Test<\/th><th>Maximum fee<\/th><th>Retest<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Safety inspection, car or truck<\/td><td>$12<\/td><td>One free reinspection at the same station within 20 business days<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Safety inspection, motorcycle or trailer<\/td><td>$10<\/td><td>Same rule<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Emissions test, St. Louis area only<\/td><td>$24<\/td><td>One free retest at the same station within 20 business days<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">From RSMo 307.365, the Highway Patrol inspection brochure, and the Gateway Vehicle Inspection Program, checked October 20, 2026.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The real cost is the repairs. A $12 inspection that finds worn tires and a cracked windshield can turn into a few hundred dollars, so build that into your bid on an older car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-checklist\">What does a Missouri safety inspection check?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Only licensed inspector mechanics can do it. The Highway Patrol\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/apps.mshp.dps.mo.gov\/MSHPWeb\/Publications\/Brochures\/documents\/SHP-515.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">inspection brochure (SHP-515)<\/span><\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/apps.mshp.dps.mo.gov\/MSHPWeb\/PatrolDivisions\/DVSD\/MVI\/documents\/MVIRegulationsManual.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">inspection regulations manual<\/span><\/a> list what gets checked. Here are the items and some of the most common reasons a car is rejected:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Item<\/th><th>What gets a car rejected<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Brakes<\/td><td>Pedal, lines, hoses, and linings. A wheel is pulled to look at the brakes. Bonded linings thinner than 2\/32 inch fail.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tires and wheels<\/td><td>No tread pattern left outside the wear bars, exposed cord, cuts or bulges, radial and non-radial tires on one axle, loose or missing lug nuts<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Windshield and glass<\/td><td>See the windshield rules below<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Lights and signals<\/td><td>Headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, reflectors<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Steering and suspension<\/td><td>Excess play, worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and other front end parts<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Exhaust<\/td><td>Leaks, holes, no muffler, parts held up with wire<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Air pollution controls<\/td><td>Factory emissions parts like the catalytic converter missing or disabled<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Other items<\/td><td>Horn, wipers, mirrors, front seat belts, fuel system, bumper height<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Summarized from the Missouri Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection Regulations Manual (February 1, 2025 edition) and SHP-515. Not a complete list of rejection criteria.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Checking a car yourself before you buy saves money. Use our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/vehicle-inspection-checklist\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">used car inspection checklist<\/span><\/a> or the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/free-pre-bid-inspection-checklist\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">free pre-bid inspection checklist<\/span><\/a> to spot tires, lights, and glass problems from the listing photos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-windshield\">Will a cracked windshield fail a Missouri safety inspection?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It depends on where the damage is. The manual defines the driver\u2019s vision area as the part the wipers sweep, above a line 4 inches from the bottom of the windshield. The car fails if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Long crack in view:<\/strong> any crack longer than 3 inches is in the driver\u2019s vision area.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chip in view:<\/strong> any unrepaired star break, bull\u2019s-eye, or half moon is in the driver\u2019s vision area.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Big chip elsewhere:<\/strong> a star break, bull\u2019s-eye, or half moon outside that area is more than 2 inches across.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Anything sharp:<\/strong> glass is broken, missing pieces, or exposes sharp edges anywhere.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Film on the windshield:<\/strong> aftermarket material blocks the driver\u2019s view.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A small chip that has been repaired, or a short crack outside the wiper area, usually passes. If you replace the windshield after passing, the Highway Patrol says to keep the replacement receipt in the car with your approval certificate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-fail\">What happens if your car fails?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>1. You get a rejection notice<\/strong> listing every defect. Keep it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>2. Fix it anywhere you want.<\/strong> You do not have to use the station that inspected the car, and if that station does the work, it must give you a written estimate first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>3. Go back to the same station within 20 days,<\/strong> not counting weekends and state holidays. Only the rejected items get rechecked, and that one reinspection is free.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>4. Drive only where the law allows.<\/strong> An unregistered car can go straight from your home to the station, and from the station to a repair shop and back.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-st-louis\">Safety inspection vs emissions test in St. Louis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They are two different tests. The safety inspection is statewide and run by the Highway Patrol. The emissions test is the Gateway Vehicle Inspection Program, and it only applies to cars registered in St. Louis City and St. Louis, St. Charles, and Jefferson counties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Where you live<\/th><th>Safety inspection<\/th><th>Emissions test<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>St. Louis City<\/td><td>If not exempt<\/td><td>Yes, for most cars<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>St. Louis County<\/td><td>If not exempt<\/td><td>Yes, for most cars<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>St. Charles County<\/td><td>If not exempt<\/td><td>Yes, for most cars<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Jefferson County<\/td><td>If not exempt<\/td><td>Yes, for most cars<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Rest of Missouri<\/td><td>If not exempt<\/td><td>No<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Illinois Metro East<\/td><td>No Missouri inspection if you register in Illinois<\/td><td>Follow Illinois rules<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">From the Gateway Vehicle Inspection Program and RSMo 307.350, checked October 20, 2026.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A passing emissions test is good for registration for 60 days. If the check engine light is on, the car is tested with the light on, and the program warns against rushing repairs right before the test because that can cost you a waiver. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/st-louis-emissions-testing\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">St. Louis emissions testing guide<\/span><\/a> covers exemptions and waivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-where\">Where can you get a safety inspection?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Official station list:<\/strong> the Highway Patrol keeps a searchable <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov\/HP81Web\/stationLocations.jsp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">list of official inspection stations<\/span><\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Look for the sign:<\/strong> licensed repair shops often post a large yellow sign with black letters, and new car dealers generally inspect too.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>What to bring:<\/strong> the car and the fee. The brochure says you do not need proof of ownership or a renewal notice, and the manual says a station cannot refuse you for not having the title yet.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wait time:<\/strong> stations must start the inspection within two hours of your arrival during business hours, unless other cars are ahead of you.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-auction-cars\">Buying an older car at auction? Plan for the inspection<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most cheap cars are old enough or have enough miles to need an inspection. That is fine, as long as you budget for it. Before you bid, look at the tires, glass, lights, and any warning lights in the photos and the condition report. Leave room for brakes or tires, and line up a station near you so you can inspect the week the car arrives and still title it inside 30 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shopping on a tight budget? Our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/cheap-cars-st-louis-under-3000\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">cheap cars in St. Louis under $3,000<\/span><\/a> covers what to expect. For every place the public can bid locally, start with our hub on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/car-auctions-st-louis-mo\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">car auctions in St. Louis<\/span><\/a>. Thinking about a rebuildable salvage car instead? That takes a separate Highway Patrol salvage exam, explained in our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-salvage-title-2026-rebuilt-title-steps-forms-fees\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Missouri salvage title guide<\/span><\/a> and our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/copart-iaa-st-louis-public\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Copart and IAA in St. Louis<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-remarket-space\">Buy a car you can see clearly before it ever reaches the inspection lane<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best way to pass a safety inspection is to know what is wrong with the car before you pay for it. Remarket Space is an online car marketplace open to the public. You need a free account and an ID, not a dealer license. Every listing has a full inspection by a Verified Remarket Space Inspector, a free Carfax, an HD virtual test drive, and your out-the-door total with the delivery quote, so tires, glass, and brakes are not a surprise. Delivery is nationwide, including the St. Louis area, and undisclosed engine, transmission, frame, or flood damage reported within 72 hours of delivery is covered by our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/guarantee\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">3-Day Major Mechanical Guarantee<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/auction\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">See cars up for auction now<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, read <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/how-it-works\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">how bidding works<\/span><\/a>, or check the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/buyer-premium-fees\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">buyer premium and fees<\/span><\/a>. Good places to start are <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/cars\/minnesota\/under-5000\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">cars under $5,000<\/span><\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/cars\/sedans\/minnesota\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">used sedans<\/span><\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/cars\/trucks\/minnesota\/\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">used trucks<\/span><\/a>. Those cars are currently in Minnesota and ship to Missouri with a quote, so ask how titling works before you bid to stay ahead of the 30-day clock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faq\">Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is Missouri getting rid of safety inspections?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Not in 2026. HB 1838, which would have ended most passenger car safety inspections on January 1, 2027, passed the House but stalled in the Senate after a committee vote on March 30, 2026. It never became law, so the inspection rules still apply.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-2\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Which cars are exempt from Missouri safety inspection?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Cars under 11 years old with under 150,000 miles are exempt. Historic vehicles are exempt too. Older cars, cars with 150,000 miles or more, and any car just rebuilt from a salvage title need a passing inspection.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-3\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How much is a safety inspection in Missouri?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Missouri caps the fee at $12 for cars and trucks and $10 for motorcycles and trailers. Each station sets its own price under the cap. One reinspection at the same station within 20 business days is free.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-4\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How long is a Missouri safety inspection good for?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">For titling or registering, the inspection can be no more than 60 days old. If a Missouri dealer sold you the car and it was inspected within 60 days of the sale, you can use an inspection up to 90 days old.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-5\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Will a cracked windshield fail inspection in Missouri?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, if a crack longer than 3 inches sits in the area the wipers sweep, or an unrepaired chip sits in that area. Chips over 2 inches anywhere else, or any broken glass with sharp edges, also fail the car.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-6\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Do I need a safety inspection to renew my tags in Missouri?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Only if your car is not exempt. Non-exempt cars are inspected every two years, with even model years in even calendar years and odd model years in odd years. The inspection must be within 60 days of renewal.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-7\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Do I need both a safety inspection and an emissions test in St. Louis?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Often, yes. The safety inspection applies statewide to non-exempt cars. The emissions test applies to cars registered in St. Louis City and St. Louis, St. Charles, and Jefferson counties, and costs up to $24.<\/p> <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-sources\">Sources<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/revisor.mo.gov\/main\/OneSection.aspx?section=307.350\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Missouri Revised Statutes 307.350: Inspection requirements and exemptions<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/revisor.mo.gov\/main\/OneSection.aspx?section=307.365\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Missouri Revised Statutes 307.365: Inspection fees<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/house.mo.gov\/bill.aspx?bill=HB1838&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Missouri House of Representatives: HB 1838 (2026) bill status<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/dor.mo.gov\/motor-vehicle\/titling-registration\/buying-vehicle.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Missouri Department of Revenue: Buying a vehicle<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mshp.dps.mo.gov\/MSHPWeb\/PatrolDivisions\/MVI\/FAQs\/faqs.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Missouri State Highway Patrol: Motor vehicle inspection FAQs<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/apps.mshp.dps.mo.gov\/MSHPWeb\/Publications\/Brochures\/documents\/SHP-515.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Missouri State Highway Patrol: Motor vehicle inspection brochure (SHP-515)<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/apps.mshp.dps.mo.gov\/MSHPWeb\/PatrolDivisions\/DVSD\/MVI\/documents\/MVIRegulationsManual.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Missouri State Highway Patrol: Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection Regulations Manual<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov\/HP81Web\/stationLocations.jsp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Missouri State Highway Patrol: Official inspection station locations<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/gatewayvip.mo.gov\/need-to-know\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-secondary-color\">Gateway Vehicle Inspection Program: What to know before the test<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size wp-block-paragraph\"><em>This guide is general information, not legal advice. Inspection laws can change each legislative session, so confirm with the Missouri Department of Revenue or the Highway Patrol before you title a car.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Missouri still requires safety inspections in 2026. Who is exempt, the $12 fee cap, what fails a car, windshield crack rules, and how the inspection fits a St. Louis title transfer.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":356,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"content-type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[19],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-20870","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-buying-guides"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v22.3 (Yoast SEO v28.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Missouri Safety Inspection 2026: Rules, $12 Cost, Checklist<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Missouri still requires safety inspections in 2026. 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Exemptions, the $12 fee cap, windshield crack rules, and what to do if your car fails.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Remarket Space\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/RemarketSpace\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-10-20T11:06:15+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-10-21T11:07:53+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/hand-young-man-mechanic-holding-clipboard-checklist-car-service-center-repair_36356-158.webp\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"740\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"494\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/webp\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Matt Osborn\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:title\" content=\"Missouri Safety Inspection 2026: Who Needs One and What It Costs\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:description\" content=\"Inspections did not go away in 2026. 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HB 1838, which would have ended most passenger car safety inspections on January 1, 2027, passed the House but stalled in the Senate after a committee vote on March 30, 2026. It never became law, so the inspection rules still apply.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/#faq-question-2","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/#faq-question-2","name":"Which cars are exempt from Missouri safety inspection?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Cars under 11 years old with under 150,000 miles are exempt. Historic vehicles are exempt too. Older cars, cars with 150,000 miles or more, and any car just rebuilt from a salvage title need a passing inspection.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/#faq-question-3","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/#faq-question-3","name":"How much is a safety inspection in Missouri?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Missouri caps the fee at $12 for cars and trucks and $10 for motorcycles and trailers. Each station sets its own price under the cap. One reinspection at the same station within 20 business days is free.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/#faq-question-4","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/#faq-question-4","name":"How long is a Missouri safety inspection good for?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"For titling or registering, the inspection can be no more than 60 days old. If a Missouri dealer sold you the car and it was inspected within 60 days of the sale, you can use an inspection up to 90 days old.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/#faq-question-5","position":5,"url":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/#faq-question-5","name":"Will a cracked windshield fail inspection in Missouri?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, if a crack longer than 3 inches sits in the area the wipers sweep, or an unrepaired chip sits in that area. Chips over 2 inches anywhere else, or any broken glass with sharp edges, also fail the car.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/#faq-question-6","position":6,"url":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/#faq-question-6","name":"Do I need a safety inspection to renew my tags in Missouri?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Only if your car is not exempt. Non-exempt cars are inspected every two years, with even model years in even calendar years and odd model years in odd years. The inspection must be within 60 days of renewal.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/#faq-question-7","position":7,"url":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/missouri-safety-inspection\/#faq-question-7","name":"Do I need both a safety inspection and an emissions test in St. Louis?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Often, yes. The safety inspection applies statewide to non-exempt cars. The emissions test applies to cars registered in St. Louis City and St. Louis, St. Charles, and Jefferson counties, and costs up to $24.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/hand-young-man-mechanic-holding-clipboard-checklist-car-service-center-repair_36356-158.webp","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20870","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=20870"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20870\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":20916,"href":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20870\/revisions\/20916"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/356"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=20870"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=20870"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.remarketspace.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=20870"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}