Depending on the state, a vehicle owner may have to undergo safety and emissions inspections before he can title or register his car. A vehicle safety inspector works for the state to check vehicles for registration, as well as inspect vehicles involved in fatal accidents and operate safety inspection stations. The vehicle safety inspector must earn a certification or license in his state to practice. Each state sets its own requirements for becoming a certified or licensed vehicle safety inspector, but all generally have similar qualifications.
Gain Practical Experience
A vehicle safety inspector should have a minimum number of years of experience as an automotive mechanic or have graduated from a vocational school with an automotive mechanics certificate. Some states, like Louisiana, require a training course in lieu of professional experience. Vocational schools, community colleges and state police organizations typically offer these types of training courses. These courses cover the inspection process, testing different parts of the vehicle and using inspection tools.
Go Through the Application Process
Each state requires the inspector to submit an application for licensure or certification that includes basic biographical and employment information, as well as documentation of education, experience or training courses. Some states require the inspector to fill out a permit application for each inspector station where he will work. Most states also charge an application fee. Sometimes, the inspector can choose between different types of vehicle safety licenses. Missouri, for example, offers a permit for just motorcycles and one for all motor vehicles.
Pass an Exam
Each state has its own manual of regulations covering vehicle inspections that an inspector must read and review before taking a certification test. In some states, the licensing exam includes two portions. The first part is a written test covering the vehicle inspections manual, and the second part is a practical exam where the inspector proves his knowledge and skills in vehicle inspections. Test-takers can find test prep materials, resources and practice tests through the various state vehicle inspection websites.
Meet Other Requirements
Additionally, a vehicle safety inspector must be 17 or 18 years old, depending on the state. He should be able to read, write and understand English in order to fill out inspection reports and certificates. Once the inspector earns the license, he may have to maintain it by reapplying every one to three years. Other requirements include no felonies on record in the past five years and a valid driver’s license.
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