About Us and FAQ
Established in 1990, Quality NC State Inspection Centers have served the Cary, RDU area community for 19 years. Our primary business is NC state auto emission inspections. We offer no pressure, no appointment needed, fast courteous inspection services.
Please stop by one of our conveniently located inspection stations, and experience our superior service.
The Latest FAQ's
How long will it take to get my vehicles state emission inspection ?
What if my vehicle does not pass ?
Where are NC Inspections required ?
Does my vehicle need an emission inspection ?
How much does a inspection cost ?
How long will it take to get my vehicles state emission inspection ?
We have multiple inspection lanes and licence inspectors at all inspection center locations. Our inspection centers all have climate controlled lounge areas for our customers to stay their short inspection time. When you pull up to the inspection lane, one of our inspectors will quickly greet you.
What if my vehicle does not pass ?
If a vehicle fails the safety inspection, it cannot be operated beyond the expiration date of the current sticker. However, the owner has 60 days to correct any safety defects and qualify for a re-inspection at no additional cost, provided the owner presents a receipt of the initial inspection.
Where are NC Inspections required ?
Emissions inspections are required in 48 counties: Alamance, Brunswick, Buncombe, Burke, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Carteret, Catawba, Chatham, Cleveland, Craven, Cumberland, Davidson, Durham, Edgecombe, Forsyth, Franklin, Gaston, Granville, Guilford, Harnett, Haywood, Henderson, Iredell, Johnston, Lee, Lenoir, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Moore, Nash, New Hanover, Onslow, Orange, Pitt, Randolph, Robeson, Rockingham, Rowan, Rutherford, Stanly, Stokes, Surry, Union, Wake, Wayne, Wilkes, or Wilson.
Does my vehicle need an emission inspection ?
If you own a 1996 and newer vehicle registered in one of the above counties, an annual OBD "emissions" inspection along with a safety/tamper inspection is required. In these counties, an annual emissions inspection is required for gasoline-powered-light-duty vehicles (less than 8,501 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)). The GVWR rating can be found on the driver's side door. An annual safety inspection only is required if you own a vehicle 1995 and older, diesel powered, powered by alternative fuels without gasoline, or a heavy-duty vehicle (greater than 8501 lbs. gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)). The safety inspection also includes a visual check for tampering of emissions components. Things to remember: A vehicle's model year is the year your vehicle was built as designated by the vehicle manufacturer. Motorcycles, recreational vehicles (RVs) and motor homes do not require emissions inspections for registration.
How much does a inspection cost ?
The maximum annual fee for the motor vehicle emissions inspection and safety inspection is $30, however inspection stations can charge less. Window Tinting: Vehicles with after-factory window tinting must pass the 35 percent visible light requirement during an annual vehicle safety inspection. In addition to the annual safety inspection fee, there is a $10 charge for any vehicle that has an after-factory tint. If you have any questions about window tinting, contact your nearest DMV Enforcement Office, or call (919) 861-3185.