In states where vehicle safety inspections are required, the vehicle does not need to be inspected in the county where the owner lives. Vehicle inspection laws apply throughout the state; therefore, as long as the vehicle is inspected in the state, the inspection is valid.
As of 2014, vehicle safety inspections are required on either an annual or biennial basis in 17 states. In Maryland and Alabama, a safety inspection is required upon the sale of the vehicle. In states where safety inspections are not required, law enforcement has the right to stop a vehicle and perform a safety inspection to ensure the vehicle is road worthy.
