Tom Dickerson
Tom Dickerson is a trial attorney and co-founder of Dickerson Oxton, where he focuses on personal injury, wrongful death, medical malpractice, and catastrophic injury litigation. Since launching the firm with Chelsea Oxton Dickerson in 2010, Tom has helped recover millions of dollars for injured clients through aggressive advocacy and courtroom experience. Known for his client-first approach, he is dedicated to standing up for individuals and families against insurance companies and large corporations.
Who Has to Do Safety Inspections?
Every vehicle owner in Missouri must complete a Missouri vehicle safety inspection to register or renew registration. If you’re new to the state, you have 30 days to register your vehicle, and you can’t register without passing the safety inspection first.
If you live in St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles County, Franklin County, or Jefferson County, you must also get an emission inspection before registration.
Your vehicle registration renewal notice will tell you if you need a Missouri vehicle safety inspection before renewing. When required, you can get the inspection up to 60 days before your renewal date, but not earlier.
You also need a safety inspection when:
- Selling a vehicle, if your current certificate is more than 60 days old
- After certain accidents
- When ordered by law enforcement
Vehicles exempt from Missouri safety inspections include:
- Vehicles newer than five years old
- Vehicles weighing over 26,000 pounds
- Trailers
- Vehicles with historic plates
- Vehicles sold for salvage or junk
- Low-speed vehicles
The model year of your vehicle determines your inspection schedule. Even model year vehicles need inspections in even calendar years. Odd model year vehicles need inspections in odd calendar years.
What Do Inspections Cover?
The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) regulates the state’s vehicle safety inspection program. During your inspection, certified technicians check major vehicle components to verify they meet Missouri safety standards.
A Missouri vehicle safety inspection examines:
- Brake system
- Exhaust system
- Fuel system
- Tires
- Steering mechanisms
- Lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals
- Windshield and windows
- Seat belts
- Bumpers
- Airbags
If your vehicle fails any part of the inspection, you must complete repairs before you can legally drive on Missouri roads. State law allows you to drive directly to and from a repair shop, but nowhere else until you pass your safety inspection.
You can have repairs done at any licensed mechanic. If you need extensive repairs and want to request an inspection waiver, choose a Missouri Recognized Repair Technician.
Where to Get Your Missouri Vehicle Safety Inspection
Missouri licenses thousands of inspection stations across the state. You can find a certified inspection station near you through the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s online station locator, or by searching “Missouri vehicle safety inspection” with your city name.
Most auto repair shops, dealerships, and service centers offer safety inspections. Look for facilities displaying the official Missouri Vehicle Inspection (MVI) certification.
When you pass your inspection, the station will issue a certificate and affix an inspection sticker to your vehicle’s windshield. Keep your inspection certificate with your vehicle registration documents.
Why Do Safety Inspections Matter?
Missouri vehicle safety inspections protect everyone on the road. State-mandated inspections help identify vehicles with dangerous mechanical problems before those defects cause accidents.
Driving a vehicle that hasn’t passed its required safety inspection violates Missouri law. Beyond legal compliance, regular inspections catch problems like worn brakes, faulty steering, or tire issues that put you and other drivers at risk.
If a vehicle defect contributes to an accident, the at-fault driver may face additional liability for neglecting required maintenance and inspections.