Nevada Car Inspection Laws

January 30, 2023 Car Accidents

If you own a car in Nevada, it is important to understand and follow the state’s car inspection laws. Regular car inspections are necessary to stay safe on the road and protect everyone around you.

Whether you are planning to move to Nevada, purchase a new vehicle, or buy an out-of-state car, you will need to obtain an inspection from a qualified provider. Here is what you need to know about Nevada’s car inspection laws.

What Are the Requirements for Car Inspections in Nevada?

Any vehicle that is registered in the state of Nevada must meet the state’s car inspection requirements. In fact, you cannot register a car in Nevada without obtaining the necessary inspection. These tests ensure that the vehicle meets the state’s smog standards.

Generally, vehicles that meet the following requirements must undergo an emissions test in Nevada: 

• Vehicles owned in the urban areas of Clark County or Washoe County
• Vehicles that are gas powered
• Vehicles that were manufactured in 1968 or later
• Vehicles that are diesel-powered with a manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating of up to 14,000 pounds
• Vehicles that are new but approaching their fourth registration
• Hybrid vehicles that are five model years or older

If your vehicle does not meet any of the above criteria, you do not need to obtain a car inspection in Nevada. Because the state requires annual registration renewals, you usually need to submit your vehicle for inspection at least once per year. Once you receive the emissions results, they are valid for 90 days, so it is important to register your vehicle as soon as possible following the inspection.

What Happens If You Purchase a Car from a Nevada Dealer?

If you want to buy a new car in Nevada, you need to have the appropriate documents to register the vehicle in the state. When you go to a Nevada dealership, the dealer should provide you with an Evidence of Insurance Card, a Dealer Report of Sale, and a Nevada Vehicle Inspection Report. The dealer should also give you a vehicle registration application as well as a temporary registration tag; you will need to register the vehicle before this temporary tag expires.

What Happens If You Purchase an Out-of-State Vehicle?

All vehicles registered in Nevada must meet smog standards, even if they were purchased from another state. If you do buy an out-of-state vehicle, you will need to register the car in Nevada if your primary residence is in the state. You will need to submit the vehicle for emissions testing, and your dealer will need to provide you with the following:

• The proof of sale
• A VIN inspection report
• The manufacturer’s certificate of origin
• An odometer statement to have the vehicle inspected

Injured in a Car Accident? Speak to an Attorney

While Nevada has car inspection laws in place, not all drivers follow the rules. If you are injured by a negligent driver in Nevada, you need a Las Vegas personal injury attorney on your side who can help you seek justice. You have the right to pursue an insurance claim or lawsuit against the at-fault driver and recover financial compensation to pay for your losses.

As soon as possible following your accident, contact a Nevada car accident lawyer right away. Your attorney will evaluate your case and help you take your first steps toward recovering the settlement that you deserve.