We’ve been a family-run shop for over 80 years, making us Maryland’s oldest still running family owned auto repair shop. That legacy shows in every inspection we perform done right, with care, and tested for perfect results.
Maryland Vehicle Safety Inspection
Hollenshade’s Auto Service is an authorized inspection station for class ‘A’ vehicles being registered in the state of Maryland. We offer vehicle safety inspections on weekdays by appointment only. If you are looking for more information about Maryland state vehicle inspections, please check out the links below.
Obtaining an Inspection Certificate in Maryland
The Maryland Vehicle Safety Inspection is overseen by the Automotive Safety Enforcement Division (ASED) of the Maryland State Police. The goal is to ensure that all vehicles meet safety standards before being registered in the state. Maryland has over 1,600 authorized inspection stations, including Hollenshade’s.
To pass inspection, you must take your vehicle to an authorized safety inspection station (1,600 across the state). Click here to find a local inspection station.
When to Have Your Vehicle Inspected
In Maryland, you need to have your vehicle inspected if:
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- You have recently moved to the state and your car is registered elsewhere
- You have purchased/received a used vehicle
You have 60 days after moving to Maryland to register your vehicle, and your car needs to pass inspection before it can be registered.
Fees
Initial fees vary according to your station’s labor rates. Fees must be displayed prominently at each station. Re-inspection fees also vary according to labor rates.
Re-inspection fees should not be charged if the repair can be visually confirmed (ex. a headlight that needs to be changed). Re-inspection fees for non-visual defects may be as high as 1 ½ the hourly labor rate. Ask about re-inspection fees before leaving the station.
Still don’t see the answer to your question? Contact us with this form HERE and one of our team members will help.
What Does the Maryland Safety Inspection Include?
Inspections typically take one to two hours, depending on your vehicle’s condition. Our inspection covers the following areas:
Test Drive Items
- Brake performance
- Alignment and steering response
- Suspension and handling
- Speedometer and odometer function
- Turn signal operation and self-cancel function
Under Hood Inspection Items
- Hood latches and hinges
- Power brake system
- Electrical and fuel systems
- Emissions system
- Exhaust system
- Engine mounts
Exterior Inspection Items
- Headlights, taillights, and general lighting
- Mirrors
- Doors, latches, and handles
- Windshield wipers
- Bumpers, fenders, and splash guards
- Fuel tank cap
- Window glass condition
- Shock/strut rebound
- Tailpipe exit location
Interior Inspection Items
- Driver’s seat and seat belts
- Dashboard and warning lights
- Rear-view mirror and driver window operation
- Brake and parking brake performance
- Steering wheel and column function
- Gear indicators and safety switches
- Wiper and light switch function
- Horn operation
Under Vehicle Inspection Items
- Ball joints and kingpins
- Wheel bearings and tires
- Suspension components
- Brake hydraulics and mechanical parts
- Steering system components
- Exhaust system
- Engine mounts
- Driveshafts, CV joints, and universal joints
Inspection Results and Certificate
If your vehicle passes, you will receive a Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate, valid for 90 days. Results are submitted directly to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA).
If your vehicle fails, you will receive a written report detailing the issues that must be corrected. You may have the repairs done at any licensed facility and return for a re-inspection.
Inspection Fees and Re-Inspection Policy
Inspection fees vary depending on labor rates and must be clearly posted at each station. Re-inspection fees are only charged for items that cannot be visually confirmed as repaired.
- No fee should be charged for simple visual checks (such as replacing a bulb)
- For non-visual defects, re-inspection fees can be up to 1.5 times the station’s hourly labor rate
Ask for a breakdown of inspection and re-inspection fees before your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most inspections take between one and two hours depending on the vehicle’s condition and age.
No. You are not required to complete repairs at the inspection station. You can take your vehicle to any qualified repair shop and return for a re-inspection.
Yes, unless the vehicle is being transferred between immediate family members or meets specific exemptions set by the MVA.
You’ll receive a report listing the defects. You can have those repaired and return for a re-inspection. Only the failed items will be reviewed during the re-check.
Inspection certificates are valid for 90 days. If your vehicle is not registered within that time, another inspection may be required.
Schedule a Maryland Safety Inspection
Inspections at Hollenshade’s are available by appointment Monday through Friday. If you’re registering a vehicle or transferring your title into Maryland, schedule your inspection today.
Easy appointment scheduling!
Call / text or schedule on-line to meet our team. Same day appointments can sometimes be accommodated.
(410) 828-5750 OR GET APPOINTMENT