Is Inspection Required for Registration in Connecticut?
Connecticut requires safety inspections only for specific vehicle categories prior to registration. According to the Connecticut General Assembly Office of Legislative Research, there are no requirements for periodic safety inspections for all vehicles. Safety inspections apply to vehicles at least 10 years old changing ownership, out-of-state vehicles registering in Connecticut for the first time, rebuilt total loss vehicles, and certain specialty vehicles.
Emissions Inspection Requirements in Connecticut
Connecticut operates a mandatory emissions testing program for most vehicles. Vehicles model year 1981 and newer require biennial emissions testing, while 1980 and older models need annual testing. Vehicles exempt from emissions testing include electric vehicles, motorcycles, and vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating above 10,000 pounds. All emissions testing is conducted through state-contracted inspection stations.
Connecticut Vehicle Registration Requirements by County and Origin
| Vehicle Origin | Registration Type | VIN Inspection | Safety Inspection | Emissions Testing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Out-of-state | Initial | Required | Required* | Required** |
| Out-of-state | Renewal | Not required | Not required | Required** |
| In-state | Initial | Not required | Not required | Required** |
| In-state | Renewal | Not required | Not required | Required** |
*Safety inspection required for out-of-state vehicles registering in Connecticut for the first time, and for in-state vehicles 10 years or older changing ownership.
**Exemptions apply based on vehicle type, model year, and weight as detailed above.
Contact Information
Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles
60 State Street
Wethersfield, CT 06161
Phone: 860-263-5700 (Hartford area/out-of-state)
Phone: 800-842-8222 (Elsewhere in Connecticut)
Official Website: Connecticut DMV
Vehicle Registration Services
Register Out-of-State Vehicle
Vehicle Registration and Title
