If a vehicle fails the initial or renewal inspection, a "failed inspection" sticker having 20-days duration will be placed on the vehicle. You will also be provided with a report listing the items that failed inspection. Any questions or problems should be directed to a resolution coordinator at the inspection station.


DC residents are required to have the vehicle reinspected within 20-days of the failure and may receive two such re-inspections at the DMV inspection station for no additional charge during that timeframe. The reinspection will only check failed items. For a third reinspection, or reinspection after the 20-day period, an inspection fee will be charged and a complete inspection will be performed.


You may notice that your report lists certain items that are identified as "Pass With Warning". These are items that require repair, but do not require reinspection. You will not be able to pass your next regularly scheduled inspection if these items fail again.

Your vehicle must pass inspection before it can be registered.

Note: Click here for a brochure on vehicle inspection failure.