Missouri requires a safety inspection every two years for vehicles 10 model years old or older OR with 150,000+ miles. In the St. Louis area (St. Louis City, St. Louis, St. Charles, Franklin, and Jefferson counties), an emissions inspection is also required every two years.
Rules change. Verify the current Missouri requirements with the state DMV or environmental agency before you go. This guide reflects the program as of 2026.
| Item | What the Inspector Checks |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Pads, lines, parking brake. Minimum 1/16 lining. |
| Steering and suspension | Tie rods, ball joints, no excessive play. |
| Tires | Minimum 2/32 tread, no exposed cord. |
| Lights and signals | All required lighting working. |
| Horn, wipers, windshield | All functional. No cracks in driver sweep. |
| Exhaust | No leaks, all required emissions equipment. |
| OBD-II (STL area) | MIL, codes, readiness monitors. |
| Mirror check | Driver-side mirror plus interior or passenger-side. |
Worn brake components is one of the top reasons cars fail in this state.
Get a Full Diagnosis →Burned-out bulbs is one of the top reasons cars fail in this state.
Get a Full Diagnosis →Tire tread issues is one of the top reasons cars fail in this state.
Get a Full Diagnosis →Check engine light (STL) is one of the top reasons cars fail in this state.
Get a Full Diagnosis →Cracked windshield is one of the top reasons cars fail in this state.
Get a Full Diagnosis →Exhaust leak is one of the top reasons cars fail in this state.
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Only for vehicles 10 model years or older OR with 150,000+ miles - every two years. Newer, lower-mileage cars are exempt.
The St. Louis area: St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles County, Franklin County, and Jefferson County. Required every two years.
Safety inspection: $12. Emissions inspection (St. Louis area): $24. Combined cost in STL: about $36.
You have 20 days to repair and return for re-inspection at the same station for free. After 20 days, you pay again.
Yes. Vehicles registered as historic (25+ years old, antique plates) are exempt from inspection.
You must have a valid inspection certificate before registration renewal. Operating with expired registration is ticketable.