Maryland State Police
Automotive Safety Enforcement Division
6601 Ritchie Highway, Glen Burnie, MD 21062 410-768-7388 Fax: 410-761-2791
INITIAL
APPLICATION
FOR
MARYLAND STATE
AUTHORIZED
INSPECTION STATION
LICENSE
Maryland State Police
Automotive Safety Enforcement Division
6601 Ritchie Highway, Glen Burnie, MD 21062 410-768-7388 Fax: 410-761-2791
REGISTERED INSPECTION MECHANIC’S WRITTEN EXAMINATION
The written examination to become a State Registered Inspection Mechanic is administered on the
third Friday of every month at 9:00 a.m. The current locations for the examination are:
1) Ferndale Volunteer Fire Station (Glen Burnie area)
2) Joppa/Magnolia Volunteer Fire Station #1 (Belair area: MD152 @ I-95)
Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) Branch Offices:
3) Easton MVA;
4) Beltsville MVA;
5) Hagerstown MVA;
4) Largo MVA.
There is a $15.00 fee for taking the written examination, which must be paid at the time of the
examination. Money Orders or business checks are to be payable to the “Maryland State Police”.
Personal checks and cash will not be accepted. A valid driver’s license must be presented at the
time of the examination for proof of identity.
The written examination will consist of questions from the Code of Maryland Regulations
(COMAR), Title 11, Subtitle 14, Motor Vehicle Administration – Vehicle Inspections. These
regulations are maintained at every licensed inspection facility. An additional copy of this title of
COMAR may be purchased from the Division of State Documents, by calling, writing, or ordering on-
line at:
Office of Secretary of State
Division of State Documents
State House
Annapolis, Maryland 21401
Phone: 410-974-2486 or 800-633-9657
Website: www.dsd.state.md.us
Any questions regarding these examination procedures at any of the above locations should be
directed to the Automotive Safety Enforcement Division, Glen Burnie Office at 410-768-7388.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey R. Gahler, Captain
Commander – A.S.E.D.
Maryland State Police
Rev: 06-08
TOLL FREE: 1-800-525-5555
AUTOMOTIVE SAFETY ENFORCEMENT DIVISION
6601 Ritchie Highway
Glen Burnie, Maryland 21062
(410) 768-7388
FAX# (410) 760-5466
June 18, 2008
SPECIAL ORDER NO. 23-0804
TO: All Authorized Inspection Station Licensees and Applicants
All Automotive Safety Enforcement Division Personnel
SUBJECT: Initial / Renewal Application Procedures and Fees for Inspection Stations
The following procedures and fees apply to the preparation and submission of initial and
renewal applications by Authorized Inspection Station Licensees and applicants:
1. INITIAL APPLICATION:
Those business owners’ wishing to license their business as an authorized inspection station to
conduct vehicle safety inspections for the State of Maryland, will complete an initial application in
strict accordance with the instructions included. Once submitted, the Division will conduct a
background investigation to determine if the business and personnel meet the Code of Maryland
Regulations (COMAR) defined under Title 11, Subtitle 14, Chapter .01. Approved applicants will
be issued an Inspection Station License and be permitted to conduct safety inspections in the Vehicle
Safety Inspection Program.
a. All required documentation must be included with the initial application before it will be
accepted, i.e. copy of Business License, Fire Safety Inspection Report, etc.
b. The initial application fee for an inspection station license is $100.00, which is non-
refundable. This fee is to be forwarded in the form of a certified check, money order, or a
business check made payable to the Maryland State Police (No personal checks or cash,
and submitted along with a completed initial application.
c. Initial applications approved prior to April 1
st
will expire on June 30
th
of that same year, and
will require the licensee to submit a renewal application and fee by June 30
th
. Initial applications
approved April 1
st
or later will not expire until June 30
th
of the following year.
2. RENEWAL APPLICATION:
All current authorized inspection station licensees who wish to remain active in the Vehicle Safety
Inspection Program must submit an annual renewal fee with a renewal application. The annual
renewal fee for stations currently in the Inspection Program is $50.00. The renewal fee is due
prior to July 1
st
of each year and must be submitted with a completed renewal application. This
fee is to be forwarded in the form of a certified check, money order, or business check made
payable to Maryland State Police,(no personal checks or cash).
SUBJECT: Initial / Renewal Application Procedures and Fees for Inspection Stations
a. Renewal applications will be accepted each year between April 1
st
and June 30
th
. All renewal
applications MUST be postmarked or received at the ASED Headquarters office by June 30
th
.
Any application that is not postmarked or delivered by June 30
th
will not be accepted, and will
require the inspection facility to submit an initial application and a fee of $100.00.
b. It is the responsibility of the inspection station licensee to obtain a renewal application and submit
it prior to the expiration date.
c. When the renewal requirements have been satisfied, a Validation Sticker will be delivered to the
licensee, which will be affixed to the Authorized Inspection Station License.
3. The initial and renewal applications are available for download on the Maryland State Police website
at http://www.mdsp.org/ased/ or the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration website at
http://mva.state.md.us/OnlineServices/Docs/default.htm. If unable to download the renewal
application, station personnel are to contact the station’s assigned ASED Trooper or Vehicle Safety
Inspector. If unable to download the initial application, please call the ASED Headquarters at 410-
768-7388 and request a mailing of the application.
4. All initial and renewal applications must be submitted containing original signatures; no facsimile or
photocopies accepted.
This Special Order supersedes Special Order No. 23-0701 dated January 19, 2007.
Jeffrey R. Gahler, Captain
Commander – A.S.E.D.
Department of State Police
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING INSPECTION STATION LICENSE
INITIAL APPLICATION
PLEASE READ FIRST BEFORE COMPLETING AND SUBMITTING APPLICATION:
Licensing Requirements for Facilities:
Before the issuance of an authorized inspection station license, the following MUST be adhered to:
A. An application for an authorized inspection station license shall be submitted in complete and legible form
and signed in ink as follows:
(1) Private business - shall be signed by owner.
(2) Partnership - shall be signed by all partners.
(3) Corporation - shall be signed by corporate officer(s) or person with written power of
Attorney, which shall either accompany the application or be on file with the Division.
B. Applications will NOT be accepted from any applicant who has been in business at that location for less then 6
months except:
(1) Previously licensed facilities which have changed location.
(2) Additional locations of existing or established businesses which have one or more
branches licensed as authorized inspection stations.
(3) A dealer licensed by the Administration.
(4) When adequate documentation of previous business operational experience is presented. (Examples of adequate
documentation include copies of tax returns, reference letters, business licenses, etc. Experience as a registered
inspection mechanic, controller, or supervisor is not adequate to fulfill this requirement)
BEFORE MAILING APPLICATION, PLEASE ENSURE IT IS THOROUGHLY COMPLETED as per the
following directions, with ALL required attachments. Failure to complete and/or submit required documentation will
result in application and fee being returned. Any false or inaccurate information may result in the application being
refused. PLEASE TYPE OR PRINT ALL REQUESTED INFORMATION LEGIBLY IN INK:
1. SECTION #1: Indicate Type of Application, Station Number (if applicable), and ENCLOSE a Money Order, Certified Check, or
Business Check, (NO CASH OR PERSONAL CHECK) for the applicable fee; PAYABLE TO THE MARYLAND STATE
POLICE. This fee is non- refundable.
2. SECTION #2: Complete Business name, Address, City, County, State, Zip Code, Telephone Number, and Type of Business.
A) If a Corporation, SUBMIT copy of Certificate of Incorporation, and/or similar documentation which establishes Corporation and
identifies Corporate Officers.
B) If a Partnership, SUBMIT copy of Certificate of Partnership, and/or similar documentation which establishes Partnership and
identifies Partners.
C) If an Individual, No additional documentation is needed for this section.
3. SECTION #3: Indicate Hourly Labor Rate and Proposed Inspection Fee.
4. SECTION #4: Complete Worker's Compensation Insurance information, if applicable.
5. SECTION #5: Indicate Class of License for which application is being made.
6. SECTION #6: Submit a copy of Business/Traders License, and/or any other type of Government issued Business License associated
with the Business, with application.
7. SECTION #7: Indicate Owner(s) Full Name (NO INITIALS), Residence Address, Race, Sex, Date of Birth, Owner(s) Title
(President, Vice-President, etc.), and Drivers License Number. Complete SECTION #8 & SECTION #9, if applicable.
8. SECTION #10: Indicate assigned SUPERVISOR OF INSPECTION=S, Full Name, Residence Address, Race, Sex, Date of Birth
and Drivers License Number.
9. SECTION #11: Indicate assigned CONTROLLER OF CERTIFICATE=S, Full Name, Residence Address, Race, Sex, Date of Birth
and Drivers License Number.
10. SIGNATURE SECTION: Sign application (ALL OWNERS) and date. Original Signatures must be on the submitted application.
11. ZONING APPROVAL FORM: Complete and return zoning form with application. (SECTION A - COMPLETED BY
APPLICANT; SECTION B - COMPLETED BY ZONING OFFICIAL.)
12. FIRE INSPECTION REPORT: Obtain and SUBMIT a Fire Safety Inspection Report from Local/State Fire Department.
(A COPY OF THE FIRE SAFETY INSPECTION MUST BE RETURNED WITH APPLICATION.)
Maryland State Police
Automotive Safety Enforcement Division
6601 Ritchie Highway, Glen Burnie, MD 21062 410-768-7388 Fax: 410-761-2791
APPLICATION FOR AUTHORIZED INSPECTION STATION LICENSE
1. INITIAL APPLICATION
-
($100.00 non-refundable fee
)
REAPPLICATION – (
$100.00 Non-Refundable fee)
CHANGE - No Fee Required for below actions:
Check applicable block Check applicable block
Additional Facility
($100.00 Non-Refundable fee
) Change of Name
Change of Ownership
($100.00 Non-Refundable fee
) Add Classification
Change of Location
($100.00 Non-Refundable fee
) Add/Delete Additional Owner
INSPECTION STATION NUMBER:
(If Already Licensed)
2.
3. FLAT HOURLY LABOR RATE FEE: $ PROPOSED INSPECTION FEE: $
4. DOES YOUR BUSINESS EMPLOY ONE OR MORE PERSONS? YES ; NO
IF YES, You MUST complete the following workers’ compensation insurance information:
Insurance Co: Effective Date:
Policy/Binder#: Expiration Date:
5. CLASS OR CLASSES OF LICENSE APPLIED FOR:
A - Passenger vehicles, trucks 10,000 pounds and under GVWR, Trailers (not equipped with air brakes)
up to 20 feet in length, multipurpose passenger vehicles, (except 3-wheeled multipurpose vehicles) and low
speed vehicles(LSV);
B - Any trailer, including those equipped with air brakes
C - Trucks, truck tractors, buses over 10,000 pounds GVWR;
D - Combination of classes "B" and "C";
F - Fleet (must own, operate or control at least 15 vehicles);
M - Motorcycles and 3-wheeled multipurpose vehicles, trailers up to 20 feet in length (not equipped with air
brakes).
R - Recreational motor homes and converted buses;
T - Any trailer up to 10,000 pounds;
G - Combination of Classes "R" and "T".
MSP 23-1 (01-07) Page 1 of 2
Business Name:
Trading Name:
Address:
(Line 1)
Street:
(Line 2)
City:
County:
Zip:
Street:
Mailing Address:
Same As Above
City:
County:
Zip:
Business Phone No:
(
Include Area Code)
Email
Address:
Type of Business:
(Check One Only)
Private Partnership Corporation
Date Business Became “Operational” under Current Ownership:
(Only applicable if INITIAL APPLICATION is checked in #1a)
6. BUSINESS LICENSE –
Submit a copy of the Business Traders License, or any other type of government agency issued
business license, which indicates Business Name, Business Owner(s), License Number, and Expiration Date.
7. OWNERS:
List Business Owners (If Corporation, list all Corporate Officers). Please include residence address.
8. REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE - (IF APPLICABLE) -
Representative of owner(s) when business is operated by
others; i.e. District Manager, Regional Vice-President, etc. (Attach power of attorney)
9. OPERATOR: -
Person(s) who operates the business; i.e. manager, etc. If operator is the same as owner enter "SAME".
10. SUPERVISOR OF INSPECTIONS -
Person authorized to supervise inspections.
11. CONTROLLER OF CERTIFICATES -
Person to control and receive certificates from the Maryland State Police.
AGREEMENT:
Pursuant to Title 23, Transportation Article, Sections 23-101 to 23-109, of the annotated Code of Maryland, and the
Code of Maryland Regulations, Title 11, Subtitle 14, Chapter 01, Section .09, the undersigned agrees to conduct the business for which
this application is made strictly in accordance therewith, requiring that all vehicles are carefully inspected, and they fully meet all safety
requirements before certification. If this application is approved, it is understood that the privilege to operate as an Authorized Inspection
Station is contingent entirely upon satisfactory performance and such license may be cancelled, suspended or revoked by the approving
authority for just cause. If there is any change in business address, name or ownership, notice of such change is required and a new
application must be submitted. When an authorization is cancelled, suspended ore revoked, or when a business is dissolved, the officially
issued license, certificates and other materials will be immediately returned to the issuing authority. I certify by my/our signature(s)
below that the information contained on this application is true to the best of my\our knowledge, and understand that incorrect or
incomplete information will be cause for rejection of application.
SIGNATURES OF ALL LISTED OWNERS (Signature, Title, & Date):
/S/______________________________________ /S/ _______________________________________
/S/__________________________________ ___ /S/
________________________________________
/S/ DATE: _________________ ____
Page 2 of 2
Name (Last, First, Middle) Residence Address
Race
Sex Date of Birth Drivers Lic. # & (State)
Name (Last, First, Middle) Residence Address Race Sex Date of Birth Drivers Lic. # & (State)
Name (Last, First, Middle) Residence Address Race Sex Date of Birth Drivers Lic. # & (State)
Name (Last, First, Middle) Residence Address Race Sex Date of Birth Drivers Lic. # & (State)
Name (Last, First, Middle) Residence Address Race Sex Date of Birth Drivers Lic. # & (State)
MARYLAND STATE POLICE
AUTOMOTIVE SAFETY ENFORCEMENT DIVISION
ZONING APPROVAL FORM FOR AUTHORIZED INSPECTION STATION
SECTION A: To be completed by applicant and presented for approval to the local zoning authorities in the
County or Town in which the business is to be conducted and then returned to:
MARYLAND STATE POLICE, ASED, 6601 RITCHIE HIGHWAY,
GLEN BURNIE, MARYLAND 21062; Phone: 410-768-7388
Company Name - Including Trade Names (T/A) Telephone Number
Business Address
Street City County State Zip
Property Owner’s Name Telephone Number
Property Owner’s Address
Street City County State Zip
TYPE OF BUSINESS (Check Appropriate Blocks)
NEW VEHICLE DEALER FLEET STATION
USED VEHICLE DEALER INSPECTION STATION
SERVICE STATION/AUTO REPAIR FACILITY
=================================================================================
SECTION B: To be completed by Zoning Official to verify that applicant has met all local zoning requirements
to conduct the type of business specified above.
I certify that the business of _________________________________________________
(NAME OF BUSINESS, IDENTIFIED ABOVE)
DOES DOES NOT Meet all zoning requirements, including the issuance of a use and
occupancy permit if required, to conduct business as indicated in “Type of Business” above.
SIGNED:_____________ ___ __________
PRINTED NAME:
OFFICIAL CAPACITY:_____________ _____________ _
AGENCY/DEPARTMENT:
TELEPHONE NUMBER:_____ ____________________ __ _
DATE:___________ _________ ___
OPSCS-MSP 23-59 (01-07)
Maryland State Police
Automotive Safety Enforcement Division
6601 Ritchie Highway, Glen Burnie, MD 21062 410-768-7388 Fax: 410-761-2791
VEHICLE SAFETY INSPECTION STATION
REQUIRED INSPECTION EQUIPMENT
CLASS OF STATIONS
A – Passenger vehicles, low speed vehicles, limousines, recreational motor homes, trucks 10,000 pound
and under GVWR, trailers not equipped with air brakes (up to 20 feet in length), and multipurpose
passenger vehicles, except 3- wheeled multipurpose vehicles;
B – Any trailer, including those equipped with air brakes;
C – Trucks, truck tractors, buses, recreational motor homes, and converted buses
over 10,000 pounds GVWR;
D – Combination of Classes B and C;
F – Fleet (must own, operate, or control at least 15 vehicles);
M – Motorcycles and 3- wheeled multipurpose vehicles, and trailers 20 feet or less
in length, if the trailers are not equipped with air brakes;
R – Recreational motor homes and converted buses;
T – Any trailer up to 10,000 pounds GVWR;
G – Combination of Classes R and T.
COMAR 11.14.01.07 Inspection Test Equipment and Tools
A. Each applicant / licensee, except as noted, shall have the following test equipment and
tools approved by the Division which shall be maintained in proper working order at all
times. All test equipment or tools requiring calibration shall be calibrated as required by the
manufacturer, or more frequently if necessary and at least once a month. All inspection
tools not permanently mounted shall be kept together in the inspection bay. The Division
shall have the authority to add or delete from the list of required tools which follows, with
proper notification to all licensed inspection stations. The Division shall furnish a copy of
any additions or deletions by memorandum requiring licensed inspection stations to obtain
the necessary equipment within 90 days after written notification. The following is a quick
reference guide for class of stations required tools, reference material, and equipment:
(Revised February 1, 2012)
STATION
CLASS
A
B
C
D
F
M
R
T
G
Headlight Tester/
Transit & Track
(Class F when applicable)
X
X
X
X
X
X
Window Tint Meter / Test
Glass
(Class F when applicable)
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Brake Drum Micrometer/
Calibration Gauge
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Brake Disc Micrometer
/Calibration Gauge
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Ball Joint Checker
(Class F when applicable)
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Jack Stands
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Floor Jack
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Brake Shoe Lining
Thickness Gauge
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Brake Pad Thickness Gauge
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
DC Ammeter
(Class F when applicable)
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Screwdriver
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Tire Tread Depth Gauge
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
25’ Steel Tape
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Convex Mirrors
(Class F when applicable)
X
X
X
X
X
X
Miscellaneous Hand Tools
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Metric Conversion Chart
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Tire Pressure Gauge
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Four Foot Level
(Hoppy Vision 100 &
Symtech HBA 5)
X
X
X
X
X
X
Brake Guide Specifications
(Class F when applicable)
X
X
X
X
X
X
Ball Joint / Tire Guide
Specifications (Class F when
applicable)
X
Emissions Guide
Specifications (Class F when
applicable)
X
Vehicle Inspection
Handbook
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
1 HEADLIGHT TESTER One headlight tester; a track-mounted make or model:
(Currently only Hoppy Vision 1, 100, American Aimers Vision II
Pro, and Symtech HBA 5 headlight machines are approved)
a) Capable of accurately testing and aiming
headlamp beam patterns and high intensity
zones,
b) Equipped with an accurate beam candlepower
output display, and
c) Including necessary calibration equipment
(Not required for Class B, M, or T)
1 WINDOW TINT METER
Current Division approved tint meters:
• Advanced Light Transmittance Meter
• Pocket Detective Window Tint and Reflectivity
Meter
(Window Tint Meter) For Use On All Windows
part # 804-0
• Laser Labs
Model 400 Tint Meter
(Not Required for class B and T)
1 DRUM MICROMETER
CALIBRATION GAUGE
Compatible with the brake drum measuring tool;
1 DISC MICROMETER
CALIBRATION GAUGE
Compatible with the brake disc measuring tool;
1 BALL JOINT CHECKER Any make or model equipped with a dial indicator and capable
of accurately measuring ball joint or king pin movement in
increments of 0.001 of an inch (Not required for Class B or T).
2 JACK STANDS Two jack stands, any make or model, capable of supporting the
types of vehicles subject to inspection;
1 ROLLER/FLOOR JACK Any make or model capable of lifting types of vehicles subject to
inspection;
1 BRAKE DRUM MICROMETER Any make or model capable of accurately measuring for the
appropriate type of vehicle the inside diameter of brake drums in
at least 0.005 of an inch increments
1 DISC MICROMETER Any make or model capable of measuring for the appropriate
type of vehicle the thickness of discs or rotors in increments of
at least 0.001 of an inch with a pointed anvil.
1 BRAKE SHOE LINING
THICKNESS GAUGE
Any make or model capable of accurately measuring, for the
type of vehicles subject to inspection, in fractions of an inch the
remaining usable bonded brake lining or the thickness of brake
lining remaining above rivet heads.
1 BRAKE PAD THICKNESS GAUGE
Any make or model capable of accurately measuring for the
types of vehicles subject to inspection, in fractions of an inch the
remaining usable bonded brake disc pad lining or the thickness
of brake disc pad lining remaining above rivet heads.
1 AMMETER Any make or model having a range of 0-40 amperes DC current
(Not required for Class C and R)
1 SCREWDRIVER Any type, capable of spreading tire cuts and breaks to
determine severity of damage;
1 TIRE TREAD DEPTH GAUGE Any make or model capable of accurately measuring tire tread
depth in 1/32 of an inch.
1 25 FT. STEEL TAPE One minimum 25-foot steel tape of any type with clearly legible
S.A.E. figures and markings.
2 CONVEX MIRRORS
Two convex mirrors, a minimum of 12 inches in diameter each,
one mounted facing forward from the left rear corner and one
facing rearward on the right front corner of the inspection bay.
(Not required for Classes B, M, T);
MISCELLANEOUS HAND TOOLS Necessary to perform mechanical disassembly of vehicle
components to conduct inspections
1 METRIC CONVERSION CHART
Typewritten or commercially printed S.A.E. -to-metric and
metric-to-S.A.E. conversion chart enclosed in clear plastic;
1 TIRE PRESSURE GAUGE Any make or model, capable of measuring air pressure in
pounds per square inch (PSI) for class of vehicle being
inspected;
1 FOUR FT. CARPENTER’S
LEVEL
Any make or model, capable of determining horizontal and
vertical levelness (Required only if using the Hoppy Vision 100
and/or the Symtech Corporation “HBA 5” headlight machine)
SPECIFICATIONS GUIDE’S
Inspection stations shall have the following reference material
for the appropriate class of station:
Class “A” inspection stations and any Class “F” fleet
inspection stations inspecting the types of vehicles inspected by
a Class “A” inspection station shall have:
(a) Current model year brake, ball joint and tire guide
specifications by July 1
st
of that year; and
(b) Emission guide specifications that are within two
model years by July 1
st
of that year (for example, on July 1,
2011, such stations would be required to have either 2010 or
2011 model year emission guide specifications).
SPECIFICATION GUIDE’S Cont. Class “C, D, F, R, and G” inspection stations are required to
have current model year brake specifications by July 1
st
of that
year.
Agency Note: The required specifications may take the form
of a printed or electronic reference source from a computerized
system, provided the reference material contains required
specifications by July 1
st
of that year.
VEHICLE INSPECTION
HANDBOOK
To assist authorized inspection stations in purchasing a new
vehicle inspection handbook from the Division of State
Documents a blank order form has been posted on the
Division’s web site www.mdsp.org/ased under Downloads on
the left side of the home page. Please print and complete the
order form along with payment and mail to:
Office of the Secretary of State
Division of State Documents
State House
Annapolis, MD. 21401
Maryland State Police
Automotive Safety Enforcement Division
6601 Ritchie Highway, Glen Burnie, MD 21062 410-768-7388 Fax: 410-761-2791
INFORMATION FOR AUTHORIZED INSPECTION STATIONS
SYNOPSIS OF FACILITY REQUIREMENTS
Pursuant to Title 23, Sections 23-101 – 109 of the Transportation Article, annotated code of Maryland,
the owner of any registered dealership, repair shop, maintenance shop, and/or gasoline service station,
which has been in business for six months or more, interested in an Authorized Inspection Station License for a
facility must submit a completed application and a $100.00 non-refundable fee to the Automotive Safety
Enforcement Division of the Maryland State Police. The fee will be in the form of a money order, cashier’s check
or business check. Cash or personal checks are not accepted. In the event the business is owned by a corporation
located outside of Maryland, the application may be signed by a duly authorized representative of the company,
provided written power of attorney accompanies the application or is on file with the Automotive Safety
Enforcement Division.
Each application will be investigated to ascertain the adequacy of the place of business to inspect motor vehicles to
meet prescribed safety standards and to make corrections to and certify defective equipment and mechanisms.
The following requirements must be met for the type of license applied for. In the event a combination license is
applied for, the larger inspection and work area will prevail. All inside areas shall have a smooth, level hard
surfaced floor. A one percent slope from front to rear, rear to front or side to side is acceptable.
Authorized Inspection Station A
Shall be equipped with one (1) frame contact lift, capable of raising
vehicles at least five (5) feet off of the floor. Contain at least two work
areas, one of which must be at least twelve (12) feet wide
and twenty-five (25) feet long, clearly marked or designated as and used
for an inspection area.
Authorized Inspection Station B Contain an area at least twelve (12) feet wide and at least sixty (60) feet
long. This area may be outside; however, all other inspection areas must
be within an approved building.
Authorized Inspection Station C Contain an area at least fifteen (15) feet wide and forty-five (45) feet long
clearly marked or designated as and used for an inspection area.
Authorized Inspection Station D Must meet all requirements for Class “B” and “C”.
Authorized Inspection Station F Contain an inspection area meeting the requirements established for the
class(es) of vehicles owned or controlled by said facility.
Authorized Inspection Station M Contain an area at least ten (10) feet wide and fifteen (15) feet long clearly
marked or designated as and used for an inspection area
Authorized Inspection Station R Contain an area at least forty (40) feet long and twelve (12) feet wide
clearly marked or designated as and used for an inspection area
Authorized Inspection Station T This area shall be at least twelve (12) feet wide and sixty (60) feet long.
This area may be outside.
Authorized Inspection Station G Must meet all requirements of Classes “R” and “T”.
Approved facilities must have prescribed and approved equipment, including headlight testing equipment, brake
testing equipment, and wheel alignment equipment.
The applicant must furnish the Maryland State Police required information pertaining to personnel responsible for
proper motor vehicle inspections.
MSP 23-2 (2/06)
MARYLAND VEHICLE LAW
TITLE 23
VEHICLE LAWS – INSPECTION OF USED VEHICLES AND WARNINGS FOR DEFECTIVE
EQUIPMENT
SUBTITLE 1. DEFINITIONS; GENERAL PROVISIONS
§ 23-101. DEFINITIONS.
(a) In general.- In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b) Division.- "Division" means the Automotive Safety Enforcement Division of the Department of State Police.
(c) Equipment.- "Equipment" includes all mechanisms that form part of or relate to vehicle equipment.
(d) Facility.- "Facility" means a licensed dealer or a vehicle garage, repair shop, or gasoline service station.
(e) Inspection certificate.- "Inspection certificate" means a written certification by an inspection station that:
(1) Certifies that, as of its date, a specified vehicle meets or exceeds the standards for equipment
established under this title; and
(2) Is signed and dated on behalf of the inspection station by the registered individual who personally
inspected the vehicle.
(f) Inspection station.- "Inspection station" means a facility that is licensed by the Division under this subtitle.
(g) Police officer.- "Police officer" means:
(1) Any uniformed police officer; or
(2) Any civilian employee of the Department of State Police or the Maryland Transportation Authority
Police assigned to enforce this subtitle or any regulation adopted under this subtitle, but only while acting
under written authorization of the Secretary of the State Police.
(h) Repair order certification.- "Repair order certification" means a written certification by an inspection station or
police department that:
(1) Certifies that, as of its date, the equipment specified in a safety equipment repair order meets or exceeds
the standards established under this subtitle; and
(2) Is signed and dated:
(i) On behalf of the inspection station by the registered individual who personally inspected the
vehicle; or
(ii) On behalf of the police department by the authorized police officer who personally inspected the
vehicle.
(i) Vehicle.-
(1) "Vehicle" means, except as otherwise provided in this subsection, any vehicle registered or to be
registered in this State as:
(i) A Class A (passenger) vehicle;
(ii) A Class M (multipurpose) vehicle;
(iii) A Class J (vanpool) vehicle;
(iv) A Class E (truck) vehicle;
(v) A Class F (tractor) vehicle;
(vi) A Class G (trailer) vehicle;
(vii) A Class B (for-hire) vehicle; or
(viii) A Class D (motorcycle) vehicle.
(2) For purposes of safety equipment repair orders only, "vehicle" means, except as provided in paragraph
(3) of this subsection, any motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer.
(3) "Vehicle" does not include any Class L (historic) vehicle, or any trailer which is a mobile home as
defined by § 11-134 of this article.
§ 23-102. AUTOMOTIVE SAFETY ENFORCEMENT DIVISION.
(a) Established.- There is an Automotive Safety Enforcement Division in the Department of State Police.
(b) Personnel.- The Division shall have those employees that the Secretary of the State Police assigns and as
provided in the State budget.
(c) Enforcement of subtitle.-
(1) The Division shall enforce this subtitle in each of the counties of this State and Baltimore City.
(2) Civilian employees of the Division designated by the Secretary of the State Police shall have the
authority to enforce this subtitle and any regulation adopted under it when acting under written
authorization of the Secretary.
§ 23-103. LICENSING OF INSPECTION STATIONS.
(a) Inspection and approval of facilities; renewals.-
(1) On receipt of an application and a nonrefundable fee established by the Administration from a facility
for an inspection station license, the Division shall:
(i) Inspect the facility as to its ability to inspect and correct equipment; and
(ii) If the facility is qualified, issue to it a license as an inspection station.
(2) On receipt of a renewal application and the annual license fee established by the Administration for an
inspection station, the Division shall issue the renewal license if the facility is qualified.
(b) Scope of license.- The license authorizes the facility to:
(1) Inspect a used vehicle on request of its transferor or transferee and attach an inspection certificate to the
vehicle;
(2) Inspect the equipment of a vehicle for which a safety equipment repair order has been issued and issue a
repair order certification for the vehicle; and
(3) Inspect an ambulance on the request of its owner that is required to be inspected under § 13-515 of the
Education Article.
(c) Suspension and revocation of license.- The Division may:
(1) For cause, suspend or revoke an inspection station license; and
(2) On suspension or revocation of the license, require the surrender of the license and all related material
issued by the Division.
(d) Establishment of standards.- The Division may establish standards by rule or regulation for the licensing and
operation of inspection stations.
(e) Amount of fees.- The Administration may not set a fee under this section which exceeds the administrative
cost of the Division under this program.
§ 23-103.1. INSPECTION MECHANICS.
(a) Examination and registration.- On receipt of an application and a $15 nonrefundable fee to take the inspection
mechanic exam, the Division shall:
(1) Administer an exam to each mechanic applicant; and
(2) If the applicant is determined to be qualified, register the mechanic to conduct vehicle inspections.
(b) Standards.- The Division may establish standards by rule or regulation for the testing, qualifying, and
registering of inspection station mechanics.
(c) Suspension or revocation of registration.- The Division may:
(1) For cause, suspend or revoke the mechanic's registration; and
(2) On suspension or revocation of the mechanic's registration, rescind the authorization to conduct vehicle
inspections in accordance with this title.
§ 23-104. MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR EQUIPMENT.
(a) Equipment enumerated.- Every vehicle driven on the highways in this State shall, where applicable, have the
following equipment, meeting or exceeding the standards established jointly by the Administration and the
Division: brakes, steering, suspension, horn, door handles, mirrors, tires, exhaust system, lights, glazing,
windshield wipers, odometer, speedometer, bumpers, properly aligned wheels, wheels and wheel lugs, fenders,
floor pans, hood, hood catches, emissions equipment, fuel system, front seat, motor mounts, gear selection
indicator for automatic transmissions, universal joints, and seat belts or combination seat belt-shoulder harness if
required as original equipment under § 22-412 or § 22-412.1 of this article.
(b) Administration and Division to establish standards.- (1) The Administration and the Division jointly may
establish standards by rule or regulation for this equipment.
(2) The Administration and the Division shall adopt, consistent with federal law, regulations establishing
equipment, performance, and other technical standards for low speed vehicles.
§ 23-105. SAFETY EQUIPMENT REPAIR ORDER FOR DEFECTIVE EQUIPMENT.
(a) Issuance of order.-
(1) If a police officer observes that a vehicle registered in this State is being operated with any equipment
that apparently does not meet the standards established under this subtitle or the standards established under
§ 24-106.1 (e) of this article, the officer shall stop the driver of the vehicle and issue to him a safety
equipment repair order.
(2) A police officer may issue a safety equipment repair order for a cover required under § 24-106.1 (e) of
this article only if:
(i) The vehicle is equipped with a cover; and
(ii) The cover, or any equipment necessary to properly secure the cover, does not meet the standards
established under § 24-106.1 (e) of this article.
(b) Requisites of order.- The safety equipment repair order shall direct the owner of the vehicle:
(1) To have the equipment corrected as necessary at a place of the owner's choosing within 10 days from
the issuance of the order; and
(2) To send to the Division a repair order certification dated subsequent to the issuance of the order.
(c) Visual inspection permitted.-
(1) If a safety equipment repair order is for equipment that can be certified as corrected or adequate by
visual inspection and without the use of testing equipment, any police department that issues safety
equipment repair orders and repair order certifications shall, on request of the owner:
(i) Visually inspect the vehicle; and
(ii) If the equipment meets or exceeds the standards established under this subtitle, issue a repair
order certification.
(2) The Division shall determine the equipment that may be inspected visually under this subsection and
shall adopt rules and regulations to carry out its provisions.
(d) Issuance of forms.- The Division shall prepare and provide safety equipment repair order forms and repair
order certification forms.
(e) Enforcement of order.-
(1) In cooperation with the Administration, the Division shall adopt rules and regulations to carry out the
provisions of this section.
(2) The rules or regulations shall provide for:
(i) Suspending the registration of any vehicle for which a safety equipment repair order has been
issued, on failure to comply with the order within 30 days after its issuance; and
(ii) Reinstating the suspended registration, on receipt of satisfactory evidence that the equipment
has been corrected or that the equipment meets or exceeds the standards established under this
subtitle.
(f) Section not exclusive.- This section does not limit or supersede any other provision of law concerning vehicle
equipment or the means of enforcing the laws relating to that equipment.
§ 23-106. INSPECTION CERTIFICATE REQUIRED ON TRANSFER OF USED VEHICLES
(a) Exclusions.- This section does not apply to:
(1) Any transfer of a used vehicle to any licensed dealer or to any foreign dealer;
(2) Any transfer between:
(i) Spouses;
(ii) A parent and child; or
(iii) Co-owners of the vehicle to be transferred when a co-owner's name is being removed from the
title;
(3) Any transfer of a used vehicle that is not to be both titled and registered in this State;
(4) Any transfer of a used vehicle among any agencies of the State;
(5) Any transfer of a used vehicle as described in § 13-503.2 of this article; or
(6) Any transfer of a used vehicle into a written inter vivos trust in which the transferor is the primary
beneficiary.
(7) Any transfer of a used island vehicle, as defined in 13-935 of this article, registered, or to be registered,
as a Class K (farm area/island) vehicle.
(b) Certificate required.-
(1) Except as provided in paragraph (4) of this subsection, if any licensed dealer that also is an inspection
station transfers any used vehicle, it shall:
(i) Prepare and attach an inspection certificate to a window of the vehicle; or
(ii) Have an inspection certificate prepared and attached to a window of the vehicle by another
inspection station.
(2) Except as provided in paragraphs (4) and (5) of this subsection, if any other person transfers a used
vehicle, the person shall obtain an inspection certificate from an inspection station. The inspection
certificate shall be issued without charge and attached to a window of the vehicle.
(3) If a used vehicle is transferred other than by voluntary transfer or is transferred by a political
subdivision of the State after that subdivision obtains the vehicle by proceedings pursuant to Title 12 of the
Criminal Procedure Article, the transferee shall obtain the inspection certificate from an authorized
inspection station. The inspection certificate shall be issued without charge and attached to a window of the
vehicle.
(4) In the case of a transfer of any used vehicle registered, or to be registered, as a Class E (truck)
exceeding three-fourths ton manufacturer's rated capacity, Class F (tractor), Class G (freight trailer or
semitrailer), or Class G (dump service semitrailer) vehicle, the transferor or the transferee of the vehicle
may obtain the required inspection certificate.
(5) In the case of a transfer of any used vehicle registered or to be registered, that is sold for dismantling or
rebuilding purposes, the transferor or the transferee of the vehicle may obtain the required inspection
certificate.
(6) On applying for a certificate of title of the vehicle, the transferee shall remove the inspection certificate
from the vehicle and present it to the Administration.
§ 23-107. INSPECTION CERTIFICATE REQUIRED FOR VEHICLE TO BE TITLED AND
REGISTERED.
(a) In general.-
(1) Before the Administration titles and registers any used vehicle, it shall require the applicant to present a
valid inspection certificate for the vehicle.
(2) For the purposes of this subsection, an inspection certificate shall remain valid from the date the
inspection certificate is issued for a period of:
(i) 90 days; or
(ii) In the case of an inspection certificate issued for a used vehicle owned and held in inventory by
a dealer licensed under Title 15 of this article, the earlier of:
1. 6 months; or
2. When 1,000 miles have been added to the vehicle's odometer since the inspection
certificate was issued.
(3) This subsection does not apply to any vehicle transferred within 30 days after the date of an inspection
certificate issued for the vehicle and filed by the Administration in its title records.
(b) Titling and temporary registration of used vehicle obtained outside of State.-
(1) If any person otherwise entitled to title and register a vehicle in this State obtains a used vehicle outside
of this State and applies for titling and registration in this State, the Administration may:
(i) Withhold delivery of a certificate of title pending receipt of an inspection certificate; and
(ii) Issue a temporary registration on presentation of satisfactory evidence that the vehicle is located
outside of this State.
(2) A vehicle for which a temporary registration has been issued under this subsection shall be inspected
immediately on its arrival in this State.
(3) A temporary registration issued under this subsection expires at the earlier of:
(i) The end of the current registration year; or
(ii) 6 months from the date of its issuance.
(c) School vehicles with changed registration class.-
(1) When an existing school vehicle (Class H) is changed to any other registration class, the vehicle shall be
inspected at a licensed State inspection station.
(2) The inspection certificate shall be submitted at the time the vehicle is being registered in the new class.
(d) Buses.- All buses other than those that are required to be inspected annually by the Public Service Commission
or by the Administration shall be inspected annually at a licensed State inspection station.
§ 23-108. DIVISION TO PREPARE AND SUPPLY INSPECTION CERTIFICATE FORMS.
Statute text
The Division shall prepare inspection certificate forms and provide them without charge to inspection stations. The
forms shall be serially numbered and shall require the information that the Administration and the Division
determine.
§ 23-109. PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES.
Statute text
(a) Wrongful issuance of inspection certificate.- An inspection station or any of its employees may not issue an
inspection certificate for a vehicle without having inspected its equipment.
(b) Wrongful issuance of repair order certification.- An inspection station or any of its employees may not issue a
repair order certification for any specified equipment without having inspected that equipment.
(c) Wrongful issuance of certificate for vehicles not meeting standards.- An inspection station or any of its
employees may not willfully issue an inspection certificate for a vehicle the equipment of which does not meet or
exceed the standards established under this subtitle.
(d) Wrongful issuance of repair order certification for equipment not meeting standards.- An inspection station or
any of its employees may not willfully issue a repair order certification for any specified equipment if that
equipment does not meet or exceed the standards established under this subtitle.
(e) "Fictitious" defined.- In this section, "fictitious" includes an imitation, counterfeit, or altered certificate or
certification.
(f) Issuance or use of fictitious inspection certificates or repair order certificates.- A person may not make, issue,
or knowingly use any fictitious inspection certificate or repair order certification.
(g) Attachment of fictitious certificates.- A person may not attach or cause or permit to be attached to any vehicle
an inspection certificate knowing it to be fictitious or issued without the equipment having been inspected for
compliance with this subtitle.
(h) Issuance of fictitious repair order certifications.- A person may not issue or cause or permit to be issued a
repair order certification knowing it to be fictitious or issued without the equipment having been inspected for
compliance with this subtitle.
(i) Failure to surrender license.- On suspension or revocation of its license, an inspection station shall surrender to
the Division, at its request, the license and all related material issued by the Division.
(j) Alteration of certified equipment.- A person may not materially alter or change any equipment of a vehicle for
which an inspection certificate or a repair order certification has been issued under this subtitle.
(k) Violation of rules or regulations.- A person may not willfully violate any rule or regulation adopted under this
subtitle relating to inspection procedures and inspection station requirements.
