NEW-YORK · automotive-tech
NY Certified Motor Vehicle Inspector
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles — Office of Vehicle Safety and Clean AirScope of Work
A New York State Certified Motor Vehicle Inspector examines motor vehicles at a licensed New York State inspection station to verify that vehicles operating on New York State highways meet all requirements established by the NY DMV. Inspectors perform both safety inspection and (in covered counties) emissions inspection. The credential is regulated under 15 NYCRR § 79.17 (Qualifications and duties of certified motor vehicle inspectors). Source: NY DMV Motor Vehicle Inspector Certification (https://dmv.ny.gov/business/apply-for-or-update-a-motor-vehicle-inspector-certification) and 15 NYCRR § 79.17 (https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/new-york/15-NYCRR-79.17).
Minimum Age
Applicants must be at least 17 years of age. Source: NY DMV Motor Vehicle Inspector Certification (https://dmv.ny.gov/business/apply-for-or-update-a-motor-vehicle-inspector-certification).
Experience or Education Qualification
Applicants must meet one of two qualifying paths: (1) at least one year of experience repairing motor vehicles within the past five years, with the experience taking place in an approved auto mechanic school study program or a firm in the automotive industry; or (2) a high school, vocational school, or college certificate from an automotive technician study program (e.g., a vocational automotive trades diploma or a certificate showing at least one year completed in an associate's degree). Source: NY DMV Motor Vehicle Inspector Certification (https://dmv.ny.gov/business/apply-for-or-update-a-motor-vehicle-inspector-certification).
Exam
All applicants must pass a written exam administered by the NY DMV. The minimum passing score is 70%. Source: NY DMV Motor Vehicle Inspector Certification (https://dmv.ny.gov/business/apply-for-or-update-a-motor-vehicle-inspector-certification).
Application Fee
The total application fee is $25, comprising a $10 non-refundable processing fee and a $15 three-year certification fee. Source: NY DMV Motor Vehicle Inspector Certification (https://dmv.ny.gov/business/apply-for-or-update-a-motor-vehicle-inspector-certification).
Client ID Requirement
Applicants must have a valid New York State DMV Identification Number from a New York driver license, learner permit, or non-driver photo ID. Out-of-state residents may obtain a NY DMV Client ID Number by completing a Request for Photo Image at any NY DMV office. Source: NY DMV Motor Vehicle Inspector Certification (https://dmv.ny.gov/business/apply-for-or-update-a-motor-vehicle-inspector-certification).
Processing Time and Renewal
Processing typically takes 6 to 8 weeks. The certification is valid for three years. Source: NY DMV Motor Vehicle Inspector Certification (https://dmv.ny.gov/business/apply-for-or-update-a-motor-vehicle-inspector-certification).
Note on Scope
The NY Motor Vehicle Inspector credential is the right to perform New York's annual inspection at a licensed inspection station. New York does not license individual general repair mechanics; technicians performing routine repair work in New York without conducting state inspections do not need this credential. Operating an inspection station also requires a separate facility license issued by NY DMV.
Verified May 1, 2026 · compiled from public sources, verify current rules with New York State Department of Motor Vehicles — Office of Vehicle Safety and Clean Air before acting