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Does Utah require a safety inspection?

For most cars and light trucks, no. Utah removed the safety inspection as a registration requirement on January 1, 2018.

Key facts

Most passenger vehicles: no safety inspection needed to register. (Source: Utah Division of Motor Vehicles; Utah Highway Patrol)
Still required: salvage vehicles the first time they are registered as salvage, and rebuilt salvage vehicles seeking a rebuilt title. (Source: Utah Division of Motor Vehicles; Utah Legislature)
Still required: first-time street-legal ATV registrations, including ownership transfers. (Source: Utah Division of Motor Vehicles; Utah Highway Patrol)
Annual inspection: commercial vehicles, ground transportation (for-hire) vehicles, buses, vans for hire, taxicabs, and vehicles with three or more axles or pulling trailers. (Source: Utah Legislature)
Commercial vehicle certificates are kept in the vehicle for law enforcement; they are not submitted for registration. (Source: Utah Division of Motor Vehicles)

Even without an inspection, every vehicle must still meet Utah equipment and safety laws. The Tax Commission advises owners to check tires, brakes, steering, suspension and lights often. (Source: Utah Highway Patrol; Utah State Tax Commission) No state inspection does not mean no inspection: if anything about those systems seems wrong, have a certified (ASE) mechanic inspect the vehicle.

Safety first. This page is general information, not a diagnosis or repair instructions. Do not try to fix brakes, steering, tires or warning-light problems yourself based on this site. Have a certified (ASE) mechanic inspect the vehicle. If braking or steering feels wrong, or a red warning light comes on, stop driving as soon as it is safe and have the vehicle inspected before you drive it again; if you are unsure, have it towed.

FAQ

When did Utah stop requiring safety inspections?

January 1, 2018, for most passenger vehicles.

Do I need a safety inspection for a rebuilt title?

Yes. Salvage vehicles that have been rebuilt and are requesting a rebuilt title need one.

Can this site tell me what is wrong with my car?

No. Utah Auto Help is general information, not a diagnosis. Brakes, steering, tires, warning lights and oil pressure are safety issues that need a professional inspection by a certified (ASE) mechanic. If the car does not feel safe to drive, stop driving and have it inspected or towed.

Sources

Inspections, Utah Division of Motor Vehicles
Vehicle Owner Safety Inspection Information, Utah Highway Patrol
Utah Code 53-8-205: Safety inspection required for certain vehicles, Utah Legislature
Pub 9: Registration and titling, Utah State Tax Commission

Last checked October 26, 2026. Rules and prices change; confirm with the source before you rely on them.