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Information for Stations & Mechanics

The Automotive Safety Enforcement Division (ASED) licenses and oversees the operation of all licensed inspection stations and inspection personnel in Maryland. To review the regulations governing the operation of inspection stations see COMAR sections 11.14.01.01 - 11.14.01.06  To apply for a license to operate a licensed inspection station, Please download the application and instructions (MSP form # 23-1) Initial Application for Authorized Inspection Station License. Complete the application, attach the required documents and mail to the address stated on the application. Questions concerning the application process can be sent to msp.ased@maryland.gov. You must submit the following documentation:
  • Application for Authorized Inspection License (form #MSP 23-1) – Be sure to complete both sides of the form and check all of the license classes you are applying for. For vehicle class definitions and other requirements related to the operation of an inspection station, see COMAR section 11.14.01.01
  • Zoning Approval Form (form #OPSCS-MSP 23-59) - A zoning official from the jurisdiction where the inspection station is located must sign the form indicating that the business meets all zoning requirements, including the issuance and use of an occupancy permit, if one is required.
  • Fire safety inspection report
  • Trader’s License (copy) – A copy of a Trader’s License is required if you will be selling items over the counter to customers. The license can be obtained from the Circuit Court in the jurisdiction where your facility is located.
  • Power of Attorney - This form is required if the person who applies is a duly authorized representative of the company or corporation, but not an owner, partner or corporate officer.

As part of the review process, ASED personnel will inspect your facility to confirm that it meets all facility, equipment and personnel requirements.

Fees:

The fee for applying to become an authorized inspection station is $100. Payment must be in the form of a money order, certified check or business check. Cash or personal checks cannot be accepted.
Annual license renewal is $50, all renewals are completed online at Station Renewal

Additional fees may be charged if significant changes occur in the station’s operation, such as its location or ownership.

Inspection Mechanic
To become a registered inspection mechanic you must apply online and register for written examinations at  Inspection Mechanic Exams

Requirements for Inspection Mechanics Refer to COMAR 11.14.01.03 for all requirements
  • At least 18 years of age; or 17 years of age and possess a certificate of satisfactory completion of an automotive mechanic's course from an accredited Maryland high school or its equivalent;
  • Have a minimum of 12 months general motor vehicle repair experience;
  • Possess a valid driver's license issued in the applicant's name for the class of vehicle to be driven in the course of inspection;
  • Receive a grade of at least 80 on the administrative and Class examination.
  • Successfully performing a demonstrated ability exam as required and prescribed by ASED


 

Important Information

***NEW***​

In-person services with ASED have been suspended effective Monday, December 21, 2020 through Sunday, January 03, 2021.  

The following services that ASED performs will be suspended during this time frame:  ​
-There will be no inspection mechanic written testing allowed at the MVA law rooms.
-There will be no verification of Safety Equipment Repair Orders at State Police Facilities or at the Motor Vehicle Administration.  
-All Salvage Inspections will be suspended during this time as well.


***NEW***

The Division has instituted a new Vehicle Safety Inspection Program Bulletin to provide interpretation of regulation or guidance for procedures related to the vehicle safety inspection program for specific circumstances not covered by the Vehicle Inspection Handbook, and to address emerging automotive technical innovations, inspection procedures, or emerging automotive technical innovations which may seem to be in conflict with current regulations. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Bulletins​

***NEW***​

 The Division has established a new form for the Medical Exemption for window tint regulations.  The form is located on the downloads page  (Click here).  Please see the linked document for some general information about the new form.

Medical Exemption tint explanation


  ***RENEWALS ARE ACTIVE***

Annual inspection station license renewal begins April 1st.  All renewals are completed online at this link: Station Renewal

 Please remember the information​ entered on the renewal form must match that which is on file with the Division or it will be returned. Changes require a new application (located on the Download Page).