Kentucky law requires all vehicles purchased in another state to be inspected by the Sheriff in the county where the vehicle is to be licensed. The inspection is intended to insure that the vehicle is “road worthy” and can be operated safely.
WHY DO I NEED AN INSPECTION?
An out-of-state inspection is only required when a vehicle is brought into Kentucky from another state or purchased in another state, and whereas the owner is going to reside in Clark County, and would like to obtain a Clark County license plate. Your vehicle must comply with the provisions of KRS Chapter 189 pertaining to vehicle equipment. Simply put, your vehicle must be in a safe condition for operation upon the highway and capable of transporting both persons and contents in a safe manner. This would include, but not be limited to, the brakes, steering, headlights, rear lights, brake lights, and turn signals being in place and fully operable. Additionally, all window glass must be in place and the vehicle must be equipped with operable front windshield wipers.
WHAT WILL BE INSPECTED?
A Clark County Deputy Sheriff or a Clark County Deputy Clerk certified in vehicle inspections, will check the vehicle identification number (VIN) and compare it with the number on the Title or Certificate of Origin. This information, along with the vehicle’s mileage, is recorded on a Kentucky Application for Certificate of Title/Registration Form. You must take this completed form to the County Clerk to obtain your Kentucky license plate. The inspector may also check the vehicle for all safety features, including lights, wipers, horn, turn signals, glass, brakes, etc.
WHAT IS THE COST?
If an inspection is performed at the Clark County Sheriff’s office, the cost is $15. There is an additional trip fee of $20 if a deputy performs an inspection off-site. Off-site inspections must be pre-paid in the Sheriff’s office prior to scheduling the inspection. To schedule an off-site inspection, call (859) 744-2111.