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 Jefferson County, and would like to obtain a Jefferson 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 Jefferson County Deputy Sheriff, 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.

Please note: The above requirements apply primarily to automobiles, trucks and motorcycles that have been in good working condition, considered roadworthy under KRS, and have been previously registered in another state.

Please call any of the following numbers with questions about salvage titles, golf carts, scooters, trailers, mopeds etc., as often there are specific requirements for specific vehicles that fall outside of the usual out of state transfer and registration.