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.

Tinting on front door windows is less than 35%.

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. The inspector shall also check the vehicle for all safety features, including lights, wipers, horn, turn signals, glass, brakes, tires, exhaust, etc. 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 fee for an inspection is $15.00 cash or check only - sorry, no credit cards. For businesses that have 2 or more vehicles to be inspected, we can come to you but there will also be a trip fee charge of $20.00.

In accordance with KY House Bill 833 the fee for out of state Auto Inspections increased to $15 effective July 15th, 2024. Trip fees increased to $20.

• No appointment required
• Vehicle Title
• Your Drivers License
• $15.00 (cash or check only, Local Banks Preferred)

Due to high volumes of salvage title inspections at certain locations, we are implementing a limit to help balance demand. Beginning June 1, 2026, all professional salvage title inspections will be limited to two vehicles per day per location.

Eligible motor vehicle dealers may apply for Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office appointment of up to two (2) employees as special vehicle inspectors pursuant to KRS 186A.115(d). Click here to request an application.