How to Complete a VIN Inspection in Oregon
An Oregon VIN verification is required for certain vehicles to be in accordance with state traffic laws. The most significant reason for drivers to verify a VIN number is to make sure that their cars are roadworthy and have accurate information attached to their titles. In general, OR VIN inspection procedures can be administered in a few different ways, depending on the model year of each vehicle. Furthermore, the state’s Driver & Motor Vehicle Services (DMV) also offers different types of state car inspection processes, which certain cars may be subjected to.
It is important to understand the specific instances when car owners are required to request a VIN number verification for their vehicles. The helpful sections below will describe when drivers should expect to get a vehicle verification, detail the establishments where these services are offered and provide tips for motorists to prepare their vehicles to undergo a new car inspection.
When is an Oregon VIN verification required?
The Oregon DMV requires car owners to request VIN inspections whenever they bring in vehicles from different states. Thus, a VIN verification is required for vehicles that are transferred to OR due to the fact that their owners moved to the state, as well as in the case of Oregon motorists who purchase a car from another state. Furthermore, a VIN inspection is also required for:
- Vehicles with out-of-country titles
- Vehicles being titled for the first time as totaled and reconstructed, assembled, or replica
- Vehicles with surrendered titles, including vehicles that were stolen and recovered without being totaled from damage
- Oregon vehicles with salvage titles, when applying for a regular Oregon title
On the other hand, the state DMV does not require a vehicle verification for certain cars. The following types of vehicles are exempt from having to undergo a VIN validation:
- Out-of-country vehicles
- Vehicles with salvage titles
- Vehicles with reconstructed titles
- Vehicles that don’t require VIN inspection tests, which include:
- Motorcycles
- Trailers
- Diesel-powered vehicles that weigh more than 8,500 pounds
- Vehicles registering outside the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) vehicle inspection boundaries
Whenever drivers verify the VIN number on their cars, they are also required to go through the new vehicle inspection process in Oregon. This type of inspection includes a series of different tests that certain vehicles must pass, such as:
- Onboard diagnostics test: This test inspects the onboard diagnostics computer of a car, ensuring that the pollution control equipment is working properly. This procedure is performed on cars that were manufactured in 1996 or later.
- Tailpipe emissions test: This test ensures that the emissions from a vehicle’s tailpipe do not exceed regulated standards. Generally, this vehicle inspection is only required in the case of cars that were manufactured in 1995 or earlier.
- Other tests: There are various test methods through which drivers can complete the car inspection processes required for their vehicles, including:
- Self-service test – Available for models from 1996 and younger.
- Car dealership – Available for models from 1996 and younger.
- DEQ Too test – Available for models from 2005 and younger.
Where can I go to obtain a VIN inspection in Oregon?
Oregon drivers can complete the VIN number validation process at a local DMV office or through a licensed car dealership in Oregon. If the vehicle needs both a VIN verification and an emissions test, motorists can also perform these procedures through the state Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
Authorized car inspection stations, which are referred to as Clean Air Stations in OR, are also available at the DEQ, where drivers can complete the self-service test and DEQ Too test, if desired.
What to Bring to a VIN Number Verification in Oregon
In order for motorists to verify VIN numbers on their vehicles, they must prepare certain paperwork and collect the necessary information to complete the process. Oregon drivers should fill out and bring a DMV VIN verification form, which is available on the state’s official DMV website or through a local DMV office.
This form must contain information regarding a car and the signature of its registered owner. Moreover, drivers should expect to pay a set VIN inspection fee, which may vary depending on where the procedure takes place. In any case, applicants must be mindful to bring an acceptable form of payment with them during their visit.
If necessary, a vehicle inspection form for an emissions test should also be completed. When going in for a state vehicle inspection, a driver should:
- Turn off his or her cell phone in the testing lane.
- Make sure that his or her vehicle is not a safety hazard. Generally, cars should be in good working condition. If a vehicle is producing excessive smoke, it will not be tested. If the check engine light is on in car models made in 1996 or newer, they will not pass the test.
- Disconnect trailers and other mobile equipment.
What to Do After Completing a VIN Inspection in Oregon
After a vehicle passes a VIN verification, the driver will be given a completion certificate that is valid for 180 days. Moreover, the car will not be required to undergo another test for two years. On the other hand, if a car fails this vehicle verification, its owner will receive documents that detail every issue that was encountered. This gives vehicle owners the chance to reach out to a mechanic and repair all issues.
It is important to note that low-income drivers may qualify for the Clean Air Partners Program in Oregon, which fixes minor issues on car models from 1996 and earlier that failed a car inspection. Motorists who need to operate their vehicles after a failed VIN inspection and emissions test before completing the necessary repairs have the option of applying for a 21-day permit. However, this temporary fee will subject vehicle owners to additional fees.