North Carolina drivers have seen a few important inspection updates recently, and more changes may be on the way. If your vehicle is due for inspection soon, it helps to know what has changed, what still applies, and what you should expect before renewing your registration.
Window Tint Checks Are No Longer Part of Safety Inspections
As of December 1, 2025, North Carolina no longer requires window-tint checks as part of the annual vehicle safety inspection. The additional $10 window-tint inspection fee has also been eliminated.
That does not mean tint laws are gone. Vehicles with after-factory window tint still need to comply with North Carolina requirements. According to NCDMV, tinted windows may not measure darker than 32 percent when tested with a North Carolina-approved tint meter, and windshield tint cannot extend more than 5 inches below the top of the windshield or below the AS1 line, whichever is longer.
There is also a new traffic stop rule. If your vehicle has tinted windows and you are pulled over, drivers must roll down the window on the side where the law enforcement officer approaches.
Emissions Testing May Be Changing Too
Emissions testing is another area to watch. In May 2026, the EPA proposed approving North Carolina’s request to remove vehicle emissions testing requirements from the remaining 19 counties where testing is still required. If finalized, this would remove the federal emissions testing requirement for those counties, although Mecklenburg County would still continue emissions testing under state law.
For now, drivers should not assume emissions inspections have ended. As WUNC reported on May 22, 2026, the EPA proposal had not yet been finalized and was still in a public comment period.
What Drivers Should Do Before Their Next Inspection
Even with rule changes, North Carolina vehicles still need an annual safety inspection. Before your inspection, it is still smart to check the basics: lights, tires, wipers, brakes, mirrors, horn, and dashboard warning lights.
If you are unsure whether your vehicle needs a safety inspection, emissions inspection, or both, Carolina Quick Lube can help you understand what applies to your vehicle and get you through the inspection process as smoothly as possible.