New vehicle inspection fees in effect Monday in Kentucky

According to a change in Kentucky law, vehicle inspection fees will increase effective July 15.

Beginning Monday, Kentucky drivers who need vehicle inspections will now pay more for the service, which is required for vehicles purchased outside of the state. 

House Bill 833 became law in April and includes a provision that allows sheriffs offices to increase the fees they charge for conducting inspections. It also allows sheriffs to appoint “special inspectors” designated to a particular dealership. Special inspectors can be assigned to a new motor vehicle dealer or a larger dealership, specifically, one that has sold on average 100 or more vehicles each month during the previous 12 months. 

Before HB 833, the vehicle inspection fee was set at $5. Going forward, a new fee structure includes: $15 for an individual who needs a vehicle inspection; $15 for a motor vehicle dealer that does not qualify for a special inspector; $30 for a dealer that qualifies for a designated special inspector.

Trip fee charges will also increase from $10 to $20 for those who need an inspector to travel to the location of the vehicle for an inspection.



(Photo: Ohio County Sheriffs office)