Indiana Administrative Code Title 160 - DEPARTMENT OF VEHICLE INSPECTION

Indiana Administrative Code

Title 160 – Department of Vehicle Inspection

Overview

Title 160 of the Indiana Administrative Code governs the Department of Vehicle Inspection (DVI), which is responsible for regulating the inspection of vehicles within Indiana to ensure they meet safety and environmental standards. This department oversees the inspection process, certifies inspection stations and inspectors, and enforces compliance with vehicle inspection laws.

The rules within this title ensure that vehicles on Indiana’s roads are safe to operate and meet emissions standards where applicable, helping to protect public safety and environmental quality.

Key Areas Covered in Title 160

1. Purpose and Authority

The Department of Vehicle Inspection operates under state laws to promote vehicle safety and emissions control.

Authorized to establish inspection standards, certify inspection stations, and enforce vehicle inspection requirements.

Works in coordination with other state agencies such as the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and environmental departments.

2. Vehicle Inspection Requirements

Specifies which types of vehicles require periodic inspections, such as passenger cars, trucks, and commercial vehicles.

Details inspection intervals (e.g., annually or biennially).

Defines the types of inspections, including:

Safety inspections (brakes, lights, tires, steering, etc.).

Emissions inspections (in certain counties or regions).

Provides exemptions where applicable (e.g., certain antique or off-road vehicles).

3. Certification of Inspection Stations and Inspectors

Sets standards for licensing and certifying authorized vehicle inspection stations.

Outlines requirements for inspectors, including training, qualifications, and renewal of certification.

Requires stations and inspectors to comply with inspection procedures and maintain equipment standards.

4. Inspection Procedures

Detailed protocols for conducting vehicle inspections.

Guidelines on what components and systems must be checked.

Procedures for documenting and reporting inspection results.

Requirements for issuing inspection certificates or decals upon successful inspection.

5. Enforcement and Penalties

Authority to investigate violations such as fraudulent inspections or use of uncertified stations.

Penalties for non-compliance, including fines, suspension of licenses, or revocation of certification.

Procedures for appeals or hearings related to enforcement actions.

6. Recordkeeping and Reporting

Requirements for inspection stations to maintain records of inspections performed.

Reporting of inspection data to the Department or other relevant state agencies.

Confidentiality and retention periods for inspection records.

7. Public Education and Outreach

Programs to inform vehicle owners about inspection requirements and procedures.

Guidance on vehicle maintenance to pass inspections.

Collaboration with automotive repair businesses and environmental groups.

Summary Table

SectionKey Points
Purpose & AuthorityOversight of vehicle safety and emissions inspections
Vehicle Inspection RequirementsTypes of vehicles inspected, inspection intervals, exemptions
CertificationLicensing of inspection stations and inspectors
Inspection ProceduresStandards and protocols for vehicle inspections
EnforcementInvestigation, penalties, and appeals
Recordkeeping & ReportingDocumentation and data reporting
Public Education & OutreachInforming vehicle owners and stakeholders

Conclusion

The Indiana Administrative Code Title 160 provides the regulatory framework for the Department of Vehicle Inspection to ensure that vehicles operating on Indiana roads are safe and environmentally compliant. Through inspection standards, certification processes, and enforcement, the department helps maintain road safety and reduce harmful emissions.

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