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
| Section | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Purpose & Authority | Oversight of vehicle safety and emissions inspections |
| Vehicle Inspection Requirements | Types of vehicles inspected, inspection intervals, exemptions |
| Certification | Licensing of inspection stations and inspectors |
| Inspection Procedures | Standards and protocols for vehicle inspections |
| Enforcement | Investigation, penalties, and appeals |
| Recordkeeping & Reporting | Documentation and data reporting |
| Public Education & Outreach | Informing 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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