Criminal Division

Kentucky law requires all vehicles purchased in another state to be inspected by the Sheriff in the county where the vehicle is to be licensed. No appointment is needed.

Please note: These requirements apply primarily to automobiles, trucks and motorcycles that have been in good working condition, considered roadworthy under KRS, and have been previously registered in another state.

WHY DO I NEED AN INSPECTION?

An out of state inspection is only required when a vehicle is brought into Kentucky from another state or purchased in another state, and whereas the owner is going to reside in Jefferson County, and would like to obtain a Jefferson County license plate. Your vehicle must comply with the provisions of KRS Chapter 189 pertaining to vehicle equipment.

Simply put, your vehicle must be in a safe condition for operation upon the highway and capable of transporting both persons and contents in a safe manner. This would include, but not be limited to, the brakes, steering, headlights, rear lights, brake lights, and turn signals being in place and fully operable. Additionally, all window glass must be in place and the vehicle must be equipped with operable front windshield wipers.

Tinting on front door windows is less than 35%.

WHAT WILL BE INSPECTED?

A Jefferson County Deputy Sheriff, certified in vehicle inspections, will check the vehicle identification number (VIN) and compare it with the number on the Title or Certificate of Origin. The inspector shall also check the vehicle for all safety features, including lights, wipers, horn, turn signals, glass, brakes, tires, exhaust, etc. This information, along with the vehicle’s mileage, is recorded on a Kentucky Application for Certificate of Title/Registration Form.

You must take this completed form to the County Clerk to obtain your Kentucky license plate.

WHAT IS THE COST?

The fee for an inspection is $15.00 cash or check only - sorry, no credit cards. For businesses that have 5 or more vehicles to be inspected, we can come to you but there will also be a single trip fee charge of $20.00.

After June 1st 2026, payment will be required for all failed auto inspection.

SALVAGE TITLE INSPECTIONS

Due to high volumes of salvage title inspections at certain locations, we are implementing a limit to help balance demand. Beginning June 1, 2026, all professional salvage title inspections will be limited to two vehicles per day per location.

SPECIAL VEHICLE INSPECTOR

Eligible motor vehicle dealers may apply for Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office appointment of up to two (2) employees as special vehicle inspectors pursuant to KRS 186A.115(d). Click here to request an application.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?

• No appointment required
• Vehicle Title
• Your Drivers License
• $15.00 (cash or check only, Local Banks Preferred)

Please call any of the following numbers with questions about salvage titles, golf carts, scooters, trailers, mopeds etc., as often there are specific requirements for special vehicles that fall outside of the usual out of state transfer and registration.