Car Inspection in Oklahoma

Currently, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) doesn't require inspections of any type for vehicle registration or registration renewal. This includes smog tests as well as safety and vehicle inspections.

Controlling Smog and Emissions Pollution

Motor vehicles play a pretty big role in the formation of smog, especially given the airborne by-products from their exhaust systems. These vehicle emissions and the environmental damage they cause are the main reason many states require smog checks.

However, just because Oklahoma doesn't require smog and emissions testing doesn't mean you can't do your part to cut back on vehicle air pollution.

Responsible practices include:

• Keeping up with regular vehicle maintenance such as oil and air filter changes.
• Making vehicle repairs as soon as they arise.
• Driving the speed limit.
• Carpooling with friends and coworkers.
• Condensing errands and other trips into one ride.

In addition to these green driving practices, you might also consider purchasing an eco-friendly vehicle. These sorts of cars, including hybrids and alternative fuel vehicles, can even help you save some green. Read on for details.

Oklahoma Incentives for Eco-Friendly Driving

As mentioned above, there are plenty of financial perks for driving green, even if the state doesn't require your vehicle to pass a smog check.

For example, Oklahoma drivers of eco-friendly vehicles might be able to take advantage of:

• Tax incentives, including the:
  • Alternative Fuel Vehicle Income Tax Credits.
  • Federal Tax Incentives for Green Vehicles.
• The Natural Gas Rebate and Loan Programs for vehicles operated by compressed natural gas (CNG).
• Potential auto insurance discounts, including discounts for:
  • Driving eco-friendly vehicles such as electric vehicles (EV), hybrids, and alternative fuel vehicles (AFV).
  • Practicing green driving habits, such as those listed above.

Get more details about each of these benefits over at our section on green driving incentives.

Keeping Your Vehicle Road Safe

Just as it doesn't require smog checks, Oklahoma doesn't require vehicle safety inspections, either; however, for the safety of you and others, it's in everyone's best interest to keep vehicles in great working order. Keeping tabs on your vehicle's maintenance also can help cut back on smog and emissions!

Depending on your experience level, there are a few issues you can regularly monitor yourself. For example:

• Does your horn work properly?
• Do your brake lights, taillights, headlights, and turn signal lights all work?
• Is your license plate securely attached?
• Are your tires properly inflated? Is the tread in good condition?
• Are all of your mirrors, including your side view and rearview, properly affixed?

Other issues might be better left to a professional. For example, a professional auto repair technician can make sure:

• All the fluids are at their proper levels. These fluids include oil, transmission, brake, radiator, power steering, and even windshield washer fluids.
• The air filter is clean.
• The brakes are in working order. (Of course, if you hear any squeaking when you use your brakes, bring your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible.)
• Equipment such as the battery, spark plugs, and belts are functioning properly and isn't ready to be changed.
• Your tires don't need rotated or changed.

Remember, keeping your vehicle in the best working order can help cut back on both smog and emissions AND vehicle accidents.