How the VSSI Process Works
From repairs to registration — here's everything you need to know to get your salvage vehicle back on the road. We've broken it down into 5 simple steps.
Make Sure All Repairs Are Complete
Before scheduling your VSSI, all damage to the vehicle must be fully repaired. The technician will inspect every safety system — so the vehicle needs to be in road-ready condition.
Work with a licensed auto shop to ensure repairs follow the original manufacturer's specifications (OEM standards). Improper repairs are one of the most common reasons vehicles fail.
Also check for any open safety recalls on your vehicle. You can look these up for free at the NHTSA website using your VIN. Open recalls must be resolved before the inspection — the station's computer system automatically checks for them.
Pro Tips
- •Get repair receipts — bring them to the inspection
- •Check NHTSA.gov for open recalls using your VIN
- •Make sure the windshield has no cracks
- •Verify all lights work before arriving
Find a Licensed VSSI Inspection Station
Not every auto shop can perform a VSSI. You must go to a station that is licensed by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) specifically for vehicle safety systems inspections.
Use our station finder to search for licensed VSSI stations near you. You can also use the official BAR Auto Shop Locator at bar.ca.gov.
Call ahead to confirm the station accepts your vehicle type (some stations don't inspect motorcycles, RVs, or heavy trucks). Ask about pricing and whether you need an appointment.
Pro Tips
- •Confirm the station is BAR-licensed for VSSI
- •Ask if they inspect your specific vehicle type
- •Schedule an appointment — inspections take 2–3 hours
- •Ask about pricing upfront (stations must provide a written estimate)
The Inspection Day
On the day of your inspection, bring your vehicle registration documents and any repair documentation. The technician will scan your VIN and enter your vehicle information into the BAR Safety Inspection System (BAR-SIS).
The technician will systematically inspect all 7 safety systems: lighting, passenger compartment, tires & wheels, brakes, steering & suspension, body structure, and perform a road test.
The inspection typically takes 2–3 hours. The technician uses specialized equipment and must certify their findings under penalty of perjury — so this is a thorough, professional inspection.
Pro Tips
- •Bring vehicle registration and repair receipts
- •Do NOT use a temporary spare tire — the vehicle will fail
- •Make sure the OBD port (under the dashboard) is accessible
- •The horn must work — test it before you arrive
Receive Your Vehicle Safety Report
At the end of the inspection, the station will give you a printed Vehicle Safety Report (VSR). This report lists all the inspection findings.
If your vehicle PASSES: The station will electronically send your Certificate of Compliance directly to the DMV. Keep your copy of the VSR — you'll need it for DMV registration.
If your vehicle FAILS: The VSR will explain exactly what needs to be fixed. Get those repairs done, then return for a new inspection. The station must re-inspect all safety systems, not just the repaired items.
Pro Tips
- •Keep your VSR — the DMV may ask for it
- •If you fail, the report tells you exactly what to fix
- •After repairs, get a completely new inspection
- •If recalls were the issue, the manufacturer fixes them for free
Register with the DMV & Hit the Road!
Once your vehicle passes the VSSI, the Certificate of Compliance is sent electronically to the DMV. You don't need to submit a paper copy.
Visit the DMV to complete your vehicle registration. Depending on your vehicle's model year, you may also need a Smog Check (required for 1976 and newer vehicles).
Once all requirements are met, the DMV will issue you a salvage title and registration. Your vehicle is now legally on the road — and you know it's safe because it passed a rigorous inspection!
Pro Tips
- •A Smog Check may also be required (1976+ vehicles)
- •Visit dmv.ca.gov for registration information
- •You will NOT need another VSSI for future renewals
- •Celebrate — your vehicle is road-ready and safe!
Don't Get Caught Off Guard
Most inspection failures are preventable. We've put together a detailed guide covering the 12 most common reasons vehicles fail — and exactly how to fix each one before your appointment.
See Top Failure ReasonsReady to Find a Station?
Use our station finder to locate a licensed VSSI inspection station near you.