If you’re preparing to have your vehicle inspected for safety, you might be wondering how long it will take.
The short answer is: usually about one to two hours. But depending on your vehicle’s condition, it can take longer, especially if repairs are needed.
At Craftsman Collision, we don’t perform inspections ourselves, but we do help drivers pass them, especially when auto body issues like frame damage, rust, or a cracked windshield get in the way.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how long a safety inspection typically takes, what affects that timing, and how to prepare your vehicle to save time and stress.
What Is a Car Safety Inspection?
In Canada, a vehicle safety inspection is a formal process where a licensed technician checks your car to make sure it meets road safety standards. You may need one if:
- You’re registering an out-of-province vehicle
- Your vehicle has been rebuilt or written off and is returning to the road
- You received a Notice & Order for unsafe operation
- You’re registering a salvage vehicle for the first time
For more details, visit ICBC’s inspection page or the Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement (CVSE) site.
Does your car need repairs to pass? Book a repair estimate with Craftsman.
How Long Does a Car Safety Take?
Most car inspections take about 60 to 120 minutes. You’ll usually wait at the shop while the inspection is performed, and then receive a written report outlining the results.
However, inspection time can vary depending on several factors:
- Vehicle type: Larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks may take longer.
- Shop scheduling: Walk-ins may wait longer than pre-booked appointments.
- Technician experience: Some inspections go faster with seasoned inspectors.
- Vehicle condition: Rust, previous damage, or aftermarket modifications can slow things down, especially if a second opinion or repair is needed.
If your vehicle requires repairs before it can pass, the total timeline may stretch to a day or more, depending on the issue.
What Happens During the Inspection?
During a safety inspection, a certified technician will check several key components of your vehicle. Here’s what they’ll review:
- Brakes – Pads, rotors, and brake lines are checked for wear and responsiveness.
- Suspension – The inspector will look at your shocks, struts, and ball joints.
- Lights & Signals – All exterior lights must function, including brake and turn signals.
- Tires – They’ll check for tread depth, sidewall damage, and matching sizes.
- Seat Belts – Each belt must lock, retract, and show no signs of damage.
- Steering – Your steering column and linkages must be solid and responsive.
- Horn & Mirrors – Both must be operational and securely mounted.
- Rust, Corrosion & Frame – Any significant frame damage or corrosion could mean an automatic fail.
Craftsman Collision specializes in repairing many of these issues, including rust, frame damage, and glass replacement. Learn more about our services.
What Can Slow Down the Inspection Process?
Certain factors can delay your inspection or lead to a fail that requires additional time for repairs. Here are a few common reasons:
Significant Rust or Frame Damage
Corrosion on structural areas, like floorboards or rocker panels, can seriously slow things down. A technician might need to perform a more detailed assessment or refer you to a collision repair shop like ours.
Vehicles with Extensive Collision History
If your vehicle has been in an accident, it might raise red flags for inspectors. Frame straightness, welded panels, or previous repairs may be examined closely.
Issues Found During Pre-Check
If something obvious like a broken light or flat tire is found before the inspection even starts, your vehicle may need quick fixes on the spot, or be turned away for repairs first.
Shops That Are Busy or Understaffed
Especially during high-demand periods, some shops have backlogs. Booking your appointment in advance is always recommended. You can view BCAA’s inspection availability here.
How to Prepare Your Car to Save Time
The best way to keep your inspection fast and smooth is to prepare your car ahead of time. Here’s a simple checklist:
✅ Check all your lights (headlights, brake lights, signals)
✅ Top up windshield washer fluid
✅ Make sure wipers are working properly
✅ Clear out interior clutter
✅ Inspect for visible rust or dents
✅ Make sure tires are properly inflated and have good tread
Addressing small issues like a burned-out bulb or worn wipers before the inspection can make the whole process faster and increase your chances of passing on the first try.
Don’t let minor damage delay your safety. Visit a Craftsman location near you.
Craftsman Collision Can Help After Your Inspection
At Craftsman Collision, we don’t perform inspections, but we’re the go-to shop when your vehicle doesn’t pass.
We help with:
- Frame damage repair
- Rust repair and corrosion removal
- Windshield and auto glass replacement
- Dent, bumper, and fender repair
With ICBC certification and locations throughout BC, we’re ready to help you get your vehicle road-ready again, quickly and professionally.
Failed your safety inspection? Let us help get you back on the road.
