D.C. Ends Safety Inspection Program for Cars

District of Columbia drivers will have one less inspection to do for their cars starting next month.

The city is dropping its safety inspection program for most private cars under a new law taking effect Oct. 1. Only commercial vehicles, such as taxicabs and buses, will have to pass inspection.

The D.C. Council approved the change this year, saving the city $400,000. City officials say there’s no evidence that the inspections impact traffic safety.

But some safety advocates and city mechanics are questioning the change. They say many people don’t maintain their vehicles appropriately.

Residents will still be required to pass emissions inspections every two years for all cars and trucks, according to federal regulations.