The state of Pennsylvania requires that all non-commercial vehicles be inspected for safety once per year; that all commercial vehicles be inspected for safety semiannually; and that any vehicle that is required to participate on the Emissions I/P program go through an emissions testing when the associated safety inspection is performed. For mechanics seeking an automotive technician job an excellent way to build a resume of valuable skills is to seek out an inspector’s license. Pennsylvania requires two separate licenses for safety and emissions licensing.
Pennsylvania mobile vehicle inspector qualifications
In order to inspect any commercial or non-commercial vehicle for safety in the state of Pennsylvania, an automotive service technician needs to have the following qualifications:
The mechanic must be at last 18 years of age.
The mechanic must have a valid driver’s license for the class of vehicle that they are inspecting. (For example, in order to inspect a commercial vehicle with a gross weight over 25,000 pounds, or a Class A vehicle, the mechanic must hold a valid Class A driver’s license.)
The mechanic must have completed a state-approved certification course, and successfully passed a required written exam.
The mechanic must have passed a physical demonstration exam administered at an approved educational facility under the instruction of a certified automotive instructor.
Inspection certifications are valid for five years. In order to recertify after the certification expires, the mechanic must attend the certification course again within 180 days after expiration date.
In order to inspect any commercial or non-commercial vehicle for emissions in the state of Pennsylvania, an automotive service technician needs to have the following qualifications:
The mechanic must be at least 18 years of age.
The mechanic must possess a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license. This license does not have to be in the class of the vehicle being inspected.
The mechanic must have completed a state-approved emissions training course, and passed the required written exam with a score of at least 80%.
The mechanic must have completed a practical demonstration, either under the supervision of a certified automotive educator, or via computer-based testing offered by the training course.
In order to maintain an emissions certification, a mechanic must attend a refresher course and pass a written exam every two years. Additionally, a mechanic with an emissions inspection license may only inspect vehicles in a licensed inspection station.
If you’re already a certified mechanic and you’re interested in working with YourMechanic, submit an online application for an opportunity to become a mobile mechanic.
