Your Fundamental Inspection Rights
Pennsylvania law establishes clear consumer protections during the vehicle inspection process.
Right to Detailed Written Documentation
Pennsylvania law requires stations to provide detailed, written documentation of ALL defects when your vehicle is rejected—at no charge.
Proper documentation must include:
- Vehicle identification (VIN, license plate, make, model, year)
- Each failed component with specific deficiency details
- Date of inspection and station certification number
- Inspector's signature or identification
Right to Choose Where Repairs Are Performed
You have complete freedom to have repairs performed wherever you choose. The station cannot require you to use their repair services.
Protection Against Repair Coercion
Stations cannot:
- Hold your vehicle or refuse to return keys
- Require you to use their repair services
- Charge excessive fees if you go elsewhere for repairs
- Falsely claim you must return to their station
Right to Re-Inspection at Any Certified Station
You can obtain re-inspection at ANY certified PA station, not just the one that rejected your vehicle.
Filing Complaints Against Inspection Stations
To file a complaint with PennDOT:
- Call 1-800-932-4600
- Submit written complaint through PennDOT website
- Include station name, certification number, date, and specific violations
Additional Consumer Protection Resources
Beyond PennDOT, you can file complaints with:
- PA Attorney General's Bureau of Consumer Protection
- Better Business Bureau
- Small claims court for financial disputes