540 CMR 4.08
Licensure of Inspection Stations
(1) General Provisions: Licensing Requirements.
(a) Applications. Application for a license to operate a Class A, B, C, D, E, F and M
inspection station,with any endorsements as appropriate, or other inspection license as may
be issued by the Registrar may be filed with the Registrar by a person engaged in the business
of servicing, maintaining or repairing motor vehicles or their components.
1 . An applicant for a Class M inspection station license must be a Motorcycle Dealer
licensed pursuant to M.G.L. c. 140, § 58 or a motorcycle repairman who possesses a
license required by law to carry on a repair business and who has received factory
training or equivalent training as required by the Registrar.
2. An applicant for a Class B, C, D or E inspection station license must be a dealer, or
in the repair business, of medium and/or heavy duty vehicles.
3. Selection Criteria. Once the Inspection Station Network is at capacity, as determined
by the Registrar, stations wishing to become licensed shall be placed on a waiting list
established and maintained by the Registrar. Applicants shall be selected for licensure
from any such list as established by the Registrar as Inspection Station Network capacity
warrants. Applicants shall first be selected from the list for licensure in accordance with
a determination of geographic need as determined by the Registrar in the exercise of the
Registrar's sole discretion.
Inspection Station Network geographic need shall be evaluated on the basis of criteria
including, but not limited to, factors such as the density of the population of motor
vehicle owners in a geographic area and the distance between existing Licensed
Inspection Stations as measured by either or both miles and travel time. If Inspection
Station Network geographic needs are determined to be adequately met by the Registrar,
then Inspection Station Licenses shall be issued in accordance with placement on a
waiting list of applicants for Inspection Station Licenses compiled in chronological order
by date of submission of application for licensure.
(b) Information Required. Each application for licensure shall contain such information as
the Registrar shall require on the application form and be accompanied by a business
certificate issued to the applicant by the city or town in which the premises is located and any
other documents so determined by the Registrar.
(c) Application and License Fees. A nonrefundable application fee of $50.00 made payable
by cash, certified check or money order to the Registry of Motor Vehicles shall accompany
each application. When an application is approved by the Registrar, and upon the payment
of an additional fee of $100.00, the applicant shall be granted a license which shall be valid
for a period of one year from the date of issuance. The annual renewal fee shall be
determined by the Secretary of Administration and Finance. An applicant applying for a
license at more than one location will be required to file a separate application for each
location.
(d) Transactions.
1. Change of Location. A licensee may request a change of business location and such
change may be authorized, provided it complies with all rules, regulations and policies
of the Registrar. All change of location requests shall be approved at the discretion of
the Registrar.
2. Ownership/Interest Change - Licenses Are Not Transferable. A licensee may request
to change the ownership or interest of their current license, provided that the licensed
business remain in its current location or is relocated to an underserviced area and
complies with all rules, regulations and policies of the Registrar. All ownership/interests
change requests shall be approved at the discretion of the Registrar.
3. Name Change. A licensee may request a change in name, provided there is no
change in corporate structure and provided it complies with all rules, regulations and
policies of the Registrar. All name changes shall be approved at the discretion of the
Registrar.
4. Inspection Bay Change. A licensee may request an inspection bay change or
alteration of an existing inspection bay, provided the new or altered bay complies with
all rules, regulations and policies of the Registrar. All inspection bay changes or
alterations shall be approved at the discretion of the Registrar.
5. License Class Change. A licensee may request a license class change, provided the
licensee complies with all rules, regulations and policies of the Registrar for the class of
license to which the station is applying. All license class changes shall be approved at
the discretion of the Registrar.
To request a change to any portion or function of the current approved licensed business
which may include, but is not limited to, a change of location, change of ownership or
interest in the business, change of name, or change in facility including the inspection bay(s),
an application must be filed. The Registrar must be notified immediately by the licensee in
the event that arrangements are made for the transfer of the business to another person. Upon
the transfer of ownership or termination of the business, the station license, all unused
Certificates of Inspection, Rejection, and records required to be kept in accordance with the
provisions of 540 CMR 4.00 shall be surrendered and returned to the Registry of Motor
Vehicles forthwith. Unused Certificates of Inspection will be rebated.
(e) Certificate of License and Display Requirements. The licensee shall conspicuously
display the numbered Class license issued by the Registrar in an area that is reserved for
inspection purposes. In case of loss, mutilation or destruction of the license, the Registrar
shall issue a duplicate license upon proper proof thereof and payment of a fee of $25.00.
Inspection Station Network geographic need shall be evaluated on the basis of criteria
including, but not limited to, factors such as the density of the population of motor
vehicle owners in a geographic area and the distance between existing Licensed
Inspection Stations as measured by either or both miles and travel time. If Inspection
Station Network geographic needs are determined to be adequately met by the Registrar,
then Inspection Station Licenses shall be issued in accordance with placement on a
waiting list of applicants for Inspection Station Licenses compiled in chronological order
by date of submission of application for licensure.
(b) Information Required. Each application for licensure shall contain such information as
the Registrar shall require on the application form and be accompanied by a business
certificate issued to the applicant by the city or town in which the premises is located and any
other documents so determined by the Registrar.
(c) Application and License Fees. A nonrefundable application fee of$50.00 made payable
by cash, certified check or money order to the Registry of Motor Vehicles shall accompany
each application. When an application is approved by the Registrar, and upon the payment
of an additional fee of$100.00, the applicant shall be granted a license which shall be valid
for a period of one year from the date of issuance. The annual renewal fee shall be
determined by the Secretary of Administration and Finance. An applicant applying for a
license at more than one location will be required to file a separate application for each
location.
(d) Transactions.
1 . Change of Location. A licensee may request a change of business location and such
change may be authorized, provided it complies with all rules, regulations and policies
of the Registrar. All change of location requests shall be approved at the discretion of
the Registrar.
2. Ownership/Interest Change - Licenses Are Not Transferable. A licensee may request
to change the ownership or interest of their current license, provided that the licensed
business remain in its current location or is relocated to an underserviced area and
complies with all rules, regulations and policies of the Registrar. All ownership/interests
change requests shall be approved at the discretion of the Registrar.
3. Name Change. A licensee may request a change in name, provided there is no
change in corporate structure and provided it complies with all rules, regulations and
policies of the Registrar. All name changes shall be approved at the discretion of the
Registrar.
Inspection Bay Change. A licensee may request an inspection bay change or
alteration of an existing inspection bay, provided the new or altered bay complies with
all rules, regulations and policies of the Registrar. All inspection bay changes or
alterations shall be approved at the discretion of the Registrar.
5. License Class Change. A licensee may request a license class change, provided the
licensee complies with all rules, regulations and policies of the Registrar for the class of
license to which the station is applying. All license class changes shall be approved at
the discretion of the Registrar.
To request a change to any portion or function of the current approved licensed business
which may include, but is not limited to, a change of location, change of ownership or
interest in the business, change of name, or change in facility including the inspection bay(s),
an application must be filed. The Registrar must be notified immediately by the licensee in
the event that arrangements are made for the transfer of the business to another person. Upon
the transfer of ownership or termination of the business, the station license, all unused
Certificates of Inspection, Rejection, and records required to be kept in accordance with the
provisions of 540 CMR 4.00 shall be surrendered and returned to the Registry of Motor
Vehicles forthwith. Unused Certificates of Inspection will be rebated.
(e) Certificate of License and Display Requirements. The licensee shall conspicuously
display the numbered Class license issued by the Registrar in an area that is reserved for
inspection purposes. In case of loss, mutilation or destruction of the license, the Registrar
shall issue a duplicate license upon proper proof thereof and payment of a fee of $25.00.
(f) Requirements to Purchase and Security of Certificates of Inspection. Each licensee
shall maintain adequate security, acceptable to the Registrar, which will prevent the
misappropriation of Certificates of Inspection or Rejection. Missing or stolen Certificates
of Inspection or Rejection must be reported forthwith to the Registry of Motor Vehicles and
local law enforcement.
(g) Supplies. Each licensee shall maintain, if required, an adequate supply of Certificates
of Inspection, test authorizations, if required, and sticker stock to assure that motorists will
not be denied inspections, or unnecessarily inconvenienced. Said documents shall be
purchased from the Registry of Motor Vehicles or its designated agent in accordance with
the applicable policies established by the Registrar and may not be sold or transferred from
one station to another.
(h) Requirements for Personnel Who Administer Inspections. Inspections must be
performed by the licensee or permanent employees of the licensee who are in possession of
a valid motor vehicle operator license. A person who performs vehicle inspections shall be
licensed by the Registrar. That license shall be renewed annually. A permanent employee
shall, for purposes of 540 CMR 4.00, be defined as a person regularly employed by the
licensed inspection station. Persons performing inspections must be able to demonstrate
their proficiency in inspecting motor vehicles and in operating, calibrating, and maintaining
items or equipment required for the inspection of motor vehicles, to personnel authorized by
the Registrar, the Massachusetts Commissioner of the Department of Environmental
Protection assigned to program administration and enforcement and the Network Contractor.
Any person conducting a Class M inspection must provide proof that he has received factory
training and training approved by the Registrar. The inspector must have a valid motorcycle
license.
(i) Requirements for Personnel Who Administer Noncommercial Motor Vehicle
Inspections. It shall be the licensed vehicle inspection station's or the mobile commercial
motor vehicle inspector's responsibility to ensure that the individual(s) performing an annual
inspection as contained herein are qualified as follows:
1. Has successfully completed a state certified training program approved by the
Registrar;
2. Understands the inspection criteria set forth in 540 CMR 4.00 and can identify
defective components;
3. Is knowledgeable of and has mastered the methods, procedures, tools and equipment
used when performing an inspection; and
4. All Motor Vehicle Inspectors shall participate in training and be subject to testing as
determined by the Registrar. The license shall be renewed annually.
(j) Requirements for Personnel Who Administer Commercial Motor Vehicle Inspections.
It shall be the licensed commercial motor vehicle inspection station's or the mobile
Commercial Motor Vehicle Inspector's responsibility to ensure that the individual(s)
performing an annual inspection as contained herein are qualified as follows:
1. Has successfully completed a state certified training program approved by the
Registrar;
2. Understands the inspection criteria set forth in 540 CMR 4.00, 49 CFR Part 393 and
Appendix G to Part 396 and can identify defective components;
3. Is knowledgeable of and has mastered the methods, procedures, tools and equipment
used when performing an inspection; and
4. Is capable of performing an inspection by reason of experience, training, or both as
follows:
a. Successfully completed a State or Federal sponsored training program or has a
certificate from a State or Canadian Province which qualifies the person to perform
commercial motor vehicle safety inspections, or
b. Have a combination of training and/or experience totaling at least one year. Such
training and/or experience may consist of:
i. Participation in a truck manufacturer-sponsored training program or similar
commercial training program designed to train students in truck operation and
maintenance;
ii. Experience as a mechanic or inspector in a motor carrier commercial motor
vehicle maintenance program;
(f) Requirements to Purchase and Security of Certificates of Inspection. Each licensee
shall maintain adequate security, acceptable to the Registrar, which will prevent the
misappropriation of Certificates of Inspection or Rejection. Missing or stolen Certificates
of Inspection or Rejection must be reported forthwith to the Registry of Motor Vehicles and
local law enforcement.
(g) Supplies. Each licensee shall maintain, if required, an adequate supply of Certificates
of Inspection, test authorizations, if required, and sticker stock to assure that motorists will
not be denied inspections, or unnecessarily inconvenienced. Said documents shall be
purchased from the Registry of Motor Vehicles or its designated agent in accordance with
the applicable policies established by the Registrar and may not be sold or transferred from
one station to another.
(h)
Requirements for Personnel Who Administer Inspections. Inspections must be
performed by the licensee or permanent employees of the licensee who are in possession of
a valid motor vehicle operator license. A person who performs vehicle inspections shall be
licensed by the Registrar. That license shall be renewed annually. A permanent employee
shall, for purposes of 540 CMR 4.00, be defined as a person regularly employed by the
licensed inspection station. Persons performing inspections must be able to demonstrate
their proficiency in inspecting motor vehicles and in operating, calibrating, and maintaining
items or equipment required for the inspection of motor vehicles, to personnel authorized by
the Registrar, the Massachusetts Commissioner of the Department of Environmental
Protection assigned to program administration and enforcement and the Network Contractor.
Any person conducting a Class M inspection must provide proof that he has received factory
training and training approved by the Registrar. The inspector must have a valid motorcycle
license.
(i)
Requirements for Personnel Who Administer Noncommercial Motor Vehicle
Inspections. It shall be the licensed vehicle inspection station's or the mobile commercial
motor vehicle inspector's responsibility to ensure that the individual(s) performing an annual
inspection as contained herein are qualified as follows:
1 .
Has successfully completed a state certified training program approved by the
Registrar;
Understands the inspection criteria set forth in 540 CMR 4.00 and can identify
defective components;
3. Is knowledgeable of and has mastered the methods, procedures, tools and equipment
used when performing an inspection; and
4. All Motor Vehicle Inspectors shall participate in training and be subject to testing as
determined by the Registrar. The license shall be renewed annually.
(j) Requirements for Personnel Who Administer Commercial Motor Vehicle Inspections.
It shall be the licensed commercial motor vehicle inspection station's or the mobile
Commercial Motor Vehicle Inspector's responsibility to ensure that the individual(s)
performing an annual inspection as contained herein are qualified as follows:
1 .
Has successfully completed a state certified training program approved by the
Registrar;
2. Understands the inspection criteria set forth in 540 CMR 4.00, 49 CFR Part 393 and
Appendix G to Part 396 and can identify defective components;
3. Is knowledgeable of and has mastered the methods, procedures, tools and equipment
used when performing an inspection; and
4. Is capable of performing an inspection by reason of experience, training, or both as
follows:
a. Successfully completed a State or Federal sponsored training program or has a
certificate from a State or Canadian Province which qualifies the person to perform
commercial motor vehicle safety inspections, or
b. Have a combination of training and/or experience totaling at least one year. Such
training and/or experience may consist of:
i. Participation in a truck manufacturer-sponsored training program or similar
commercial training program designed to train students in truck operation and
maintenance;
ii. Experience as a mechanic or inspector in a motor carrier commercial motor
vehicle maintenance program;
iii. Experience as a mechanic or inspector in commercial motor vehicle
maintenance at a commercial garage, fleet leasing company or similar facility; or
iv. Experience as a Commercial Vehicle Inspector for a State, Provincial or
Federal Government agency.
5. All Commercial Motor Vehicle Inspectors shall participate in training and subject to
testing as determined by the Registrar. The license shall be renewed annually.
6. Availability of Premises and Records to Authorized Personnel. All licensees shall
record and retain records pertaining to the inspection performed in accordance with the
policies and procedures established by the Registrar. Facilities, records, and equipment
shall, during normal business hours (defined as Monday through Friday 9:00 A.M.
through 5:00 P.M. exclusive of holidays), be available at the address recorded on the
Class A, B, C, D, E, F or M license (with any additional endorsements) to enforcement
personnel of the Registry of Motor Vehicles, and/or Department of Environmental
Protection and the Network Contractor.
7. Licensees will follow all applicable laws and all rules, regulations, policies and
procedures of the Registrar. The Registrar retains the exclusive right to establish and
amend all such rules, regulations, policies and procedures; and Licensees shall follow all
applicable rules, regulations, policies and procedures of the Massachusetts Department
of Revenue (DOR).
8. The Registrar may deny the application of any person for a license, if, in their
discretion, they determine that:
a. Such applicant has made a material false statement or concealed a material fact
in connection with their application.
b. Such applicant, any officer, director, stockholder or partner, or any other person
directly or indirectly having an interest in the business was the former holder, or was
an officer, director, stockholder or partner, in a corporation or partnership which was
the former holder of an inspection station license which was revoked or suspended
by the Registrar.
c. Such applicant has failed to furnish satisfactory evidence of good character,
reputation and fitness.
d. Such applicant is not the true owner of the inspection facility.
(2) Facility, Equipment, and Inspection Station Requirements.
(a) Inspector on Premises. There shall be a licensed inspector on-site during all posted
inspection times that is able to perform all inspections authorized within the station class.
(b) Promotions. No licensed inspection facility may advertise the Massachusetts vehicle
safety and emissions inspection program in conjunction with any offer, promotion or
discount of any product, service or commodity to any Customer. Nothing in the preceding
sentence shall prohibit a licensed inspection facility from including in any advertisement that
it is a licensed inspection facility.
(c) Hours of Operation. Inspection Stations shall be available to perform motor vehicle
inspections for a minimum of six hours per day, five days per week. Inspections must be
performed on a first come-first serve basis. Stations that use the approved inspection area
for other purposes must make the area available for inspections within 15 minutes. Requests
to alter posted hours of inspection must be submitted in writing to the Registrar and is
reviewed and approved at the discretion of the Registrar. Inspections performed by
appointment are prohibited during unposted hours of inspection. Inspection station licenses
that have been inactive or locked-out due to an ownership change, location change, facility
alteration or administrative action shall be granted six months in order to reopen and be
available to perform inspections. At the conclusion of the six months, the inspection station
shall be deemed out-of-business and the station license retired. However, the Registrar may
grant extensions beyond the six months on a case by case basis. Such requests must be made
in writing.
(d) Signs. The facilities of public station licensees should be available for the convenience
of the public. Public station licensees shall conspicuously post and display identification as
a "Massachusetts Inspection Station" on a sign not less than 24 inches by 36 inches,
including the station's license number and the regular hours of inspection. Hours of
inspection may be posted on a separate sign. All stations performing Commercial Motor
Experience as a mechanic or inspector in commercial motor vehicle
maintenance at a commercial garage, fleet leasing company or similar facility; or
iv. Experience as a Commercial Vehicle Inspector for a State, Provincial or
Federal Government agency.
5. All Commercial Motor Vehicle Inspectors shall participate in training and subject to
testing as determined by the Registrar. The license shall be renewed annually.
6. Availability of Premises and Records to Authorized Personnel. All licensees shall
record and retain records pertaining to the inspection performed in accordance with the
policies and procedures established by the Registrar. Facilities, records, and equipment
shall, during normal business hours (defined as Monday through Friday 9:00 A.M.
through 5 :00 P.M. exclusive of holidays), be available at the address recorded on the
Class A, B, C, D, E, F or M license (with any additional endorsements) to enforcement
personnel of the Registry of Motor Vehicles, and/or Department of Environmental
Protection and the Network Contractor.
Licensees will follow all applicable laws and all rules, regulations, policies and
procedures of the Registrar. The Registrar retains the exclusive right to establish and
amend all such rules, regulations, policies and procedures; and Licensees shall follow all
applicable rules, regulations, policies and procedures of the Massachusetts Department
of Revenue (DOR).
The Registrar may deny the application of any person for a license, if, in their
discretion, they determine that:
a. Such applicant has made a material false statement or concealed a material fact
in connection with their application.
b. Such applicant, any officer, director, stockholder or partner, or any other person
directly or indirectly having an interest in the business was the former holder, or was
an officer, director, stockholder or partner, in a corporation or partnership which was
the former holder of an inspection station license which was revoked or suspended
by the Registrar.
c.
Such applicant has failed to furnish satisfactory evidence of good character,
reputation and fitness.
d. Such applicant is not the true owner of the inspection facility.
(2) Facility, Equipment, and Inspection Station Requirements.
(a) Inspector on Premises. There shall be a licensed inspector on-site during all posted
inspection times that is able to perform all inspections authorized within the station class.
(b) Promotions. No licensed inspection facility may advertise the Massachusetts vehicle
safety and emissions inspection program in conjunction with any offer, promotion or
discount of any product, service or commodity to any Customer. Nothing in the preceding
sentence shall prohibit a licensed inspection facility from including in any advertisement that
it is a licensed inspection facility.
(c) Hours of Operation. Inspection Stations shall be available to perform motor vehicle
inspections for a minimum of six hours per day, five days per week. Inspections must be
performed on a first come-first serve basis. Stations that use the approved inspection area
for other purposes must make the area available for inspections within 15 minutes. Requests
to alter posted hours of inspection must be submitted in writing to the Registrar and is
reviewed and approved at the discretion of the Registrar. Inspections performed by
appointment are prohibited during unposted hours of inspection. Inspection station licenses
that have been inactive or locked-out due to an ownership change, location change, facility
alteration or administrative action shall be granted six months in order to reopen and be
available to perform inspections. At the conclusion of the six months, the inspection station
shall be deemed out-of-business and the station license retired. However, the Registrar may
grant extensions beyond the six months on a case by case basis. Such requests must be made
in writing.
(d) Signs. The facilities of public station licensees should be available for the convenience
of the public. Public station licensees shall conspicuously post and display identification as
a "Massachusetts Inspection Station" on a sign not less than 24 inches by 36 inches,
including the station's license number and the regular hours of inspection. Hours of
inspection may be posted on a separate sign. All stations performing Commercial Motor
Vehicle Inspections must post their commercial motor vehicle inspection labor rate. Such
signs must be removed or covered whenever inspections cannot be performed during the
posted hours.
(e) Facility.
1. Inspection facilities shall be located in a building appropriate for such activity,
complies with local zoning laws with a suitable customer waiting area within the
inspection business, and meets all relevant guidelines of the Registrar.
2. Licensees must maintain complete control of the entire physical location where the
inspection facility is located. Multiple business interests in the same location of a
licensed inspection facility is prohibited.
3. Licensees that lease or own space in a facility which physically adjoins another
legally separate and distinct business must maintain a complete separation and entrance
and be able to secure the premises from access by any personnel of the adjoining
business.
(f) Inspection Area. A specific unobstructed area approved by the Registrar within which
the complete motor vehicle inspection shall be performed, must be enclosed in a building in
the primary service facility of the licensees' premises. The inspection area of all Classes of
inspection stations except Class M, must be at least 30 feet in length and 12 feet in width,
and said inspection area must exceed by five feet in width the width of the widest vehicle
inspected. The inspection area for Class M inspections shall be 30 feet or less in length, or
as determined by the Registrar. Exceptions to these standards may be provided by the
Registrar or their designee in their sole discretion. All inspection stations first licensed on
or after October 1, 2008 shall meet the new inspection bay size requirements. All inspection
stations licensed before October 1, 2008 shall be required to meet the bay size requirements
in effect at the time of licensure. Designated areas shall be suitably marked or otherwise
outlined and include a smooth, level, substantial floor on which the wheels of the vehicle will
stand evenly while being inspected and must be maintained in a neat manner. The Registrar,
in their sole discretion, may also approve an additional specifically designated area on the
licensees' premises convenient to the approved inspection bay to be used for the inspection
of vehicles and/or trailers and converter dollies. Any modification of the inspection area or
approved additional area must be approved by the Registrar. Any business operating at the
same location that is not owned entirely by the licensee must be securely and permanently
separated from the inspection bay.
(g) Equipment Required.
1. General Requirements. All inspection station licensees must possess the necessary
tools and equipment, and shall maintain same in good working order, and shall possess
facilities necessary for the ordinary repair and adjustment of motor vehicles or
components on which inspection is required. In addition to the preceding, licensees must
be equipped with the following equipment that has been approved by the Registrar,
applicable to the particular Class license as noted.
a. Headlamp aiming screen or device as approved by the Registrar for Class A, B,
C, D, E, F and M licenses.
b. Dial indicator gauge. All Classes except Class M.
c. Registry approved brake meter. All Classes except Class M.
d. Tire tread depth gauge, marked in 32nds of an inch. All Classes.
e. Jack of sufficient capacity to lift the front axle of the heaviest vehicle inspected.
All Classes.
f. Two jack stands; with a minimum rated capacity capable of holding the vehicle
to be inspected. All Classes except Class M.
g. Inspector workstation equipment. All Classes.
h. Registry of Motor Vehicles Inspection Manual. All Classes.
i. Registry approved 48-inch long headlamp aiming stick, unless approved
mechanical headlamp aiming device is used.
j. Registry approved tint meter for glass. All Classes except Class M and fleet
stations.
k. Air, power and phone lines or communication link to operate the inspection
equipment properly.
l. A commercial motor vehicle inspection station is required to have a current copy
of FMCSR Parts 390 to 397 and Appendix G available for inspector use.
2. Fleet Inspection Stations. Licensees are limited to the inspection of motor vehicles
owned or maintained by the licensee or other fleets.
Vehicle Inspections must post their commercial motor vehicle inspection labor rate. Such
signs must be removed or covered whenever inspections cannot be performed during the
posted hours.
(e) Facility.
1 . Inspection facilities shall be located in a building appropriate for such activity,
complies with local zoning laws with a suitable customer waiting area within the
inspection business, and meets all relevant guidelines of the Registrar.
2. Licensees must maintain complete control of the entire physical location where the
inspection facility is located. Multiple business interests in the same location of a
licensed inspection facility is prohibited.
3. Licensees that lease or own space in a facility which physically adjoins another
legally separate and distinct business must maintain a complete separation and entrance
and be able to secure the premises from access by any personnel of the adjoining
business.
(f) Inspection Area. A specific unobstructed area approved by the Registrar within which
the complete motor vehicle inspection shall be performed, must be enclosed in a building in
the primary service facility of the licensees' premises. The inspection area of all Classes of
inspection stations except Class M, must be at least 30 feet in length and 12 feet in width,
and said inspection area must exceed by five feet in width the width of the widest vehicle
inspected. The inspection area for Class M inspections shall be 30 feet or less in length, or
as determined by the Registrar. Exceptions to these standards may be provided by the
Registrar or their designee in their sole discretion. All inspection stations first licensed on
or after October 1, 2008 shall meet the new inspection bay size requirements. All inspection
stations licensed before October 1, 2008 shall be required to meet the bay size requirements
in effect at the time of licensure. Designated areas shall be suitably marked or otherwise
outlined and include a smooth, level, substantial floor on which the wheels of the vehicle will
stand evenly while being inspected and must be maintained in a neat manner. The Registrar,
in their sole discretion, may also approve an additional specifically designated area on the
licensees' premises convenient to the approved inspection bay to be used for the inspection
of vehicles and/or trailers and converter dollies. Any modification of the inspection area or
approved additional area must be approved by the Registrar. Any business operating at the
same location that is not owned entirely by the licensee must be securely and permanently
separated from the inspection bay.
(g) Equipment Required.
1 . General Requirements. All inspection station licensees must possess the necessary
tools and equipment, and shall maintain same in good working order, and shall possess
facilities necessary for the ordinary repair and adjustment of motor vehicles or
components on which inspection is required. In addition to the preceding, licensees must
be equipped with the following equipment that has been approved by the Registrar,
applicable to the particular Class license as noted.
a. Headlamp aiming screen or device as approved by the Registrar for Class A, B,
C, D, E, F and M licenses.
b. Dial indicator gauge. All Classes except Class M.
c. Registry approved brake meter. All Classes except Class M.
d. Tire tread depth gauge, marked in 32Z[ of an inch. All Classes.
e. Jack of sufficient capacity to lift the front axle of the heaviest vehicle inspected.
All Classes.
f. Two jack stands; with a minimum rated capacity capable of holding the vehicle
to be inspected. All Classes except Class M.
g. Inspector workstation equipment. All Classes.
h. Registry of Motor Vehicles Inspection Manual. All Classes.
i.
Registry approved 48-inch long headlamp aiming stick, unless approved
mechanical headlamp aiming device is used.
j. Registry approved tint meter for glass. All Classes except Class M and fleet
stations.
k.
Air, power and phone lines or communication link to operate the inspection
equipment properly.
1. A commercial motor vehicle inspection station is required to have a current copy
of FMCSR Parts 390 to 397 and Appendix G available for inspector use.
2. Fleet Inspection Stations. Licensees are limited to the inspection of motor vehicles
owned or maintained by the licensee or other fleets.
3. Inspection Area. The licensed fleet inspection station must provide a specific area
within which the complete inspection shall be performed except where additional testing
is required for brakes. The area must be in a building, enclosing an area at least 30 feet
in length and 12 feet in width and said inspection area must exceed by five feet in width
the width of the widest vehicle inspected, except as otherwise approved ore October 1,
2008 shall be required to meet the bay size requirements in effect at the time of licensure.
The designated area shall be suitably marked or otherwise outlined and include a smooth,
substantial level floor on which all the wheels of the longest vehicle inspected will stand
evenly while being inspected. Additional adequate space must be available within the
building for repairing and maintaining motor vehicles.
4. Public Commercial Motor Vehicle Inspection Facility. Class C, D and E and
facilities utilizing services of Class F licensees using mobile equipment. A commercial
motor vehicle inspection station shall have a specific area approved by the Registrar
within which the complete inspection of all commercial motor vehicles so defined shall
be performed. The area shall be a suitably marked, smooth, level, unobstructed concrete
flooring. The dimensions of a public commercial motor vehicle inspection facility shall
at a minimum be: a length ten feet longer than the longest single or combination
commercial motor vehicle to be inspected, with a minimum of at least 45 feet in length
and a minimum of at least 14 feet in width. All axles of any single or combination
commercial motor vehicle inspected must be on the same flat, level flooring. The area
shall be equipped to provide regulated air supply of sufficient pressure and electrical
power to any non-self powered commercial motor vehicle which in combination cannot
be accommodated in the designated area. The designated area shall be enclosed in a
building having an entrance door of no less than 12 feet in width and 12 feet in height or
as approved by the Registrar. All public commercial motor vehicle inspection facilities
first licensed on or after October 1, 2008 shall meet the new inspection bay size
requirements. All inspection stations licensed before October 1, 2008 shall be required
to meet the bay size requirements in effect at the time of licensure.
(3) Revocation, Suspension or Denial of Licenses.
(a) The Registrar may, after the applicant, licensee or person licensed by the Registrar to
perform safety inspections has been granted a hearing held at such time and place as the
Registrar may prescribe and duly notice to the licensee, refuse to issue a license, suspend or
revoke a license or refuse to issue the renewal of a license for any of the following causes:
1. Failure to comply with any of the rules and regulations or the written policies and
procedures of the Registrar or Commissioner pertaining to license Class A, B, C, D, E,
F and M inspection stations.
2. Failure to inspect vehicles during posted inspection hours.
3. Failure to have on hand at all times an adequate supply of Certificates of Inspection.
4. Failure to maintain that portion of premises utilized as an inspection area in a proper
manner.
5. Failure to properly maintain equipment utilized in inspections procedures.
6. Engaging in fraudulent practices or conduct during the inspection of motor vehicles
or related to the vehicle inspection license process.
7. The issuance of a Certificate of Inspection or Certificate of Rejection without
performing the required emissions test, if applicable.
8. For any action deemed by the Registrar or Commissioner of the Department of
Environmental Protection to violate the terms and public purpose of the vehicle
inspection program.
(b) Mailing, by first class mail, postage prepaid, of a notice of a hearing to the last known
address of a licensee or applicant, 14 days prior to the date of the hearing, shall be deemed
proper notice.
(c) Second, third, and subsequent infractions shall be infractions committed within the three
years immediately preceding the date of the infraction for which the Registrar orders another
suspension or revocation. The total number of prior infractions, in any combination, shall
determine if a second or subsequent offense exists.
3. Inspection Area. The licensed fleet inspection station must provide a specific area
within which the complete inspection shall be performed except where additional testing
is required for brakes. The area must be in a building, enclosing an area at least 30 feet
in length and 12 feet in width and said inspection area must exceed by five feet in width
the width of the widest vehicle inspected, except as otherwise approved ore October 1,
2008 shall be required to meet the bay size requirements in effect at the time oflicensure.
The designated area shall be suitably marked or otherwise outlined and include a smooth,
substantial level floor on which all the wheels of the longest vehicle inspected will stand
evenly while being inspected. Additional adequate space must be available within the
building for repairing and maintaining motor vehicles.
Public Commercial Motor Vehicle Inspection Facility. Class C, D and E and
facilities utilizing services of Class F licensees using mobile equipment. A commercial
motor vehicle inspection station shall have a specific area approved by the Registrar
within which the complete inspection of all commercial motor vehicles so defined shall
be performed. The area shall be a suitably marked, smooth, level, unobstructed concrete
flooring. The dimensions of a public commercial motor vehicle inspection facility shall
at a minimum be: a length ten feet longer than the longest single or combination
commercial motor vehicle to be inspected, with a minimum of at least 45 feet in length
and a minimum of at least 14 feet in width. All axles of any single or combination
commercial motor vehicle inspected must be on the same flat, level flooring. The area
shall be equipped to provide regulated air supply of sufficient pressure and electrical
power to any non-self powered commercial motor vehicle which in combination cannot
be accommodated in the designated area. The designated area shall be enclosed in a
building having an entrance door of no less than 12 feet in width and 12 feet in height or
as approved by the Registrar. All public commercial motor vehicle inspection facilities
first licensed on or after October 1, 2008 shall meet the new inspection bay size
requirements. All inspection stations licensed before October 1, 2008 shall be required
to meet the bay size requirements in effect at the time of licensure.
(3) Revocation, Suspension or Denial of Licenses.
(a) The Registrar may, after the applicant, licensee or person licensed by the Registrar to
perform safety inspections has been granted a hearing held at such time and place as the
Registrar may prescribe and duly notice to the licensee, refuse to issue a license, suspend or
revoke a license or refuse to issue the renewal of a license for any of the following causes:
1 . Failure to comply with any of the rules and regulations or the written policies and
procedures of the Registrar or Commissioner pertaining to license Class A, B, C, D, E,
F and M inspection stations.
2. Failure to inspect vehicles during posted inspection hours.
3. Failure to have on hand at all times an adequate supply of Certificates of Inspection.
4. Failure to maintain that portion of premises utilized as an inspection area in a proper
manner.
5 . Failure to properly maintain equipment utilized in inspections procedures.
6. Engaging in fraudulent practices or conduct during the inspection of motor vehicles
or related to the vehicle inspection license process.
The issuance of a Certificate of Inspection or Certificate of Rejection without
performing the required emissions test, if applicable.
For any action deemed by the Registrar or Commissioner of the Department of
Environmental Protection to violate the terms and public purpose of the vehicle
inspection program.
(b) Mailing, by first class mail, postage prepaid, of a notice of a hearing to the last known
address of a licensee or applicant, 14 days prior to the date of the hearing, shall be deemed
proper notice.
(c) Second, third, and subsequent infractions shall be infractions committed within the three
years immediately preceding the date of the infraction for which the Registrar orders another
suspension or revocation. The total number of prior infractions, in any combination, shall
determine if a second or subsequent offense exists.
(d) If the licensee appeals the Registrar's decision to revoke or suspend a license, the
Registrar, upon a timely request, may allow the suspension or revocation to be stayed
pending a hearing before the Motor Vehicle Board of Appeal on Motor Vehicle Liability,
Policies and Bonds if said suspension is not based upon activity which would constitute a
threat to the public safety.
(e) The Registry shall suspend the license of an inspector or a station for a minimum of 180
days for intentionally improperly passing a motor vehicle for the emissions test required
pursuant to 310 CMR 60.02. A second or subsequent violation within three years shall
result in a license revocation.
(f) Suspensions or revocations of the license of any Class A, B, C, D, E, F and M inspection
station, in addition to that identified in 540 CMR 4.08(3)(e), shall be in accordance with the
following chart:
SUSPENSION PERIODS FOR VIOLATIONS OF INSPECTION
PROCEDURE REQUIREMENTS
(Certificates of Inspection, as used herein, includes Certificates of Rejection)
Type of Offense
1st
Infraction
2nd
Infraction
3rd or Subsequent
Infraction
Failure to maintain inspection bay in proper manner.
Up to 60
Days
Up to 120
Days
Up to
240 Days Revoke
Failure to maintain adequate supply of Certificates
of Inspection or Rejection.
Failure to maintain adequate security of Certificates
of Inspection and test authorizations.
Failure to properly keep required records or properly
enter required data.
Failure to charge the established inspection fee.
Failure to comply with any provisions of 540 CMR
4.00 or the Registrar’s written policies or procedures
relating thereto not otherwise specified herein.
Unauthorized person performing inspection.
Failure to adhere to the Registrar’s written policies
and procedures.
Failure to apply Certificates of Inspection, or
Rejection to vehicle as required.
Up to 60
Days
Up to
120 Days
Up to
180 Days Revoke
Issuing Certificates of Inspection without performing
a complete inspection.
Failure to perform complete inspection in designated
inspection bay.
Failure to have on-hand required equipment in
proper working condition.
Suggesting or requiring that unnecessary repairs or
adjustments be made in order for vehicle to pass
inspection.
Up to 280
Days
Up to 360
Days
Up to
540 Days Revoke
Falsification or alteration of recorded data pertaining
to inspection.
Fraudulent practices.
Licensee or employee performing inspections while
under the influence of liquor or drugs.
Revoke
Revoke
Revoke
Revoke
(d)
If the licensee appeals the Registrar's decision to revoke or suspend a license, the
Registrar, upon a timely request, may allow the suspension or revocation to be stayed
pending a hearing before the Motor Vehicle Board of Appeal on Motor Vehicle Liability,
Policies and Bonds if said suspension is not based upon activity which would constitute a
threat to the public safety.
(e) The Registry shall suspend the license of an inspector or a station for a minimum of 180
days for intentionally improperly passing a motor vehicle for the emissions test required
pursuant to 310 CMR 60.02. A second or subsequent violation within three years shall
result in a license revocation.
(f) Suspensions or revocations of the license ofany Class A, B, C, D, E, F and M inspection
station, in addition to that identified in 540 CMR 4.08(3)(e), shall be in accordance with the
following chart:
SUSPENSION PERIODS FOR VIOLATIONS OF INSPECTION
PROCEDURE REQUIREMENTS
(Certificates of Inspection, as used herein, includes Certificates of Rejection)
Type of Offense
1 .
Failure to maintain inspection bay in proper manner.
Failure to maintain adequate supply of Certificates
of Inspection or Rejection.
Failure to maintain adequate security of Certificates
of Inspection and test authorizations.
Failure to properly keep required records or properly
enter required data.
Failure to charge the established inspection fee.
Failure to comply with any provisions of 540 CMR
4.00 or the Registrar's written policies or procedures
relating thereto not otherwise specified herein.
Unauthorized person performing inspection.
Failure to adhere to the Registrar's written policies
and procedures.
1 .
Failure to apply Certificates of Inspection, or
Rejection to vehicle as required.
Issuing Certificates of Inspection without performing
a complete inspection.
Failure to perform complete inspection in designated
inspection bay.
Failure to have on-hand required equipment in
proper working condition.
1 .
Suggesting or requiring that unnecessary repairs or
adjustments be made in order for vehicle to pass
inspection.
Falsification or alteration of recorded data pertaining
to inspection.
Fraudulent practices.
1 .
Licensee or employee performing inspections while
under the influence ofliquor or drugs.
1W
Infraction
Up to 60
Days
Up to 60
Days
2X
Infraction
Up to 120
Days
3rd or Subsequent
Infraction
Up to
Revoke
240 Days
Up to
Up to
Revoke
120 Days 180 Days
Up to 280 Up to 360
Up to
Revoke
Days
Days
540 Days
Revoke
Revoke
Revoke
Revoke