Yes, you will need a catalytic converter to pass the vehicle inspection. The exception is only applicable for vehicles that didn’t include a catalytic converter when it was manufactured. So, if your car didn’t come with a catalytic converter then you will pass the inspection. Otherwise, you have to have a catalytic converter.
The catalytic converter is required for a safety inspection as it reduces the toxic elements produced by the exhaust. Thus it keeps the vehicle safe for the environment and doesn’t violate any law of the state or the environmental organizations as well.
Don’t tamper with the catalytic converter as it won’t let you pass the inspection. The inspection officer has a list of items that are going to be checked during the test.

How To Pass Inspection With Catalytic Converter
If your vehicle has a catalytic converter that works fine then there is no problem to pass the inspection.
During the inspection, all the major pieces of equipment will be checked to see if there are any issues with any of the parts.
If there is no check engine light issue or any other major issues then you’re definitely going to pass the inspection test.
Read Also: How To Pass Inspection With Straight Pipe? (The Best Way)
How To Pass Inspection Without Catalytic Converter
Unfortunately, it’s not possible to pass inspection without a catalytic converter. There won’t be any problem passing the inspection if you have a car that never had a catalytic converter.
You may try to bribe the inspection officer to pass the inspection though it’s not recommended and may get you in trouble. You can’t pass without a catalytic converter but it’s possible to find a solution for a damaged or bad cat converter.
Every state follows strict rules for vehicle inspection. So, what is the rule for Catalytic Converters in different Regions in the USA?
South Region
Do You Need A Catalytic Converter To Pass Inspection In Texas?
It’s strictly prohibited to drive a car without Catalytic Converter in Texas. You won’t pass inspection in Texas without a Cat. It’s not good for the environment and makes the exhaust sound louder than usual.
What Happens If Car Fails Catalytic Converter Fails Inspection In Texas?
Don’t worry if your car fails Catalytic Converter Inspection In Texas. You can still avail a re-test for free within the next 15 days of the inspection. Get the item repaired and go for another inspection.
Do You Need A Catalytic Converter To Pass Inspection In North Carolina?
North Carolina state law also requires a Catalytic Converter to pass the vehicle inspection. The law also states that you need to replace or install a new catalytic converter before the inspection if the device is stolen or damaged.
Midwest Region
Do You Need A Catalytic Converter To Pass Inspection In Missouri?
Sure. You should definitely have a Catalytic Converter to pass inspection in Missouri. Apart from the Inspection officer, you can also be fined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as they have the right to take legal action against those who are driving without a catalytic converter as it’s dangerous for the environment.
North-East Region
Do You Need A Catalytic Converter To Pass Inspection In Maine?
Maine mentioned clearly the Catalytic Converter in both the state law and federal law. If you are driving a car with the model year 1983 or newer, then you are required to have a catalytic converter. Otherwise, you won’t pass the vehicle inspection in Maine.
Do I Need A Catalytic Converter To Pass Inspection In Pa?
Yes, you need a catalytic converter to pass inspection in Pennsylvania in short PA. It’s illegal to tamper with any of the vehicle’s equipment as per the PA laws.
How Many Catalytic Converters Do You Need To Pass Emissions?
The number actually depends on the exhaust system of your vehicle. If your vehicle includes a dual exhaust system, you will need two catalytic converters for your car.
A single catalytic converter is sufficient for traditional vehicles. If you have a single catalytic converter on your vehicle, you surely will pass the emissions or the inspection test.
They are designed to reduce the emission level. If you are planning to install multiple converters to make it more effective, it won’t work. They are not designed in such a way.
Does A Car Safety Inspection Include If The Catalytic Converter Works?
Yes, it includes. Catalytic Converter is among the top list of equipment that is checked during an inspection. So, if the equipment doesn’t work during the inspection, you are going to fail the safety inspection.
Conclusion
To pass the vehicle inspection you should ensure that there is a catalytic converter that works fine. The inspector will obviously check and inspect the catalytic converter.
If it’s tampered with or doesn’t work, you won’t pass the inspection. The law is the same for every state and there is no alternative as well.