What must an inspection certificate include to be valid?

For an inspection certificate to be valid, it must include a signature and date from the individual who conducted the inspection. This is crucial because the signature serves as a form of accountability and responsibility, ensuring that a qualified inspector has thoroughly examined the vehicle in accordance with the state's inspection standards. The date is important as it indicates when the inspection took place, which is relevant for both legal and regulatory purposes, including determining the validity period of the inspection.

Including a verification of vehicle brand, a list of previous repairs, or authentication from the vehicle manufacturer, while potentially useful information in certain contexts, is not a requirement for the validity of the inspection certificate itself. The essential elements focus on the inspector's confirmation of having performed the inspection properly and the recency of that inspection, reflected through the signature and date.