⚠️MD Inspection Alert: Your 2000-2005 classic needs expert metal repair to pass. Handformed precision protects value.

Classic Compliance

Historic tag exemption ENDED July 1 for 2000–2005 vehicles.

A safety inspection is now required.

Vehicles previously registered only with historic tags (and thus have never had a full safety inspection) will require a Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate to switch to a standard plate. To locate a licensed vehicle safety inspection station near you use this link Inspection Station Lookup.

Failing MD Inspection due to rust?

Your Modern Classic deserves better than a patch job. Get precision metal fabrication and body restoration from Maryland's experts. Quality work to last.

Schedule Rust Remediation Now

Has your tag already expired?

If you are not able to register the vehicle because it has not yet received a safety certification, you may qualify for a 30-day temporary registration that will enable you to legally drive the vehicle to the inspection station.

What happens if your vehicle fails the safety inspection?

If your vehicle fails to meet any safety standard, the Maryland Inspection Certification cannot be issued. You must have the problem(s) identified on the station’s inspection report fixed and then have the vehicle re-inspected by the same registered inspection mechanic at the same station. You have the option of fixing the problem yourself, having the inspection station fix the problem, or taking the vehicle to another facility for repairs.

Common Safety Fails for Metal

While aesthetics aren’t the focus of Maryland’s inspection, structural integrity matters. Loose bumpers, exposed sharp edges, or rusted-out body panels can be considered serious safety issues. Inspectors will reject a vehicle if floor is rusted or weakened to a point it does not support persons or load or container and holes are greater than 6 square inches.

Fender Rot

A fender is missing, or contains sharp or jagged edges that expose the tire.

Frame Corrosion

Rust or corrosion that has substantially weakened the frame, cross members, or any suspension mounting points. Inspectors may probe with a tool to check for structural weakness.

Exhaust Holes

Safety inspections rigorously check the entire exhaust system for leaks precisely because a failure here directly compromises the health and safety of the occupants.

Floor Pans

The floor is rusted or weakened to a point where it does not support the occupant or permits the entrance of engine exhaust gases into the vehicle cabin.

Unapproved Welds

Frame welding that is not properly reinforced (e.g., frame rails are welded but not "fish-plated" or butt-welded according to accepted standards).

Inoperable Latches

Any door, hood, or trunk that does not readily open or securely close. This includes secondary hood safety catches.

Detached Components

Body sheet metal or moldings that are loose or can detach during operation.

Classic Jeep Body Restoration

Exceeding Maryland State Safety Standards

Our goal here was "metal finishing" using tools to get the panel as straight as possible, minimizing the need for thick body filler. We welded a new sheet metal patch panel into the lower body to replace rust damage, and the area was smoothed and contoured to prepare it for primer and paint.

Removal of Bad Welds

We removed an old, subpar weld that was not done properly and failed Maryland safety inspection.

Rust/Damage Repair

We cut out and replaced the original metal in the lower corner (a common area for rust and damage on Jeeps).

Bodywork/Metal Finishing

We ground smooth and contoured the surface of the new metal. Here, the shiny, silver area is the bare, fresh metal where the grinding has occurred.

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