Most states have titling and registration laws that require residents to title and register their cars in the state—and for new residents of the state to do so within some period of time, such as 30 days. Some states require titled cars to pass a comprehensive safety inspection. And some states also require cars owned by residents of certain counties to pass an emissions test/inspection designed to improve air quality in more densely populated counties.
In Alabama, residents are required to title and register their vehicles with the Alabama Department of Revenue's Motor Vehicle Division. New residents must title and register their vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency. Alabama does not require a state-wide vehicle safety inspection for private vehicles. However, certain commercial vehicles are subject to safety inspections. As for emissions testing, Alabama does not have a state-wide emissions inspection program for private vehicles. Therefore, residents are not required to pass an emissions test for their personal cars, regardless of the county they reside in. It's important for residents to check with local county regulations as they may have specific requirements that differ from state law.