What happens to the original inspection certificate after a replacement is issued?

When a replacement inspection certificate is issued, the original inspection certificate typically remains with the vehicle owner. This practice allows the owner to maintain a complete record of inspection history, which can be useful for future reference, selling the vehicle, or demonstrating compliance with state regulations. Keeping the original inspection certificate can also provide proof that the vehicle was inspected and met the required safety and emissions standards at the time of the initial inspection.

The other options do not align with standard procedures in Missouri for handling original inspection certificates after replacements are issued. For instance, returning the original to the state or destroying it immediately would not provide the vehicle owner with any documentation of their vehicle's inspection history. Keeping it with the inspection station operator would not serve the owner's interests, as they need to have access to their documentation for potential future needs.