What is the main goal of vehicle safety inspections at TLC?

The primary objective of vehicle safety inspections conducted by the Transportation Licensing Center (TLC) is to ensure that all vehicles are roadworthy and comply with emissions standards. This is crucial for maintaining public safety by verifying that vehicles can safely operate without posing a risk to drivers, passengers, or other road users. Inspections typically assess key safety components, such as brakes, lights, tires, and overall vehicle integrity. Additionally, ensuring compliance with emissions standards contributes to environmental protection by reducing the level of harmful pollutants released into the atmosphere.

The other options do not align with the goals of safety inspections; they focus on aspects not directly related to vehicle safety or public health. For example, reducing the number of vehicles on the road, increasing new vehicle sales, or altering the driving age do not directly address the essential purpose of verifying and maintaining vehicle safety and environmental compliance through routine inspections.