If you own a car, you’re probably used to making biannual trips to a certified vehicle inspection center for emissions testing. Thanks to changes in NJ state inspection requirements, you may not need to do that this year. If the sticker on your car’s windshield indicates your vehicle is due for an inspection this summer, you need to be aware of some important changes to New Jersey’s inspection policy before you head to your local service center. You may be one of many vehicle owners who discovers your car-related to-do list just became one item shorter.
What You Should Know about Changing New Jersey State Inspection Requirements
In the coming weeks, check your mailbox for a card from the DMV. The state recently decided to exempt a handful of vehicle classes from all future New Jersey state inspections. If you do receive a card confirming your car is exempt from inspections, keep the card in your glove box or wherever you store your proof of insurance. If you are stopped by a law-enforcement officer, simply show him the exemption card. Once your car is exempt, you’re free to scrape your current inspection sticker off of your windshield and discard it.
Vehicles That Will Be Exempt from New Jersey Inspection Requirements
Who can expect to receive an exemption card? Owners of vehicles that meet any of the following criteria are no longer subject to New Jersey state inspectionrequirements.
- Vehicles with model years of 1995 or older that weigh less than 8,500 pounds (this weight limit covers most of the passenger cars and SUVs on the roads today)
- Gasoline-powered passenger vehicles that are model year 2007 or older with gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWRs) between 8,501 and 14,000 pounds (this includes three-quarter and one-ton trucks)
- Gasoline-powered passenger vehicles that are model year 2013 or older with GVWRs exceeding 14,001 pounds.
- Diesel-powered passenger vehicles that are model year 1996 or older with GVWRs of 8,500 or less.
Other Changes to New Jersey’s Vehicle Inspection Program
New Jersey will continue to allow vehicle inspections at central inspection facilities and private
inspection facilities licensed to perform inspections, but there will be a few changes. The central inspection facilities will initially inspect only passenger-plated cars. However, passenger-plated cars can still receive their initial inspections at private facilities. If a passenger car fails its initial inspection, it will have to go to a private facility for re-inspection. Commercial vehicles not exempt from inspection will be required to be inspected, and re-inspected if required, at private facilities.
If your vehicle still must be inspected biannually, DeBoer’s Auto Sales & Service can take care of that quickly and professionally. Our shop is licensed to perform New Jersey emissions inspections. Contact us to make an appointment or just stop by at your convenience.
