In New Jersey, a vehicle emissions test is required every two years. The Motor vehicle Commission does not issue any reminder for the inspection. The inspection due date of the vehicle is ascertained from the sticker on the windshield which is issued once an inspection is cleared.

VEHICLES THAT REQUIRE AN EMISSIONS TEST

A car, truck, motor home, RV (recreational vehicle) or any other vehicle requires an emissions test when:

1. It is a new car which has completed four years.
2. It is a vehicle used for school transportation.
3. It runs on diesel and has a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating of 18,000 pounds or more.
4. It runs on gasoline.

VALIDITY

Emission tests are valid for two years. If the car is registered in New Jersey, the emissions test has to be undertaken in New Jersey. Getting an emissions test is the buyer's responsibility when the vehicle is purchased from a private owner.

EXEMPTIONS

A vehicle is exempt from emissions testing when:

1. It is a contractor equipment in transit.
2. It is a new vehicle which has not completed four years.
3. It is a farm vehicle.
4. It is a vehicle operated by a county, municipality, fire district, or duly incorporated non-profit organization and used for first aid, emergency, ambulance, rescue or fire-fighting purposes.
5. It is a historic vehicle.
6. It is a collector vehicle.

EMISSIONS TESTING LOCATIONS

Any State Inspection Facility or Private Inspection Facility can test your vehicle. A Diesel Emissions Inspection Center will perform diesel emissions tests.

EMISSIONS TESTING FEES

The State Inspection Facility performs an inspection for free but a Private Inspection Facility will charge a fee for conducting the test. This fee depends on the Private Facility you will be going to and you should call beforehand to check on the amount.

EMISSIONS TEST FAILURES

If your vehicle fails the emissions test, you must have the vehicle repaired, after which it must pass the after repairs emissions test. The vehicle can be repaired at a registered Emissions Repair Facility or elsewhere. When your vehicle fails the emissions test, you will get a Vehicle Inspection Report and an Emissions Repair Form that will help to determine what caused the problem. If your vehicle is unable to meet the emissions standard following the necessary repair work, you may be able to obtain a waiver issued by a State Inspection Station. To qualify for a waiver you must be able to show receipts proving that you have spent at least $450 to reduce the vehicle's emissions. You will also have to carry your initial Vehicle Inspection Report as well as the new Vehicle Inspection Report. Contact the Motor Vehicle Commission's Inspection Hotline at (888) NJ-MOTOR for other queries.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• For more information you can refer to the inspection FAQs page.
• See also Vehicle History Reports.