New Jersey State Inspection is a state mandated program that requires all vehicles to be inspected for emissions testing. It was initially inspired by the Clean Air Act of 1990 to help reduce pollution in the state of New Jersey. This article is focused on state inspection for regular passenger vehicles. (Commercial vehicles have a few different requirements).
What is a New Jersey State Inspection?
The inspection consists of a safety look-over and a test with an analyzer machine. The analyzer machine is plugged into the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) of the vehicle to ensure all emissions are within the accepted range.
Where to get a NJ State Inspection*
NJSI can be completed either at a NJ DMV location or a Private Inspection Facility (PIF). Many auto repair shops are PIFs.
When to get your vehicle inspected in NJ
Check the inspection sticker at the bottom corner of your windshield. The sticker will tell you the month and year that your next inspection is due. The earliest you can get an inspection is up to two months before your current stickers’ expiration date.
What you need for NJ state inspection
Bring a copy of your driver’s license, valid insurance and registration.
If any of your documents are expired, we can still complete the inspection, however we will mention that expired documentation is an advisory.
What happens if you do not pass NJSI?
You will receive an Emissions Repair Form, which is a request for you to get a specific aspect of your vehicle repaired in order to be compliant. You can get these repairs completed at any Emission Repair Facility. You must show proof of repairs before returning to be reinspected. Keep in mind, there is a short window of time in which you must have these repairs completed.
Get your NJ State Inspection on time
Driving without NJSI could cost you up to $200 in fines. Make sure you check your inspection sticker and stay compliant.
*If you find yourself in any of these situations, see the guidelines below:
- You purchased a used car out of state
- You purchased a new car out of state
- You purchased a used car in NJ
Check the vehicle's year.
If the vehicle was made in the last 5 years, you must get it inspected at the DMV.
If the vehicle is more than 5 years old, it can be inspected at the DMV or a PIF.
Please click here to see if your vehicle is exempt from inspection.