1996 model cars and newer will have to pass On-Board Diagnostics inspection as of Oct. 1

Starting Monday, October 1, all 1996 and newer model year vehicles, subject to testing, must pass the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD II) inspection. New Hampshire incorporated OBD II inspections into the safety inspection program beginning in May 2005 as a requirement of the Federal Clean Air Act. The program enables licensed inspection stations to perform OBD II inspections and allows the state to comply with Environmental Protection Agency regulations.

All 1996 and newer model year light-duty gasoline-fueled passenger vehicles (8500-lbs GVWR and less) registered in the state are emission tested as part of the annual safety Inspection as regulated by statute.

An economic hardship waiver is available for people who cannot afford to make the repairs to their vehicle within 60-days of rejection of their initial inspection. The waiver allows the vehicle owner to have until the following years’ inspection to make OBD II repairs. The waiver application can be obtained by calling (603)271-0352.