Does New Jersey Have Emissions Testing?
New Jersey maintains a statewide vehicle emissions testing program that applies to most registered vehicles. The program operates under the authority of New Jersey Title 39 and is administered by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission.
Understanding New Jersey's Emissions Testing Program
New Jersey's vehicle emissions program is designed to ensure vehicles meet state and federal air quality standards. According to N.J.S.A. 39:8-3, no certificate of approval shall be issued until the motor vehicle successfully passes inspections for emissions and emission-related items such as emission control equipment and on-board diagnostics.
New Jersey's emissions testing requirements apply statewide to all eligible vehicles registered in the state. There are no geographic exemptions based on county or region.
Vehicles Subject to Emissions Testing in New Jersey
Testing Frequency
Vehicles need emissions testing:
- Every two years for most vehicles
- First test after five years for new vehicles
- Annually for certain commercial diesel vehicles (18,000 pounds GVWR or more)
Gasoline-Powered Vehicles
Gasoline-powered passenger vehicles registered in New Jersey must undergo emissions testing if they are:
- Model year 1996 or newer with GVWR 8,500 pounds or less
- Model year 2008 or newer with GVWR 8,501 to 14,000 pounds
- Model year 2014 or newer with GVWR 14,001 pounds or more
Diesel-Powered Vehicles
According to the New Jersey MVC diesel emission guidelines, diesel vehicles have specific testing requirements:
- Light-duty diesel (under 8,500 pounds GVWR): Biennial emissions testing required
- Heavy-duty diesel (18,000 pounds GVWR or more): Annual smoke opacity inspection at licensed Diesel Private Inspection Facility
- Mid-weight diesel (8,501 to 17,999 pounds GVWR): Requirements vary based on registration type
Vehicles Exempt From Emissions Testing
The following vehicle categories are exempt from emissions testing requirements under N.J.A.C. 13:20-7.2:
By Model Year (Gasoline Vehicles):
- Model year 1995 and older with GVWR 8,500 pounds or less
- Model year 2007 and older with GVWR 8,501 to 14,000 pounds
- Model year 2013 and older with GVWR 14,001 pounds or more
By Vehicle Type:
- 100% Electric vehicles
- Historic motor vehicles (25 years or older with QQ plates)
- Approved Collector Vehicles (less than 25 years old, driven under 3,000 miles/year)
- Motorcycles
- Motorized bicycles
- Farm tractors and traction equipment
- Farm machinery and implements
- Fire trucks with GVWR over 8,500 pounds
- In-transit construction equipment
- Tactical military vehicles on Federal installations
By Registration Type:
- Diesel vehicles GVWR 8,501 to 17,999 pounds plated commercial (owner self-inspection required)
- Diesel vehicles GVWR 8,501 to 17,999 pounds, plated passenger, not-for-profit, governmental, commuter van, farmer or farm truck (except buses)
- Diesel vehicles model year 1996 and older with certain registration types
- Omnibuses are subject to Commercial Bus Inspection Unit testing
- School buses are subject to the School Bus Inspection Unit testing
Emissions Testing Costs and Fees in New Jersey
State Inspection Facilities
Emissions testing at state-operated centralized inspection facilities (CIFs) is free of charge. The state of New Jersey provides these facilities throughout the state to offer no-cost emissions testing to residents.
Private Inspection Facilities
Licensed Private Inspection Facilities (PIFs) charge for emissions testing services.
- Private facility fees typically range from $30 to $90
Where to Get Emissions Testing in New Jersey
State Inspection Facilities
New Jersey operates numerous state-run centralized inspection facilities throughout the state that provide free emissions testing. To find a facility:
- Visit the NJ MVC Inspection Locations page
- Make appointments online for select facilities (Salem, Cape May, and Washington/Warren County) through New Jersey Motor Vehicle Inspection System
Private Inspection Facilities
Licensed Private Inspection Facilities and Emission Repair Facilities offer alternatives to state facilities.
Find private facilities through:
Emissions Testing Schedule in New Jersey
- Check the inspection sticker on your windshield for your emissions test due date
- You may complete emissions testing up to two months before the expiration date
- Testing every two years (biennial) for most vehicles
- Annual testing for heavy-duty diesel vehicles (18,000 pounds GVWR or more)
New Vehicle Emissions Testing
New vehicles purchased from dealers receive special treatment:
- Five-year initial exemption from emissions testing
- First emissions test required in the fifth year after the model year
- Example: A 2025 model year vehicle first requires emissions testing in 2030
- After initial test, vehicle follows standard two-year testing cycle
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Driving with expired emissions testing may result in penalties according to N.J.S.A. 39:8-9:
- Fines between $100 and $200
- Imprisonment for up to 30 days
- MVC may revoke registration privileges
- Law enforcement can issue citations during traffic stops
Contact Information
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission - Main Office
225 East State Street, Trenton, NJ 08666
Phone: (609) 292-6500
Official Website: New Jersey MVC
