Do I Need an Inspection To Renew My Tags in New Jersey?
Yes, a periodic inspection focused on emissions is required to renew your vehicle tags in New Jersey. Most vehicles require inspection once every two years, while new vehicles are exempt for the first five years after purchase.
After a successful renewal, New Jersey provides an inspection sticker that serves as proof of compliance with state requirements. The inspection sticker is affixed to the lower left corner of the windshield as viewed from the driver's position, and this sticker must remain valid throughout the registration period.
Exemptions and Special Circumstances
Multiple vehicle categories are exempt from inspection under N.J.A.C. 13:20-7.2:
- Gasoline-powered passenger vehicles model year 1995 or older with a gross vehicle weight rating of 8,500 pounds or less
- Historic motor vehicles that are at least 25 years old and registered with QQ plates
- Approved collector vehicles that are less than 25 years old, driven fewer than 3,000 miles annually, and insured as limited-use collector vehicles
- 100% electric vehicles
- Motorcycles and motorized bicycles
- Farm tractors, farm machinery, and farm implements
- Fire trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating exceeding 8,500 pounds
Collector vehicles must obtain special exemption status through the Motor Vehicle Commission and display an exemption decal. Approved collector vehicles undergo odometer verification at state inspection stations.
Contact Information for Tag Services
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
P.O. Box 403, Trenton, NJ 08666-0403
Phone: (609) 292-6500
Official Website: Motor Vehicle Commission
