New Jersey has strict vehicle emissions standards.
You live in New Jersey, and perhaps you have replaced your old clunker with a newer model automobile. By state law, you must have the car inspected every other year or you will be subject to a stiff fine or jail time. New Jersey has a number of inspection sites throughout the state as well as locations run by private contractors. The purpose of inspection is to make sure that the basics of your car are in working order.
Emissions
Because New Jersey is trying to meet compliance terms of the 1990 National Clear Air Act, the state has adopted the stringent motor vehicle emission standards of the State of California, a change that went into effect on Jan. 1, 2009. If your vehicle is new, regardless of whether you bought it in New Jersey or out-of-state, it will be issued a one-time four-year sticker if it passes the emissions as well as other tests. Otherwise, you must return to an inspection facility every two years. If it fails the emissions test, you must make the necessary repairs within 30 days, then return to the inspection station.
Windshield, Lights And Brakes
All of these must be in good working order for your vehicle to pass the New Jersey inspection. First, your windshield must not be cracked and it must be unobstructed. The windshield wipers must work and give you a clear view of the road. The state emphasizes the importance of the lights on your vehicle, so it won't pass muster unless the headlights work along with the high-beams, the turn indicators, parking and tail lights. Of particular importance is the light that illuminates the license plate, because police officers must be able to see it. Finally, your car's brakes and emergency brake must be in good working order for the vehicle to pass.
Other Considerations
The inspector looks for other things, as well. For instance, you license plate should be securely affixed to your car and the gas cap has to remain tight so that gasoline fumes do not foul the air. In addition, your car must have a working horn and the tires should not show excessive wear. If your automobile fails for any reason, you can return to the inspection station after you have seen to the repairs; and in most cases, you are not required to have the car totally reinspected. You'll simply need to show that the repairs have been made.
Timing
Motorists are responsible for knowing when to have their vehicles reinspected. The inspections must occur within two months of the due date on the inspection sticker attached to the car's windshield. Note that vehicle registration dates and inspection dates can differ.
Tags: return inspection, vehicle pass, working order, your vehicle, good working, good working order
