The state’s vehicle inspection pause has created operational questions for dealerships, especially around dealer plate use. Dealer plates remain essential for daily operations, allowing dealers to transport inventory, conduct test drives, and move vehicles efficiently without registering each one.What Changed
Before the pause, vehicles operating on dealer plates were expected to meet inspection standards and display a valid inspection sticker. The sticker served as visible proof of compliance.
What Did NOT Change
The pause does not change safety obligations.
Vehicles operated on public roads, including those with dealer plates, must still comply with RSA 266 equipment standards, including:
Law enforcement can still stop and cite vehicles that fail to meet minimum equipment standards.
Operational Impact for Dealerships
Without inspection stickers serving as visible proof, dealerships must rely on internal processes to ensure compliance.
Best practice during the pause:
Conduct a thorough equipment check before affixing a dealer plate
Focus specifically on RSA 266 minimum standards
Document the review with:
Date
Vehicle identification
Examiner’s name
Confirmation equipment was reviewed and compliant
Why Documentation Matters
Operating a vehicle that does not meet standards can lead to:
Any deficiencies should be corrected before the vehicle is driven on public roads.
Bottom Line
The inspection pause changes how compliance is demonstrated, not the underlying responsibility. Dealerships that reinforce internal vehicle examinations, maintain strong documentation, and prioritize safety standards will be best positioned to operate confidently during this transitional period.