The New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association (NHADA) is informing members of a significant update from the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Department of Safety (DOS) regarding the state vehicle inspection program. According to a recent news release, the vehicle inspection program has been suspended. This announcement is effective immediately and applies statewide.
What This Means for Consumers
For consumers, the discontinuation of the inspection program means that vehicles are no longer required to undergo the previously mandated state inspection process. While this removes a regulatory step in vehicle ownership and transfer, safety and maintenance remain critical. Dealers and repair facilities should continue to encourage customers to maintain their vehicles according to manufacturer recommendations and best safety practices. Although the formal inspection requirement has ended, consumer expectations around vehicle safety, reliability, and transparency remain unchanged.
What This Means for NHADA Members
For NHADA members, the suspension of the inspection program eliminates the operational and administrative requirements associated with state inspections. Dealers should update internal processes, staff training, and customer communications to reflect this change. Any prior procedures tied specifically to the inspection program should be reviewed and adjusted to align with the news release.
Members are encouraged to document this change in their compliance materials and remain attentive to any future guidance or rulemaking that may follow.
Important Dealer Guidance: Temporary Plates
Effective immediately, dealers are no longer required to affix an inspection sticker at the time of temporary plate attachment. This requirement is obsolete in light of the indicated suspension of the inspection program.
Dealership personnel responsible for vehicle preparation and delivery should be notified promptly to discontinue the use and placement of inspection stickers.
NHADA will continue to monitor developments and share additional guidance as it becomes available. Members with questions are encouraged to contact NHADA directly for clarification or support.