Frequently asked questions

What happens if I fail the emissions inspection?

• The inspector will give you an Emission Repair Form for a certified emission repair technician to fill out and a Vehicle Inspection Report that will help your technician determine which part of your vehicle's system caused the emissions problem
• If your vehicle did not pass the enhanced emissions inspection, it is producing more pollutants than the standard for its model year

When do I have to take my vehicle in for re-inspection?

• If your vehicle fails the inspection, you will be allowed a specified amount of time to have the necessary repairs made. The initial inspector will give you the details

Where can I go for emission repairs?

• You must have the necessary emission repairs done by a registered Emission Repair Facility (ERF)or you may make them yourself
• Be sure to bring your Vehicle Inspection Report and Emission Repair Form for the ERF to complete
• When your vehicle does not pass inspection, you can find an emission repair facility through our online ERF database or call (888) NJ-MOTOR

What happens once the emission repairs are finished?

• Once the repairs are completed, you must have your vehicle re-inspected by a licensed inspector at a private or state inspection facility
• Remember to bring all emissions-related receipts, your Emission Repair Form and the Vehicle Inspection Report with you. If you repair the vehicle yourself, you must bring the receipts for any emissions-related parts you used. A re-inspection will not be performed without these documents

Are there limits on required emission repairs or to apply for a waiver?

• If you qualify for a waiver, ask for it at the inspection facility
• Repairs for emission failures may only be performed by the motorist or a licensed Emission Repair Facility (ERF). If you perform the repairs, only the cost of parts applies to the waiver (currently $450)
• Repairs performed up to 60 days prior to the initial failure can be applied as long as they were emissions-related and performed by you or an ERF

Where can I obtain a waiver?

• You can get a waiver if you bring your vehicle to a State Inspection Station with your initial Vehicle Inspection Report, the new Vehicle Inspection Report and your emissions-related repair receipts
• Costs associated with parts and labor to fix the emissions-related problem can be applied toward the waiver. However, if you do the repairs yourself, your labor doesn't count toward the waiver
• Federal law requires you to have certain air pollution equipment in your vehicle. Repairing or replacing emissions system components that have been tampered with or are missing do not count toward the waiver

What if I think the emission results are wrong?

• You can request a referee inspection after you complete the first inspection if:
  • You felt the vehicle was not tested in accordance with state requirements* at a State or Private Inspection Facility.
  • Your vehicle does not pass the re-inspection portion of the test after an ERF makes necessary repairs or finds that none are necessary
  • There is any question regarding a waiver for the performed repairs
• To qualify, your vehicle must have passed the safety inspection without exhibiting any of the following conditions:
  • Continuous visible smoke
  • Illuminated "check engine" or "MIL" indicator apparatus lights
  • Evidence of emission control tampering
• Referee inspections are performed at one of three specialty sites:
  • Asbury Park
  • Morristown
  • Winslow
• NOTE: Asking for a referee inspection does not extend the expiration date on your current inspection sticker

*N.J.A.C. 7:27-15.5


Do I have to pass the safety inspection?

• Your vehicle must pass the general safety inspection before a sticker will be applied to the windshield. If your vehicle fails for safety only, you do not need to take it to an Emission Repair Facility (ERF) or bring ERF receipts when you go for re-inspection

How does maintaining my vehicle's emissions system benefit me?

• If you maintain your emissions system, you can:
  • Reduce your fuel costs from an average of 6% to 13%
  • Avoid more costly repairs
  • Extend the life of your vehicle and make it more reliable
  • Contribute to cleaner air

What is the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) test?

• The On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) test reads a computer system in your vehicle to identify engine related problems that may result in the increase of harmful pollutant emissions. By maintaining your vehicle, you can help improve New Jersey's air quality