New law exempts newer cars from NC emissions inspection

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — If you drive a newer car, you may now save money and time when you get your annual vehicle inspection.

Effective today, newer cars and light-duty trucks will no longer need emissions tests in North Carolina.

Under the law, vehicles will no longer require emissions tests during their first three model years if they have fewer than 70,000 miles on their odometers. Cars and trucks already are exempted from tests during their first model year. The exemption saves car owners $16.40 per vehicle each year in counties where tests are required. That includes Brunswick and New Hanover Counties.

State environmental regulators say they worked closely with DMV to ensure the changes would not have a negative affect on air quality.

“Our most recent research showed that North Carolina could exempt newer vehicles from emissions tests without making our air unhealthy to breathe,” Division of Air Quality Director Sheila Holman said. “Newer cars and trucks seldom fail the emissions tests during their first three model years.”

Click here for a calculator to determine whether a vehicle qualifies for the exemption

Emissions tests are required in 48 of North Carolina’s 100 counties. The state estimates the new law will save car owners $14 million a year.