Do I Need an Inspection To Renew My Tags in New York?
Yes, an inspection is required to renew your vehicle tags in New York. Under Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 301, every motor vehicle registered in New York State must undergo inspection once every 12 months. The Department of Motor Vehicles maintains computer records of inspections, and vehicle owners cannot renew their registration if there is no DMV record of a valid inspection within the past 12 months.
New York requires both safety and emissions inspections for most vehicles. The emissions inspection includes an onboard diagnostic system (OBDII) check of emissions control systems to ensure compliance with the Federal Clean Air Act. Diesel vehicles receive a diesel emissions inspection at the time of the safety inspection.
New York issues two windshield stickers: the inspection sticker must be placed in the lower left corner of the windshield, while the registration sticker is affixed to the lower left corner to the right of the inspection sticker when viewed from the driver's seat.
Exemptions and Special Circumstances
Certain vehicles are exempt from emissions inspection requirements under New York regulations:
- Motorcycles
- Vehicles less than two model years old
- Vehicles more than 25 model years old
- Diesel-powered vehicles, except 1997 and newer models with a gross vehicle weight rating below 8,501 pounds
- Electric-powered vehicles
- Vehicles with historical plates
- Vehicles subject to heavy vehicle safety inspection
Vehicles purchased from private sellers receive a 10-day inspection extension from the registration date. Out-of-state inspection stickers remain valid until expiration or for one year after the registration date, whichever comes first. Vehicle owners who are out of state when their inspection expires may apply for a temporary 10-day extension by writing to the Bureau of Consumer and Facility Services.
Contact Information for Tag Services
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
6 Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12228
Phone: (518) 486-9786 or (800) 698-2931
Official Website: Department of Motor Vehicles
