As of January 31, 2026, New Hampshire will officially eliminate its mandatory annual vehicle safety inspections, along with emissions testing. Emissions are expected to end by September 2026, possibly sooner if a waiver is approved. The change was added to the state’s budget bill in the final stages of negotiations. This move that has sparked concern among auto industry professionals.
The repeal has raised alarm among mechanics, auto dealerships, and safety advocates. Many argue that removing regular inspections could compromise road safety, particularly in a state known for challenging winter driving conditions. Without consistent checks, problems like worn brakes, unsafe tires, or structural rust could go unnoticed until they cause accidents.
Expert Perspective: Bill Gurney Weighs In
Bill Gurney, owner and founder of Gurney’s Automotive Repair in Nashua and Milford, has been in the industry for over 40 years. He became a state vehicle inspector at just 17 years old and has built his business on a foundation of trust, integrity, and long-term customer relationships.
In a recent WFEA Morning Update interview, Bill expressed deep concern about the decision. He explained that the repeal was inserted into the budget at the last minute, bypassing the ongoing discussions between lawmakers, auto dealers, and industry experts about potential changes to the inspection process. In his view, when a proposal needs to be tucked into the budget to pass, it raises questions about its merit.
Bill warns that eliminating inspections could make New Hampshire’s roads less safe. While statistics vary from state to state, conditions such as weather, road quality, and vehicle age play a large role in accident rates. Without inspections, there is a real possibility of increased injuries or fatalities.
At Gurney’s, a standard inspection costs about $40 and includes a full vehicle health report. This review covers brakes, tires, frame rust, and other safety-critical areas. Bill stresses that a well-maintained car is not just about protecting the driver—it’s about protecting everyone else on the road. If a safe car is involved in a collision with one that has serious mechanical or structural problems, the outcome could be far worse.
What Drivers Should Do Now
The law may change, but safety requirements still exist. New Hampshire’s traffic regulations under RSA 266 remain in place. This means brakes, tires, lights, and emissions must still meet legal standards. The difference is that drivers will no longer have an annual reminder or a legal deadline to ensure these parts are in good condition.
Bill encourages all drivers to stick with their current inspection habits. Regular checkups should remain part of your vehicle care routine. Preventative maintenance is far less costly than dealing with a major breakdown or an accident caused by unsafe conditions.
For those who have relied on state inspections as their primary safety check, now is the time to schedule routine health reports with a trusted repair shop. Gurney’s will continue to offer comprehensive evaluations at an affordable price, helping drivers stay informed and safe.
The Value of Preventative Care
Routine inspections are about more than meeting state requirements. They provide an opportunity to catch small issues before they become major problems. Worn brake pads, underinflated tires, corroded brake lines, and frame rust are all conditions that can worsen quickly, especially in New Hampshire’s harsh winters.
Without the annual inspection, these issues could go unnoticed. For many responsible vehicle owners, inspections have been a built-in safety net. Now, that responsibility shifts entirely to the driver. Staying disciplined about maintenance schedules is key to avoiding unexpected—and dangerous—failures.
Gurney’s Commitment to Safety
Since 1985, Gurney’s Automotive Repair has been dedicated to keeping New Hampshire drivers on the road safely. With ASE-certified technicians and decades of combined experience, the team provides complete care for brakes, tires, suspension systems, and more.
Bill’s philosophy is simple: care more about people than cars. While fixing vehicles is the day-to-day work, protecting lives is the ultimate goal. That commitment will not change, even as state requirements do. Gurney’s will continue to offer affordable, thorough safety checks and honest advice to help drivers make the best decisions for themselves and their families.
Stay Safe, Stay Informed
The law may be changing, but your safety depends on the choices you make behind the wheel and under the hood. Schedule your next vehicle health check with Gurney’s Automotive Repair and keep your car—and your loved ones—protected.
