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New law exempts newer cars from emissions test

Newer cars with low mileage will be exempt from emissions tests under a new state law.

The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, in conjunction with the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, will debut the new emissions exemption on Wednesday, April 1. Under provisions of the new law passed last year vehicles that are produced within three years of the current year and have less than 70,000 miles will be exempt from obtaining an emissions inspection.

"We look forward to our continued partnership and teamwork with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and State Inspection stations as we roll out this exemption," said NCDMV Commissioner Kelly Thomas. "This new initiative is another step in our efforts to improve customer service and convenience for North Carolina motorists."

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

A vehicles age is determined by its model year, which is prominently displayed on the owner's valid registration and the automobile emissions control label located in the engine compartment. All vehicles are still subject to the annual safety inspection.

For more information about the North Carolina Inspection Program or to determine which inspection is required for your vehicle, please visit the Division's website at http://www.ncdot.gov/dmv/vehicle/registration/inspection/.