New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

The State of New Hampshire 

Motor Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance 

State Implementation Plan Revision 

Attachment V: 

Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 

Prepared by: 

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services 

Concord, NH 

November 1, 2011 

" 1 DEPARTMENT OF 

- 

Environmental 

Services 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 

Table of Contents 

Saf-C 3200 Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

PART Saf-C 3201 APPLICABILITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 

PART Saf-C 3202 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 

PART Saf-C 3203 GENERAL INSPECTION INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 

PART Saf-C 3204 APPLICATION FOR OFFICIAL INSPECTION STATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 

PART Saf-C 3205 APPROVAL PROCESS . 

Part Saf-C 3206 .04 TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 

PART Saf-C 3207 INSPECTION STATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 

Part Saf-C 3209 OBTAINING INSPECTION STICKERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 

PART Saf-C 3210 INSPECTION OF VEHICLE REGISTRATION AND TIME FOR INSPECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 

PART Saf-C 3218 EXHAUST SYSTEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 

PART Saf-C 3220 EMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 

PART Saf-C 3222 ON-BOARD DIOAGNOSTIC SYSTEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 

PART Saf-C 3248 ADMINISTRATIVE FINES AND HEARINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 

Saf-C 5800 Roadside Diesel Opacity Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 

PART Saf-C 5801 PURPOSE AND SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 

PART Saf-C 5802 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 

PART Saf-C 5803 INSPECTION REQUIRED. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 

PART Saf-C 5804 TEST PROCEDURES AND STANDARDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 

PART Saf-C 5805 ADMINISTRATIVE FINES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 1 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, CHAPTER Saf-C 32001 

Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Requirements 

Applicable Sections 

1 HTML version available at : http ://www.gencourt.state .nh .us/ruies/state agencies/saf-c3200 .html 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 2 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, CHAPTER Saf-C 3200 

Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Requirements 

PART Saf-C 3201- 3204 

PART Saf-C 3201 APPLICABILITY 

Saf-C 3201.01 Applicability. Unless otherwise stated in this chapter, these rules shall apply to 

passenger cars, trucks, combination vehicles, trailers and semi-trailers, motorcycles, farm and 

agricultural vehicles, antique vehicles and motorcycles, recreation vehicles, street rods and homemade 

vehicles . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3201.02 . Exemptions. 

(a) All vehicles owned by the federal government shall be exempt from these rules. 

(b) All new vehicles or chassis shall be exempt from these rules, provided that the new vehicle or 

chassis is not offered for sale to persons other than the distributor or dealer, as follows : 

(1) While in transit from a factory to a distributor or dealer; 

(2) While in transit from a distributor to a dealer; 

(3) While in transit from a dealer's warehouse or storage facility to his/her place of 

business; or 

(4) Delivered with a certificate of origin, until sold at retail, pursuant to RSA 266:1, VIII . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

PARTSaf-C3202 DEFINITIONS 

Saf-C 3202 .01 "Commissioner" means "commissioner" as defined in RSA 259 :13. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3202.02 "Department" means "department" as defined in RSA 259:19 . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3202 .03 "Director" means "director" as defined in RSA 259 :20 . 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 3 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3202.04 "Homemade vehicle" means a vehicle made from various parts of other vehicles so that the serial number of the body frame does not reflect the vehicle's identity . The term includes "composite vehicle", "reconstructed vehicle" and "kit car" . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07; ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3202 .05 "Light-duty truck" means any motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 8,500 pounds or less, a vehicle curb weight of 6,000 pounds or less and a basic vehicle frontal area of 45 

square feet or less, which is : 

(a) Designed primarily for transporting property or derivation of such a vehicle ; 

(b) Designed primarily for transporting persons and capable of seating more than 12 persons; or 

(c) Available with special features enabling off-street or off-highway operation and use. 

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at 

chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 

3201 .051); ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3202.06 "Light-duty vehicle" means any passenger vehicle or derivation of such a vehicle 

capable of seating 12 persons or less . 

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at 

chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 

3201.052); ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3202.07 "Malfunction indicator light (MIL)" means the instrument panel light used by the 

on-board diagnostics system to notify the operator of an emissions related fault . 

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at 

chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 

3201.053); ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3202.08 "Motorcycle-only inspection station" means an inspection station authorized by 

the department to conduct only motorcycle safety inspections pursuant to RSA 266 :1, V-a and not 

required to conduct on-board diagnostics-II emission testing pursuant to RSA 266 :59-b. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3202.09 "Motor vehicle inspection station" means an inspection station authorized by the 

department to conduct motor vehicle safety inspections pursuant to RSA 266:1 . 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3202 .10 "Multipurpose passenger vehicle" means any motor vehicle, except a trailer, 

designed to carry 10 persons or less and which has a maximum height of 30 inches from the 

manufacturer, measured from the bottom of the frame rails of the vehicle . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3202.11 "Newly registered vehicle" means: 

(a) Any vehicle registered for the first time after an assignment of ownership; 

(b) Any vehicle registered by the same owner whose previous registration for that vehicle has 

been expired for a period of longer than one year; or 

(c) Any vehicle transferring its registration to New Hampshire from another state. 

The term does not include registration renewals. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3202.12 "On-board diagnostics (OBD)" means the computer-based system required by the 

U.S . Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in all 1996 and newer light-duty vehicles and trucks, 

designed to monitor the performance of certain major engine components, including those components 

responsible for controlling emissions . 

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at 

chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 

3201 .081); ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3202.13 "On-board diagnostic scan tool" means a device used to communicate with the onboard diagnostics system and that complies with the requirements of Society of Automotive Engineers 

(SAE) Recommended Practice J1978, April of 2002 and J1979, May of 2007. 

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at 

chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 

3201.082); ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3202.14 "Rake" means the angle, measured in degrees, of a motorcycle's steering axis in 

relation to a line which is perpendicular to the motorcycle's wheelbase . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3202.15 "Street rod" means "street rod" as defined in RSA 259 :106-a. 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 5 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3202.16 "Trail" means the distance measured in inches between the point at which the steering axis intersects with the ground in front of the motorcycle and the point at which the forward 

limit of the wheelbase intersects with the surface below the motorcycle. 

Source . (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3202.17 "Tread depth" means the amount of tread design on a tire including original, 

retread and recapped tread, and regrooved designs. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

PART Saf-C 3203 GENERAL INSPECTION INFORMATION 

Saf-C 3203.01 Items to be Inspected. 

(a) The items to be inspected on a vehicle, which are described in detail in subsequent parts, shall 

include the following primary areas: 

(1) Registration, plates, registration certificate and vehicle identification number; 

(2) Steering, front end and suspension; 

(3) Brakes, including parking brake; 

(4) Odometer and speedometer; 

(5) Electrical system, horn and defroster; 

(6) Lights and reflectors, including headlight aim; 

(7) Glass, glazing and mirrors ; 

(8) Wipers; 

(9) Exhaust system; 

(10) On-board diagnostics system; 

(11) Body, chassis and bumper height; 

(12) Fuel system; and 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(13) Tires and wheels. 

Source. (See Revision Note #1 at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #5250, eff 10-21-91; ss by #6603, INTERIM, eff 10-

18-97, EXPIRES: 2-15-98; ss by #6664, eff 12-30-97; ss by 

#7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at chapter 

heading Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 3202.02); ss by 

eff #9184, 

6-20-08 

Saf-C 3203.02 Manufacturer's Specifications . All inspection stations shall utilize technical service 

manuals and other information pertaining to safety standards provided by the manufacturer to 

determine the manufacturer's specifications for a particular vehicle . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3203.03 Inspection of Vehicles Owned by a Corporation . 

(a) The inspection of vehicles owned by a corporation, partnership or other legal entity shall be 

conducted during a month which is determined by using the first letter or number of the company 

name. 

(b) For the purposes of (a) above, "company name" shall not include articles such as but not 

limited to "the". "a" "as" and "an" unless the article constitutes the entire company name . 

(c) The annual inspection, pursuant to RSA 266:1, III, shall be conducted as set forth in Table 

3200.1 .1 below: 

Table 3200.1 .1 Annual Inspection Schedule 

Month First Letter or Number of Name 

January A- B; 1 

February C; 2 

March D-E; 3 

April F-G; 4 

May H-I; 5 

June J-K-L; 6 

July M; 7 

August N; 8 

September O-P-Q; 9 

October R-S ; 0 

November T-U 

rDecember ~ V-W-X-Y-Z I 

(d) The semi-annual inspection, pursuant to RSA 266:1, IX, shall be conducted as set forth in 

Table 3200.1 .2 below: 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

Table 3200.1 .2 Semi-annual Inspection Schedule 

Months First Letter or Number of Corporate Name 

January and July A-B; 1 

February and August C; 2 

March and September D-E 

April and October F-G; 4 

May and November H-I; 5 

June and December J-K-L; 6 

July and January M; 7 

August and February N; 8 

September and March O-P-Q; 9 

October and April R-S; 0 

November and May T-U 

I December and June V-W-X-Y-Z 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3203.04 Early Inspectio n. 

(a) Pursuant to RSA 266:1, II-a, a mechanic shall perform an early inspection of a vehicle as 

follows : 

(1) The month in which the anniversary of the owner's birth occurs is one of the next 4 

months; 

(2) The owner provides verification of his/her absence from New Hampshire during the 

entire anniversary month; and 

(3) The owner has already obtained an early registration with an expiration date of his/her 

birth month in the following year. 

(b) In the event the motor vehicle passes all the inspection requirements, the mechanic shall 

issue an inspection sticker with an expiration date of the birth month in the following year of the first 

person named on the registration application. 

(c) For the purposes of (a) above, the owner may be a trust . 

(d) A fleet inspection station that inspects 100 or more vehicles, registered or leased by the 

company, may inspect and affix inspection stickers to the vehicles from the first day of the period 

beginning one month prior to the expiration date of the current inspection stickers through the last day 

of the month of expiration. 

Source . (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

PART Saf-C 3204 APPLICATION FOR OFFICIAL INSPECTION STATION 

Saf-C 3204.01 Applicant. 

(a) An applicant for an inspection station shall be the owner of the business, or in the case of a 

corporation, partnership or other legal entity, a person with specific written authorization to sign the 

application . 

(b) The applicant shall be 18 years of age or older. 

(c) An applicant for a fleet inspection station shall own or lease at least 15 legally registered 

vehicles required to be inspected. Copies of all lease agreements shall be provided to the department, 

upon request. 

Saf-C 3204.02 Application . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

(a) An applicant for an inspection station shall submit a completed form DSMV 24 to the 

department. 

(b) A separate form DSMV 24 shall be filed for each place of business . 

(c) An applicant shall furnish the following on form DSIVIV 24: 

(1) Corporate name; 

(2) Trade name; 

(3) Legal and mailing address; 

(4) List of all owners, partners and officers, including ; 

a . Name; 

b. Home address; 

c. Home telephone number; 

d. Date of birth; 

e. Driver license number; and 

f. Title; 

(5) Days and hours of operation ; 

(6) Length and width of inside garage dimensions; 

(7) Whether the applicant has all required tools and equipment; 

(8) Whether the applicant complies with applicable building codes, zoning and other landuse regulatory ordinances; 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(9) List of all persons authorized to sign the inspection sticker requisition, including ; 

a . Name; 

b. Driver license number; 

c. Sticker type; and 

d. Signature; 

(10) List of all authorized mechanics, including ; 

a. Name; 

b. Home address; 

c. Date of birth; 

d . Home telephone number; 

e . Certificate number listed on the mechanic approval card; and 

f. Type of authorization ; and 

(11) Signature of applicant, pursuant to Saf-C 3204.01(a). 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3204.03 Specification of Type. 

(a) The application shall state the following type of inspection station authorization requested : 

(1) Fleet; 

(2) Government; 

(3) Automobile; 

(4) Motorcycle; or 

(5) Replacement glass. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 10 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, CHAPTER Saf-C 3200 

Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Requirements 

Part Saf-C 3205 APPROVAL PROCESS 

Saf-C 3205.01 Investigation . A law enforcement officer authorized by the department shall contact the 

applicant, at his/her place of business, to determine if the applicant meets the requirements of Saf-C 

3206.01 through Saf-C 3206 .04 . 

Source . (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07; ss by #9184, 

eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3205.02 Local Notificat ion and Approval . 

(a) Upon receipt of a completed form DSMV 24, the department shall notify the town/city clerk 

in the municipality where the business is located . 

(b) The department shall allow 10 working days for the local government to advise whether or 

not the applicant's business conforms with or is in conflict with existing zoning, building code or other 

land-use regulatory requirements. 

(c) In the event the local government fails to advise the department that the applicant is in 

compliance with the requirements of (b) above, a certificate of appointment shall not be issued until the 

department receives notification of compliance from the local government. 

(d) In the event the local government advises the department that the applicant is not in . 

compliance with the requirements of (b) above, a certificate of appointment shall not be issued, and the 

department shall notify the applicant, in writing, of the applicant's responsibility to contact the 

appropriate local board or officials . 

Source . (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3205.03 Attendance at Ins ection School. 

(a) A management representative and all mechanics who seek approval to conduct inspections 

shall attend one session of the department's monthly inspection school which is held at 2 :00 p .m. and 

6:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month in the James Hayes Safety Building, 33 Hazen Drive, 

Concord, NH, or such other location as the director shall determine . Each mechanic shall also be 

required to attend refresher sessions of the monthly inspection school, as necessary . 

(b) In the event a mechanic is deficient in any area necessary to the completion of an inspection, 

the director shall require the mechanic to undergo re-training at the monthly inspection school. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3205.04 Mechanic Field Test. 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 11 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(a) Following attendance at the monthly inspection school, a law enforcement officer authorized 

by the department shall contact those seeking approval to conduct inspections to schedule an 

appointment for a trial inspection . 

(b) The person shall demonstrate his/her ability to inspect a motor vehicle based upon the 

inspection criteria contained in these rules. 

(c) Any mechanic who has not conducted inspections for a period longer than one year shall: 

(1) Attend the inspection school pursuant to Saf-C 3205.03 ; and 

(2) Meet the requirements of (b) above . 

Source . (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07; amd by 

#9184, eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3205 .05 Certificate of Appointment . 

(a) A certificate of appointment shall be issued when the inspection station : 

(1) Meets local approval, pursuant to Saf-C 3205.02; 

(2) Meets the requirements of Saf-C 3205.01 ; 

(3) Has approved personnel to conduct inspections, pursuant to Saf-C 3205.03 and Saf-C 

3205.04 ; and 

(4) Pays the appropriate fee, pursuant to RSA 266:1, V(b). 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3205.06 Issuance of Certificate of Appointment. 

(a) Upon approval of an application, a certificate of appointment, containing a designated station 

number, shall be issued to the inspection station . 

(b) No inspections shall be conducted unless a certificate of appointment has been issued and at 

least one approved mechanic is on duty. 

(c) The inspection station shall prominently display the certificate of appointment at all times. 

(d) A certificate of appointment issued to a fleet inspection station shall authorize the station to 

inspect only those vehicles that are registered or leased to the fleet inspection station . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3205.07 Certificate of Appointment Not Transferred . 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules ~12 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(a) Each certificate of appointment shall be limited to the person in whose name and place of 

business it has been issued . 

(b) A certificate of appointment shall not be transferred to any other person, business or location 

and shall not be altered or modified in any manner. 

(c) A certificate of appointment shall be presented to any law enforcement officer authorized by 

the department upon demand or surrendered to the department, if required, after a hearing. 

Source . (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07; amd by 

#9184, eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3205.08 Renewal of Certificate of Appointment. 

(a) All inspection station certificates of appointment shall expire annually on September 30th . 

(b) In order to renew a certificate of appointment, each inspection station shall : 

(1) Submit a completed form DSMV 24 to the department, pursuant to Saf-C 3204.02; and 

(2) Pay the appropriate fee, pursuant to RSA 266:1, V(b) . 

Source . (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3205.09 Approved Mechanic. 

(a) Each inspection station shall have at least one approved mechanic, pursuant to Saf-C 3205.03 

and Saf-C 3205 .04, to inspect vehicles . 

(b) A mechanic shall inspect only those types of vehicles for which he/she has been approved . 

Source . (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3205.10 Mechanic Approval Card. 

(a) Each mechanic authorized to conduct inspections pursuant to Saf-C 3205.03 and Saf-C 

3205.04 shall be issued a mechanic approval card, form DSMV 168. 

(b) No mechanic approval card shall be issued to any person under the age of 18. 

(c) A mechanic approval card shall be presented to any law enforcement officer authorized by 

the department upon demand or surrendered to the department, if required, after a hearing . 

(d) A mechanic approval card shall not be transferred to any other person, and shall not be 

altered or modified in any manner. 

(e) A mechanic approval card shall expire in the event the mechanic has not conducted 

inspections for a period longer than one year. 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 13 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07; and by 

#9184, eff 6-20-08 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 14 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, CHAPTER Saf-C 3200 

Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Requirements 

Part Saf-C 3206.04 TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT 

(a) Each inspection station shall have the following tools and equipment : 

(1) A brake drum gauge; 

(2) A gauging device to measure the thickness of brake pads; 

(3) A ball joint gauge; 

(4) A lift or jack, capable of hoisting a vehicle to check its : 

a . Ball joints ; 

b . Suspension linkage ; 

c. Wheel play; 

d . Exhaust system; 

e . Undercarriage ; and 

f . Frame of the vehicle ; 

(5) Tools necessary for the proper assembly and disassembly of any parts, which shall 

include : 

a . Hammers; 

b. Portable lights ; 

c. Socket sets, including metric sizes; 

d. Wrenches, including open and box end ; 

e. Screwdrivers; and 

f. Electrical test lights; 

(6) Headlight aimer(s) or headlight board capable of determining the proper headlight angle 

of all vehicles to be inspected; 

(7) Tint meter, if the station inspects vehicles with tinted glass; 

(8) An on-board diagnostic scan tool authorized by the department capable of 

communicating with vehicles equipped with the OBD system; 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 15 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(9) Computer software and hardware authorized by the department, if conducting 

electronic safety inspections; and 

(10) Any other tools necessary to conduct a proper vehicle inspection. 

Source. (See Revision Note #1 at chapter heading for SafC 3200) #5250, eff 10-21-91; ss by #6603, INTERIM, eff 

10-18-97, EXPIRES : 2-15-98; ss by #6664, eff 12-30-97; ss 

by #7731, amd by #7731, eff 7-26-02; amd by #8530, 

INTERIM, eff 12-24-05, EXPIRED 6-22-06 (paragraph (a) 

and subparagraphs (b)(1)-(7)) ; amd by #8915, eff 6-22-07 

(paragraph (a) and subparagraphs (b)(1)-(7)) (See 

Revision Note #2 at chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) 

(formerly Saf-C 3205.04); amd by #9184, eff 6-20-08 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 16 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, CHAPTER Saf-C 3200 

Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Requirements 

PART Saf-C 3207 INSPECTION STATIONS 

Saf-C 3207 .01 Days and Hours of Operation . 

(a) For the purposes of this section, "regular business hours" means the days and hours that an 

inspection station is open to conduct inspections . 

(b) Each inspection station shall set forth its regular business hours on form DSMV 24. The 

inspection station owner shall promptly inform the department, in writing, of any changes in its regular 

business hours . 

(c) An inspection station that will be temporarily closed for inspections for longer than one 

consecutive week at a time, shall notify the department, in writing, no later than 30 days prior to the 

date of temporary closure . 

(d) An inspection station closed pursuant to (c) above, shall inform the department of the name 

and telephone number of at least one person who will be available during the period of closure for the 

department to contact, in the event it is necessary to do so . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3207.02 Change of Ownership. 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 17 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, CHAPTER Saf-C 3200 

Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Requirements 

Part Saf-C 3209 OBTAINING INSPECTION STICKERS 

Saf-C 3209 .01 Ordering Stickers. 

(a) All stickers shall be ordered, in writing, on form DSMV 142, or similar form. Electronic 

requests shall be accepted as long as the request contains the signature of a person authorized to order 

stickers . 

(b) The written request pursuant to (a) above shall include the following: 

(1) Inspection station number; 

(2) Type of sticker requested : 

a. Motor vehicle stickers and color; 

b . Motorcycle stickers and color; or 

c. Monthly insert decals; 

(3) Name and address of business ; 

(4) Number of stickers ; and 

(5) Signature of person authorized to order stickers . 

(c) Each inspection station shall allow a period of 10 days for requests by mail to be processed . 

(d) Each fleet inspection station shall order a sufficient number of inspection stickers to allow 

them to inspect vehicles registered or leased in the name of the company, and vehicles registered to any 

listed corporate officials . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3209 .02 Counter Service . 

(a) The department shall provide counter service in Concord or at any substation for inspection 

sticker purchases and to accept the return of unused stickers and sticker stub books. 

(b) Inspection stickers shall be sold to persons authorized by the inspection station on the form 

set forth in Saf-C 3209.01 . The names of additional persons authorized to purchase stickers shall be filed 

at the department, in writing . 

(c) Each person authorized to purchase inspection stickers who appears at the counter shall 

provide proper identification before obtaining any stickers . 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 18 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(d) For the purposes of (c) above, "proper identification" shall include : 

(1) Driver license; 

(2) Military card; 

(3) Passport; or 

(4) Non-driver identification card, as long it contains a photograph. 

(e) Notwithstanding (c) above, inspection stickers shall be sold at the counter to persons not 

authorized on the prescribed form to purchase stickers, as long as the person produces a written 

request containing the signature of an authorized person, which is on file with the department . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3209.03 Pa. 

(a) All inspection sticker purchases shall be accompanied by the appropriate fee, pursuant to RSA 

2.66 :2 . 

(b) Payment shall be in the form of cash, check, money order or accepted credit cards. 

(c) Checks and money orders shall be made payable to the "State of New Hampshire - DMV" . 

Alternative terms, including but not limited to "State of New Hampshire - Safety", "New Hampshire 

Department of Safety", "Treasurer - State of New Hampshire" or "Director of Motor Vehicles" shall not 

be cause for refusal, provided it does not lend itself to endorsement by any party other than the State of 

New Hampshire . 

(d) Payments received without a written request or requisition for inspection stickers shall be 

returned unprocessed . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3209.04 Safekeeping and Security. 

(a) Each inspection station shall immediately report possible errors, misprints, skips in 

numbering or missing stickers to the department. 

(b) Inspection stations shall not sell, loan or give stickers to any other station . 

(c) Each inspection station shall account for every sticker issued. Stickers shall be kept under lock 

and key and not accessible to the public . 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 19 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(d) Each station owner shall return completed sticker booklets to the department no later than 

30 days following the removal of the last valid sticker from the book. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3209.05 Control . 

(a) Inspection stickers shall not be transferred to any other station once issued to a purchasing 

station . 

(b) Inspection stickers shall only be affixed to the vehicle shown on the mechanic's work stub in 

the inspection booklet. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3209.06 Document Mailings . The department shall assume no responsibility for sticker 

stubs or books received with postage due . Inspection stations which make the mailings shall be 

responsible for full payment of postage. 

Source . (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3209.07 Credit for Unused Stickers. 

(a) Unused stickers shall be turned in for a credit voucher . 

(b) Damaged stickers shall be returned to the department but no credit voucher shall be issued. 

(c) No credit shall be allowed during a period in which any returned stickers are currently valid, 

unless the inspection station is going out of business . 

(d) No credit shall be allowed for inspection stickers older than the previous inspection period . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3209 .08 Issuance of New Stickers. 

(a) New stickers shall be issued in minimum quantities of one full book. 

(b) A full book of motor vehicle stickers shall have 25 stickers. 

(c) A full book of motorcycle stickers shall have 30 stickers . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 20 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

Saf-C 3209.09 Missing Stickers. 

(a) In the event an inspection station owner discovers sticker(s) which are missing, he/she shall 

immediately notify the local police department. 

(b) The notification in (a) above shall include : 

(1) The number of missing or stolen stickers ; and 

(2) The number listed on each missing or stolen sticker. 

(c) In addition to (a) above, the inspection station owner shall immediately contact the 

department and follow up in writing . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 21 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, CHAPTER Saf-C 3200 

Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Requirements 

PART Saf-C 3210 INSPECTION OF VEHICLE REGISTRATION AND TIME FOR INSPECTION 

Saf-C 3210.01 Verification of Information . 

(a) Prior to inspecting any vehicle, the mechanic shall examine the registration certificate, plates, 

vehicle description and vehicle identification number. The mechanic shall advise the owner of any error. 

(b) The mechanic shall examine the registration certificate of any homemade vehicle to ensure 

the certificate shows the vehicle is registered as a composite and that the vehicle has a state issued 

vehicle identification number beginning with "NH" . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3210.02 Correction of Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). 

(a) If the VIN on the registration certificate does not match the number on the VIN plate of the 

vehicle, the mechanic shall : 

(1) Make corrections to the VIN on the registration certificate of up to 3 digits or 3 letters, 

by drawing a slash " / " mark through the incorrect digit or letter and placing the correct 

digit or letter above it ; 

(2) Complete a correction slip, form DSMV 28C, and place it in a separate envelope marked 

"VIN corrections" to be forwarded to the department; 

(3) Furnish the following on form DSMV 28C: 

a. Plate number and type; 

b . Expiration date of plate; 

c . Owner's name, address and date of birth; 

d. Incorrect VIN; 

e. Correct VIN; 

f . Mechanic's signature and date signed; and 

g . Inspection station name and address. 

(b) If more than 3 digits or 3 letters are incorrect on the VIN, corrections shall be made by the 

department. No inspection sticker shall be issued until the VIN has been corrected. 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 22 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(c) In the event a vehicle identification number plate is missing or has been tampered with, for 

example, is missing pop rivets, the mechanic shall reject the vehicle and notify the department. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3210.03 Registration Plates . 

(a) The mechanic shall inspect the registration plates and reject the vehicle if it fails to meet any 

of the following: 

(1) The registration plates shall be securely mounted on the exterior of the vehicle in the 

locations provided by the manufacturer . Vehicles which display special number plates 

pursuant to RSA 261 :91 shall be inspected even though the registration certificate reflects a 

different number; 

(2) When 2 registration plates are issued, one shall be mounted on the front of the vehicle 

and the second shall be mounted on the rear; 

(3) If no location has been provided by the manufacturer, the registration plates shall be 

securely mounted with a bracket or comparable method in a visible location, and the rear 

plate shall be illuminated by a white license plate light when the headlights or parking lights 

are on; 

(4) The registration plates shall be mounted right side up; 

(5) If the ball of a trailer hitch is mounted in a manner that obscures the numbers or 

characters on the rear plate, the ball shall be removed or inverted so that the plate is not 

obscured; 

(6) The numbers, characters or identification of the plates as New Hampshire plates shall 

not be covered up or obscured; and 

(7) The color of the registration plates shall be the color issued by the department. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3210.04 Internatio nal Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) Validation Stickers . 

(a) A qualified motor vehicle which operates in New Hampshire and at least one other 

jurisdiction shall be rejected if it does not display valid IFTA stickers on the driver side and passenger 

side door. 

(b) For the purposes of (a) above, "qualified motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle which is used, 

designed or maintained for transportation of persons or property and which: 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 23 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(1) Has 2 axles and a gross vehicle weight or registered gross vehicle weight in excess of 

26,000 pounds or 11,797 kilograms; 

(2) Has 3 or more axles; or 

(3) Is used in combination, when the gross vehicle weight or registered gross vehicle 

weight of such combination is in excess of 26,000 pounds or 11,797 kilograms. 

(c) For the purposes of (a) above, "qualified motor vehicle" shall not include recreation vehicles . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3210.05 Time for inspection. 

(a) Unless specifically stated otherwise in these rules, all passenger vehicles shall be inspected 

annually during the owner's month of birth or the month set forth in Saf-C 3203.02, for a corporation . 

(b) Recreation vehicles, as defined in RSA 259:84-a, shall be inspected annually, by July 1 of each 

year. 

(c) Notwithstanding (a) and (b) above, newly registered passenger and recreation vehicles shall 

be inspected within 10 days from the date of registration, pursuant to RSA 266:1, IV. 

(d) Notwithstanding (a) and (b) above, all new vehicles purchased at retail from a licensed dealer 

shall be inspected no later than 30 days after the date of transfer, pursuant to RSA 266:1, IV. 

Source . (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 24 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, CHAPTER Saf-C 3200 

Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Requirements 

PART Saf-C 3218 EXHAUST SYSTEM 

Saf-C 3218.01 Inspecti on of Exhaust System. 

(a) The exhaust system, including the exhaust pipe, muffler, resonator, catalytic converter, 

tailpipe, hangers, brackets and all other component parts shall be inspected for leakage, improper 

fastening or excessive noise pursuant to RSA 266:59 . 

(b) All vehicles shall be equipped with mufflers in good working condition and shall meet the 

requirements of RSA 266:59 . 

(c) All replacement exhaust systems shall meet the requirements of RSA 266 :59 . Trucks that are 

not equipped with a camper or other enclosed structure for carrying passengers may be inspected 

without a tail pipe, as long as the muffler extends past the passenger compartment and has a down 

spout. 

(d) A vehicle shall be rejected if: 

(1) It has no tailpipe or muffler ; 

(2) There are holes, rusted or worn surfaces in any component parts or supporting 

hardware; 

(3) There are loose or leaking joints or leaking seams in any section ; 

(4) Any portion of the exhaust system is not securely fastened; 

(5) Any portion of the exhaust system passes through the passenger compartment or trunk; 

(6) Muffler jackets or flexible pipe, which does not seal itself, is used in the exhaust system; 

(7) The tail pipe end is pinched or damaged; 

(8) The muffler has loose or missing interior baffles, or holes which have been repaired with 

patches; 

(9) There is a muffler cut-out, muffler by-pass or similar device which allows excessive or 

unusual noise; or 

(10) Excessive fumes, smoke, flame, gas, oil or fuel residue escapes in violation of RSA 

266:59 . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3218.02 Outside Pipes. 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 25 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(a) The outside pipe, side-pipe or exhaust pipe shall meet the following requirements: 

(1) The muffler shall be installed according to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications and 

shall not give off excessive noise, fumes, smoke, flame, gas, oil or fuel residue, pursuant to 

RSA 266:59 ; 

(2) No exhaust gases shall enter the passenger compartment; 

(3) Any flexi-type exhaust piping shall be self-sealing, free of leaks, holes, patches or 

defects, properly fastened to the vehicle and used only on the exhaust side of the emission 

control system; and 

(4) No portion of the exhaust system or exhaust pipe shall extend, in a horizontal direction, 

beyond the limits of the vehicle's fender wells without heat shielding . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 26 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, CHAPTER Saf-C 3200 

Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Requirements 

PART Saf-C 3220 EMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS 

Saf-C 3220.01 Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) . 

(a) A PCV valve shall be required on all vehicles less than 20 model years old, if so equipped at 

the time of manufacture . 

(b) A vehicle shall be rejected if : 

(1) The PCV valve is missing ; 

(2) It is plainly obvious that the PCV valve does not function; or 

(3) Any hoses associated with the PCV system are missing or do not function. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3220.02 Air Iniection Pump/Pulse Air System. 

(a) The air injection pump/pulse air system shall be required on all vehicles less than 20 model 

years old, if so equipped at the time of manufacture . 

(b) A vehicle shall be rejected if: 

(1) The air injection pump/pulse air system is missing ; 

(2) It is plainly obvious that the air injection pump/pulse air system does not function ; or 

(3) Any hoses associated with the air injection pump/pulse air system are missing or do not 

function . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3220.03 Inspection of Fuel System . In addition to Saf-C 3219.01(a)(3), a vehicle shall be 

rejected if the fuel filler cap is : 

(1) Missing; 

(2) Loose; 

(3) Degraded to the point that vapors could escape; or 

(4) Improperly fitted. 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 27 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

Saf-C 3220.04 Evaporative Canister . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

(a) An evaporative canister shall be required on all vehicles less than 20 model years old, if so 

equipped at the time of manufacture . 

(b) A vehicle shall be rejected if : 

(1) The evaporative canister is missing; 

(2) It is plainly obvious that the evaporative canister does not function ; or 

(3) Any hoses, wires or cables associated with the evaporative canister are missing or do 

not function . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3220.05 Inspection of Exhaust System . 

(a) A catalytic converter shall be required on all vehicles less than 20 model years old, if so 

equipped at the time of manufacture . 

(b) A vehicle shall be rejected if : 

(1) The catalytic converter is missing; or 

(2) It is plainly obvious that the catalytic converter does not function . 

Saf-C 3220.06 Replacement Parts. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

(a) An inspection station shall make a reasonable effort to obtain replacement parts for 

equipment set forth in RSA 266 :59-b, I(a)(1) through (5) . For the purposes of this rule, "reasonable 

effort" means any combination of 3 telephone calls to parts dealers, original equipment manufacturers 

or other secondary market sources. 

(b) If replacement parts are unavailable, the inspection station shall so indicate on the inspection 

form and the vehicle shall pass that portion of the inspection . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 28 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, CHAPTER Saf-C 3200 

Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Requirements 

PART Saf-C 3222 ON-BOARD DIOAGNOSTIC SYSTEM 

Saf-C 3222 .01 Applicabilitv. 

(a) Notwithstanding Saf-C 3203.01(a)(10), the OBD inspection pursuant to this part shall apply to 

the following vehicles : 

(1) Model year 1996 and newer light-duty gasoline vehicles and light-duty gasoline trucks ; 

and 

(2) Model year 1997 and newer light-duty diesel vehicles and light-duty diesel trucks . 

(b) The year of the engine, as specified by the manufacturer, shall determine whether an OBD 

inspection is required pursuant to (a) above. New engines, as specified by the manufacturer, built to 

replicate older model vehicle engines, shall be considered to be the year of the engine being replicated. 

(c) Notwithstanding Saf-C 3203 .01(a)(10) or any other rule to the contrary, the OBD inspection 

pursuant to this part shall not apply to the following vehicles : 

(1) Street rods, if equipped with an engine manufactured prior to the year 1996; 

(2) Replicas, if equipped with an engine manufactured prior to the year 1996; 

(3) Motorcycles; or 

(4) Vehicles 20 or more model years old . 

Source . #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at 

chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 

3223.01); ss by #9184, eff 6-20-OS 

Saf-C 3222.02 Definitions . For the purposes of this part, the following definitions shall apply: 

(a) "Data link connector" (DLC) means the physical connector/electrical interface between the 

vehicle's OBD system and the OBD scan tool or other communications equipment authorized by the 

department. 

(b) "Diagnostic trouble code" (DTC) means the 5 digit alpha-numeric fault codes set forth in SAE 

J2012, December of 2007, which identify the component or components that cause illumination of the 

MIL. 

Source . #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at 

chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 

3223 .02) ; ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3222.03 0BD Inspection. 

(a) All OBD inspections shall be conducted in accordance with the requirements of 40 CFR 

85 .2222 . 

(b) All results of the OBD inspection shall be reported to the department electronically . 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 29 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(c) The mechanic shall furnish the following to the department electronically : 

(1) Date of inspection; 

(2) Inspection station name and certification number; 

(3) Mechanic's name and identification number; 

(4) The vehicle's : 

a . Year of manufacture ; 

b. Make; 

) 

c. Model; 

d . Fuel type; 

e. Mileage; 

f. Vehicle identification number; and 

g. Registration plate number; 

(5) Make and model of scan tool; 

(6) Indication as to whether the DLC is missing, has been tampered with, is damaged 

or is inoperable; 

a . The MIL is commanded on or off; 

b. The MIL is illuminated with ignition key in "key on engine off" position ; 

c. The MIL is illuminated with engine running; and 

d . The vehicle can communicate with the scan tool ; 

(8) Support and readiness status of the : 

a. Catalyst monitor; 

b. Heated catalyst monitor; 

c. Evaporative system monitor; 

d. Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) monitor; 

e. Oxygen (02) sensor(s) monitor(s); 

f. Heated 02 sensor(s) monitor(s); 

g. Secondary air monitor; and 

Indication as to whether: 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 30 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

h . A/C refrigeration monitor, if vehicle is so equipped; 

(9) Diagnostic trouble codes, if applicable; 

(10) OBD diagnostic inspection results; 

(11) Sticker number; and 

(12) Repairs made, if applicable . 

(d) A vehicle subject to the OBD inspection shall be rejected if : 

(1) The DLC is missing, has been tampered with, is damaged or is otherwise inoperable; 

(2) The MIL does not illuminate with the ignition key in the "key on, engine off" position; 

(3) The MIL is illuminated when the engine is running; 

(4) The MIL is commanded "on" for one or more OBD diagnostic trouble codes; 

(5) The MIL is commanded to be illuminated and does not visually illuminate; 

(6) Monitors reveal a "not ready" status in accordance with (e) below; or 

(7) The vehicle cannot communicate with the scan tool . 

(e) A vehicle shall be rejected for testing, and the customer shall be instructed to return after the 

vehicle has been run under conditions that allow completion of all applicable on-board tests if: 

(1) A scan of the OBD system reveals a "not ready" status for 3 or more monitors on 

manufacture years 1996 through 2000 vehicles, inclusive ; or 

(2) A scan of the OBD system reveals a "not ready" status for 2 or more monitors on 

manufacture years 2001 and newer vehicles. 

(f) If a vehicle is rejected pursuant to (d) or (e) above and the vehicle fails to return for and pass 

an inspection by the sixtieth day following the inspection, the mechanic shall furnish the following to 

the department electronically : 

(1) Date of inspection; 

(2) Inspection station name and certification number; 

(3) Mechanic's name and identification number; 

(4) The vehicle's : 

a . Year of manufacture ; 

b. Make; 

c. Model; and 

d . Vehicle identification number; 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 31 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(5) A list of diagnostic trouble codes and readiness items that were cause for rejection(s) ; 

and 

(6) Date vehicle due to be reinspected/repaired, which shall be no later than 60 days 

from the date of inspection. 

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at 

chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 

3223.03); ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3222.04 Tampering With the Emission Control System of a Vehicle . 

(a) For the purposes of this section, "tamper with" means to permanently remove, bypass, 

defeat or otherwise render inoperable, any portion of an emission control system, including software, 

that is installed in or on a motor vehicle . 

(b) If, during a safety inspection or OBD inspection, a mechanic determines that any portion of an 

emission control system has been tampered with pursuant to (a) above, the mechanic shall report, in 

writing, the details of such tampering to the department . 

(c) Upon receipt of a report pursuant to (b) above, the department shall notify the EPA for any 

action it deems appropriate . 

(d) If a mechanic tampers with any portion of an emission control system pursuant to (a) above, 

the mechanic shall be subject to an administrative hearing pursuant to RSA 266 :1, XI(a) and PART Saf-C 

3248 . 

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at 

chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 

3223 .04); ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3222.05 Test Results . 

(a) The inspection station shall provide the customer with a printed report containing the same 

information as required in Saf-C 3222.03(b), including the following : 

(1) The 01313-related diagnostic trouble codes retrieved that are cause(s) for rejection ; 

(2) The name of the component or system associated with each diagnostic trouble code 

retrieved ; and 

(3) Whether the MIL is commanded "on" or "off' . 

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at 

chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 

3223.05) ; ss and renumbered by #9184, eff 6-20-08 

(from Saf-C 3222 .04) 

Saf-C 3222.06 Exemptions fro m Reiection Criteria . 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 32 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(a) The following vehicles shall not be rejected for inspection due to "readiness" status as set 

forth in Saf-C 3222 .03(d) : 

(1) All new vehicles with an odometer reading of less than 1000 miles; 

(2) All vehicles whose model year is the current calendar year minus one or newer; 

(3) All models of 1996 Subaru; 

(4) All models of 1996-1998 Mitsubishi; 

(5) Chevrolet Tracker, model years 1996 and 1997; 

(6) Dodge Viper, model year 2003; 

(7) Ford Probe GT, model years 1996 and 1997; 

(8) Hyundai Accent, model years 1996 and 1999; 

(9) Hyundai Elantra, model years 1996 and 1999; 

(10) Hyundai Sonata 2.OL engine only, model years 1996-1998; 

(11) Kia Sephia, model year 1996; 

(12) 

(13) 

(14) 

(15) 

(16) 

(17) 

Kia Sportage, model year 1996; 

Mazda Protege, model year 1996; 

Plymouth Breeze, model year 2000; 

Porsche 911, model years 1996 and 1997; 

Saab 900/9000, model years 1996 and 1997; 

Suzuki Sidekick, model year 1996; 

(18) Volvo 850, model years 1996 and 1997; 

(19) Volvo 850 turbo, model year 1996; 

(20) Volvo S70, model year 1998; 

(21) Volvo S90, model year 1998; 

(22) Volvo V70, model year 1998; and 

(23) Volkswagen Passat, model year 1996. 

(b) The vehicles set forth in (a) above are subject to all other OBD inspection requirements set 

forth in Saf-C 3222.03(c). 

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at 

chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 33 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

3223 .06); ss and renumbered by #9184, eff 6-20-08 

(from Saf-C 3222.05) 

Saf-C 3222 .07 Electronic Administrator's Certificate . 

(a) Any vehicle that does not pass an OBD inspection due to issues as specified by the 

manufacturer, yet meets all other safety inspection requirements, shall be eligible for an administrator's 

certificate, upon consultation with and agreement by the EPA, which shall be maintained electronically . 

(b) An electronic administrator's certificate shall : 

(1) Permit an inspection station to issue a valid inspection sticker for the vehicle until the 

next inspection is required pursuant to RSA 266 :1 ; and 

(2) Be non-transferable . 

(c) An inspection station shall be permitted to reissue an electronic administrator's certificate at 

each ensuing inspection for the same vehicle as long as the requirements of (a) above are met. 

Source. #9184, eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3222.08 Econo mic Hardship Waiver. 

(a) Pursuant to RSA 266:59-b, V, if a vehicle has failed the OBD inspection, yet meets all other 

safety inspection requirements, a person who cannot make the necessary repairs due to economic 

hardship may apply to the division for an economic hardship waiver. 

(b) An applicant for an economic hardship waiver shall submit the following to the department 

on the prescribed form: 

(1) Description of vehicle, including : 

a. Manufacturer; 

b. Year and model; and 

c. Vehicle identification number (VIN); 

(2) Approximate number of miles driven per year; 

(3) Name and address of employer, if applicable; 

(4) Complete list of all forms of annual financial income from all sources; 

(5) Complete list and description of any other motor vehicles owned by the applicant ; 

(6) A detailed explanation as to the reasons why necessary OBD repairs constitute an 

economic hardship; and 

(7) Signature of applicant under the penalty of unsworn falsification . 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 34 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(c) The applicant shall provide a copy of the report generated by the inspection station that 

indicates that the vehicle has passed the safety inspection and identifies the reason(s) for the OBD 

failure, when the application is submitted . 

(d) The applicant shall provide a copy of at least one estimate from a recognized repair 

technician of the cost to complete the necessary OBD repairs, when the application is submitted . 

(e) All applications for an economic hardship waiver shall be submitted to the OBD program 

assistant, department of safety, division of motor vehicles, 23 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03305. 

(f) The director shall grant or deny the completed application for an economic hardship waiver, 

establishing the broadest possible waiver for applicants, in accordance with RSA 266:59-b. 

(g) The division shall notify the applicant, in writing, whether the economic hardship waiver has 

been granted or denied. The director's decision shall be final . 

(h) If the economic hardship waiver is granted, the person shall keep the waiver in the vehicle at 

all times . 

(i) An economic hardship waiver shall be valid for a period of one year and shall not be renewed 

for that vehicle, including in the event the vehicle has a transfer of ownership. 

Source. #9184, eff 6-20-08 

Saf-C 3222.09 Exemption from Visual Inspect ion Requirements. 

(a) Vehicles that are subject to the OBD inspection, pursuant to this part, shall be exempt from 

the following visual inspections : 

(1) PVC valve, pursuant to Saf-C 3220.01 ; 

(2) Air injection pump/pulse air system, pursuant to Saf-C 3220.02; 

(3) Fuel system, pursuant to Saf-C 3220.03 ; 

(4) Evaporative canister, pursuant to Saf-C 3220.04 ; and 

(5) Exhaust, pursuant to Saf-C 3220.05 . 

Source. #9184, eff 6-20-08 (from Saf-C 3222 .06) 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 35 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, CHAPTER Saf-C 3200 

Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Requirements 

PART Saf-C 3248 ADMINISTRATIVE FINES AND HEARINGS 

Saf-C 3248.01 Ad ministrative Fines. 

(a) For the purposes of this section, a violation means one or more infractions cited as a result of 

a single review or visit to the inspection station on a specific date. 

(b) For the purposes of establishing a subsequent violation, the subsequent violation shall have 

occurred within 3 years from the date of the final administrative disposition of the previous violation . . 

(c) In the event a hearings examiner recommends a fine as a matter of disposition after a 

hearing, the fine shall not take effect until the commissioner approves it . 

(d) In the event a fine is imposed pursuant to (c) above, the order from the hearings examiner 

shall state that payment shall be made within 30 days of receipt of the order. 

(e) For the purposes of (d) above, an order shall be sent by first class mail and receipt shall be 

presumed to have occurred 3 days after the order is mailed . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3248 .02 Payme nt of Fines. 

(a) In the event a fine is imposed, an inspection station shall pay the fine in full within 30 days of 

receipt of the order. Fines may be paid by mail or in person. 

(b) In the event a fine is paid by mail, payment shall be in the form of a personal check, cashier's 

check or money order. All payments of fines by mail shall be addressed to: 

Department of Safety 

Administrative Fine Payment 

James H. Hayes Building 

33 Hazen Drive 

Concord, NH 03305 

(c) In the event a fine is paid in person, it shall be made at the department at 33 Hazen Drive, 

Concord, NH 03305, room 108 . Payment shall be made in the form of cash, a personal check, cashier's 

check or money order. 

(d) For the purposes of (b) and (c) above, all checks or money orders shall be made payable to 

"New Hampshire Department of Safety" or "NH Department of Safety" . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 36 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

Saf-C 3248.03 Protested Checks. 

(a) When any check is in payment of a fine and returned to the department as uncollectible : 

(1) The check shall not be redeposited; and 

(2) The business office shall forward an advisory letter to the signer of the check which 

contains : 

a. Notification that the check has been returned and the reason; 

b. Notification that the check cannot be redeposited ; 

c. A request for restitution of the full amount of the check in addition to the penalty 

authorized by RSA 6:11-a; 

d. Notification that payment shall be made by certified check, money order or cash; 

e. Notification that payment made by mail, it shall be by certified check or money 

order; and 

f. Notification that payment shall be made payable to "State of New Hampshire -

Administrative Fine Payment", and addressed to: 

Department of Safety 

Business Office 

James H. Hayes Building 

33 Hazen Drive 

Concord, N.H. 03305 

(b) Nothing contained in this rule shall preclude the department from : 

(1) Pursuant to Saf-C 211.01, suspending any vehicle registered to an inspection station that 

issued a bad check; or 

(2) Pursuant to RSA 638:4, seeking criminal prosecution of any person or inspection station 

that issued a bad check. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3248.04 Nonpayment of Fines. 

(a) In the event the department does not receive a fine payment by its due date, the department 

shall send notice to the inspection station to appear at an administrative hearing to show cause why all 

inspection station privileges should not be suspended for nonpayment of the administrative fine. 

above. 

(b) The hearing shall be scheduled no earlier than 14 days from the date of the notice in (a) 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 37 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(c) The hearing shall be limited to whether the administrative fine was paid. 

(d) In the event the hearings examiner finds that an inspection station has not paid its 

administrative fine, the inspection station's privileges shall be suspended pending receipt by the 

department of the administrative fine paid in full . 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3248.05 Appeal of an Administrative Fine. 

(a) Any appeal from an administrative fine shall be in accordance with the provisions of RSA 541. 

(b) Any appeal filed pursuant to this section shall not suspend payment of the fine. 

(c) In the event a fine is overturned on appeal, the department shall, pursuant to the court's 

order, refund the fine within 30 working days of the receipt of the court's order. 

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Saf-C 3248.06 Administrative Hearing. 

(a) Upon receipt of information as specified in RSA 266:1, XI(a), the director shall provide the 

inspection station and/or mechanic with an opportunity for an administrative hearing. 

(b) Hearings shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Saf-C 203 . 

(c) The scope of the hearing shall be limited to a determination of whether the inspection station 

and/or mechanic violated any provision of the inspection laws or these rules. 

(d) After a hearing, a hearings examiner shall suspend the inspection station's privileges and/or 

mechanic approval card if there is a finding that the inspection station and/or mechanic violated any 

provision of the inspection laws or these rules or shall impose an administrative fine as set forth in Saf-C 

3248 .01. Pursuant to RSA 266 :1, XI(a), a hearings examiner shall not impose both an administrative fine 

and suspension of the inspection station's privileges in the same proceeding. 

(e) A hearings examiner shall determine the appropriate sanction based upon the following 

factors : 

(1) The severity of the offense ; 

(2) The number of offenses committed; and 

(3) Whether the inspection station and/or mechanic has committed prior offenses . 

Source . (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 

3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 38 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, CHAPTER Saf-C 58002 

Roadside Diesel Opacity Inspection 

Applicable Sections 

Z HTML version available at : http ://www.gencourt .state.nh .us/rutes/state agencies/saf-c5800 .html 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 39 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules, CHAPTER Saf-C 5800 

Roadside Diesel Opacity Inspection 

PART Saf-C 5801 PURPOSE AND SCOPE 

Saf-C 5801.01 Statement of Intent . The purpose of these rules is to implement a roadside heavy-duty 

diesel emissions testing program mandated by the New Hampshire Legislature as part 1998 NH Laws 

207 . The law was passed pursuant to the State's agreement with the Federal Environmental Protection 

Agency on an overall clean air strategy under the provisions of the federal Clean Air Act Amendments of 

1990. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5801.02 Applicability . These rules shall apply to all diesel powered motor vehicles with a 

manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or more and all diesel-powered buses 

manufactured to carry 25 or more passengers, whether these vehicles are registered in New Hampshire 

or another jurisdiction . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5801 .03 Incorporation by Reference. Diesel smoke opacity testing shall be conducted in 

accordance with The Society of Automotive Engineers' (SAE) J1667 "Snap Acceleration Smoke Test 

Procedure." 

Source . #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

PART Saf-C 5802 DEFINITIONS 

Saf-C 5802.01 Construction of Terms. For the purposes of this rule, the following words and terms have 

the following meanings when used in the text of the rule. Other technical terms that may be used in the 

rule in reference to the SAE 11667 test procedure but not defined herein, shall have the meanings 

defined in the SAE J1667 test procedure . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802.02 "Black smoke" means smoke emitted from the exhaust stack of a diesel-powered vehicle 

that has a dark value with no color hues other than black. 

Source . #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802.03 "Blue smoke" means smoke emitted from the stack or engine area of a diesel-powered 

vehicle that, using the visible light spectrum as a guide, displays an obvious hue of the color blue. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802 .04 "Commissioner" means the Commissioner of the Department of Safety. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802 .05 "Department" means the New Hampshire Department of Safety. 

Source . #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802.06 . "Diesel-powered" means a vehicle using diesel fuel and a compression ignition type 

engine . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 40 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

Saf-C 5802.07 "Director" means the director of the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802.08 "Division" means New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802 .09 "Driver" means the person driving the vehicle at the time of pullover. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802.10 "Emissions" or "exhaust emissions" means any substances, including liquids and solids, 

emitted in the gaseous stream released into the atmosphere from any opening downstream from the 

exhaust ports of a motor vehicle engine. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802.11 "Exhaust stack diameter" or "stack diameter" means the diameter of the appropriate 

portion of the vehicle's exhaust piping, as determined by the SAE J1667 test procedures, that may be 

measured and entered into the smokemeter as part of the diesel opacity test. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802.12 "Governor" means a device on the diesel engine installed by the manufacturer for the 

purposes of limiting maximum engine RPM . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802.13 "Gross vehicle weight rating" or "GVWR" means the weight specified by the manufacturer 

as the maximum loaded weight of a single or combination vehicle . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802 .14 "Heavy-duty diesel vehicle" or "HDDV" means a diesel-powered vehicle or bus with a 

GVWR of 10,000 pounds or more . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802.15 "Opacity" means the extent to which black exhaust, as measured by a smokemeter and 

expressed as a percentage, blocks the transmission of light (e .g ., smoke that completely blocks out all 

light has 100% opacity) . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802 .16 "Owner" means the person or business entity that owns, leases or is otherwise primarily 

responsible for the registration, operation and maintenance of the subject vehicle . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802.17 "Quick Screen" means the process by which a subject vehicle initially selected for pullover 

may be exempted from the full SAE J1667 test procedure by performing two "snaps" of the accelerator 

pedal and displaying no visible black smoke . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802.18 "SAE J1667" means the Society of Automotive Engineers' J1667 Snap Acceleration Smoke 

Test Procedure recommended for diesel smoke opacity testing . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 41 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

Saf-C 5802 .19 "Smoke" means the emissions, including any solid or liquid substance, released into the . 

atmosphere as a result of combustion. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802.20 "Smokemeter" means a device used for the measurement of the smoke or exhaust 

emissions of a diesel-powered motor vehicle . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802 .21 "Snap acceleration" means the SAE J1667 test procedure and refers to the rapid 

depression of the accelerator pedal by the vehicle operator in order to reach maximum governed RPM 

as part of the test. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5802.22 "Subject vehicle" means any vehicle that may be subject to testing as listed in Saf-C 

5801.02 and not otherwise exempted from testing . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

PART Saf-C 5803 INSPECTION REQUIRED 

Saf-C 5803.01 Vehicle Inspection . 

(a) All heavy-duty diesel-powered trucks, and all diesel-powered buses manufactured to carry 25 or 

more passengers operating on the highways, roads and public ways of New Hampshire may be 

subjected to roadside diesel opacity testing . 

(b) Testing shall be performed by officers of the New Hampshire State Police Bureau of Highway 

Enforcement, in cooperation with the Air Resources Division of the Department of Environmental 

Services. 

(c) Testing shall be conducted as part of normal Bureau operations, either in conjunction with Motor 

Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP) inspections or other heavy duty vehicle enforcement duties . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5803 .02 Exemptions. 

(a) The following HDDVs shall be exempt from the SAE 11667 test procedure: 

(1) All federal vehicles, including military vehicles . 

(2) Vehicles that pass the initial "Quick Screen" process upon being selected for 

pullover. 

(3) Vehicles that have : 

a. Within the previous year, passed a diesel opacity test in New 

Hampshire or any other state that conducts opacity testing, and 

b. Can present written record of such a passed diesel opacity test, or 

c. Within the previous year have failed a diesel opacity test in New 

Hampshire or any other state that conducts diesel testing and can 

present written record of repairs appropriate to an emissions violation . 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 42 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(b) Notwithstanding (a), above, officers may require an opacity test of any subject vehicle that appears 

to be emitting visible black smoke such that said vehicle would otherwise not qualify for an exemption 

under the Quick Screen procedure described in Saf-C 5804.02, below. 

(c) The Commissioner may make provisions for recognizing the results of opacity tests substantially 

similar to the SAE J1667 test procedure that within the previous 12 months have been performed by 

other states or provinces on a subject vehicle selected for pullover in New Hampshire . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

PART Saf-C 5804 TEST PROCEDURES AND STANDARDS 

Saf-C 5804.01 Initial Pullover. 

(a) Subject vehicles shall be selected for pullover as part of normal operations. 

(b) Vehicles shall be observed for smoke . 

(c) Vehicles emitting visible black smoke will be designated for the full SAE J1667 

test procedure . 

(d) Vehicles emitting no obvious black smoke upon pullover will be permitted to 

attempt to Quick Screen, as described in Saf-C 5804.02 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5804.02 Quick Screen Test. 

(a) In the absence of visible smoke, vehicles selected for pullover shall be permitted to attempt to "quick 

screen" before the undergoing the SAE J1667 test procedure. 

(b) The Quick Screen shall consist of two "snaps' of the accelerator as described in the SAE 11667 test 

procedure. 

Source: #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5804.03 Passing the Quick Screen Test. 

(a) Vehicles that display no visible black smoke shall be deemed to have passed the Quick Screen. 

(b) Said vehicles shall provide the administering officer with the data and information listed in Saf-C 

5804.09(c). 

(c) Said vehicles shall receive a pass indication on the Diesel Opacity Results and Information form . 

(d) Vehicles that pass the Quick Screen shall not have to undergo the SAE J1667 test procedure . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5804.04 Quick Screen Test. 

(a) Vehicles that display visible black smoke shall be deemed to have failed the Quick Screen. 

(b) Said vehicles shall be directed to undergo the full SAE J1667 test procedure. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5804.05 Opacity Test. 

(a) The general diesel smoke emissions test procedure shall be the SAE J1667 test procedure, also 

known as the "snap acceleration diesel smoke opacity test." 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 43 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(b) The following summary table of the SAE J1667 test procedure is provided solely as a reference. For 

the purposes of this rule, the test procedure shall be the SAE J1667 test procedure noted in 3(a) . The 

summary of this procedure is as follows : 

Table 1, Summary of Test Procedure 

(1) Chock wheels. 

(2) Measure exhaust stack diameter and enter in test equipment, if 

necessary . 

(3) Insert exhaust probe in stack. 

(4) Disengage brakes . 

(5) Place transmission in neutral . 

(6) Driver "snaps" the accelerator and holds at governed speed for several 

seconds, then returns to idle speed . Snap acceleration procedure is repeated 

a minimum of five times. 

(7) Average three last readings to determine pass or fail . 

(8) Driver is given Pass/Fail result on test form. 

Source . #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5804.06 Mod ification of Procedures. 

(a) The Department may modify or depart from portions of these procedures so long as: 

. (1) The modifications do not represent an unreasonable departure from the SAE 

11667 test procedure, or 

(2) The modifications are the result of recommendations by the test equipment 

manufacturer, or 

(3) The modifications are the result of recommended changes in SAE J1667 

procedures . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5804.07 Certification of Troopers. State troopers administering the opacity test shall have received 

training from the equipment vendor and shall be certified by the vendor as being trained in the 

performance of the test. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5804.08 Opacity Standards . A vehicle will pass the opacity test if its smoke measurement is at or 

below the following levels for the model years indicated : 

Table 2. Opacity Standards 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 44 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

Opacity Level Model Year of Truck 

e l 

40% ~ 1991 and newer , 

~ 55% ~~ 1974 to 1990 

, 70% 1973 and older 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5804.09 Opacity Test Forms. 

(a) Drivers of vehicles that undergo the opacity test shall be given a copy of their test results . 

(b) The form given to the operator shall contain at a minimum the following information : 

(1) Date of inspection; 

(2) Time (start and finish) ; 

(3) License plate number; 

(4) Test standards ; 

(5) Test results in percentage; 

(6) Pass/fail indication; 

(7) Information on fine payment and administrative hearings ; 

(8) Information on repairs ; 

(c) The form to be filled in and kept by the Department shall include the following information : 

(1) Date of inspection; 

(2) Inspector's name or identification number; 

(3) Start time of inspection; 

(4) Ending time of inspection; 

(5) Vehicle's State of registration ; 

(6) Vehicle make; 

(7) Vehicle year of manufacture ; 

(8) Vehicle identification number (VIN); 

(9) Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR); 

(10) Engine make; 

(11) Mileage; 

(12) Stack diameter; 

(13) Emissions test result in percentage (opacity) ; 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 45 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

(14) PASS or FAIL indication; 

(15) Quick Screen result . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

PART Saf-C 5805 ADMINISTRATIVE FINES 

Saf-C 5805.01 Fines. 

(a) The Department may impose administrative fines upon the owner of any vehicle that fails the 

roadside opacity test . 

(1) The fine for the first violation shall be $100. 

(2) The fine for a second violation within one year of the first violation, not to be 

imposed earlier than 60 days from the date of the first violation, shall be $300. 

(3) The fine for a third or subsequent violation within one year of the first 

violation shall be not more than $500. 

(b) All fines assessed pursuant to this rule shall be payable to the Department and shall be deposited in 

the highway fund . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5805 .02 Payment of Fine. 

(a) The owner of any vehicle cited for a violation of diesel opacity standards under the provisions of this 

rule may, within 30 days of the violation pay the designated fine by mail, in person, or by phone . 

(b) Payment of the fine shall be deemed a waiver of the right to request a hearing. 

(c) If a fine is paid by mail, payment shall be in the form of a personal check, cashier's check, money 

order, or by providing a credit card number, expiration date, and name of the card holder . All payments 

of fines by mail shall be addressed to : 

"Department of Safety 

Administrative Fine Payment 

10 Hazen Drive 

Concord, NH 03305" 

(d) If a fine is paid in person, it shall be made at the department at 10 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03305, 

room 208 . Payment may be made by cash, check, cashier's check, or money order. 

(e) if a fine is paid by telephone with a credit card, payment shall be made by calling the number 

indicated on the emissions fine form, and providing the name on the credit card, the credit card 

number, expiration date and the date and number of the emissions fine . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5805 .03 Request for Hearing. If a person wishes to contest the administration fine he or she may 

request an administrative hearing by sending their request for a hearing to Bureau of Hearings, 10 

Hazen Drive, Concord, NH, 03301 . The request for a hearing must be received within 30 days of the date 

the operator failed the opacity test. 

Source . #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 46 
New Hampshire Motor Vehicle I/M SIP Revision 

New Hampshire Departments of Safety and Environmental Services May 12, 2011 

Saf-C 5805.04 Conduct of Hearing . Hearings conducted in accordance with the request shall be heard by 

a hearings examiner of the Department of Safety. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5805 .05 Scope of Hearing. The scope of the hearing shall be limited to: 

(a) A determination as to whether the vehicle passed or failed the opacity test. 

(b) A determination as to the correctness of the performance of the test procedure. 

(c) Other mitigating factors that may be relevant to the finding that there was a violation . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5805.06 Failure to Comply with Order. The Department may require an administrative hearing 

under RSA 263 :56-a for any owner who accrues a total of three or more violations within a period of one 

year. 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Saf-C 5805.07 Review by Commissioner . The commissioner shall have the authority to waive or reduce 

any fine assessed pursuant to this section . 

Source. #6887, EXEMPT, eff 1-1-99 

Attachment V: Applicable New Hampshire Administrative Rules 47