Skip to content

New Hampshire Auto Inspections Suspended Indefinitely

New Hampshire Auto Inspections Suspended Indefinitely

February 17, 2026

Newest state guidance puts the inspection program back on ice

Days before New Hampshire’s auto inspection requirements were set to be repealed at the end of January, a federal judge ordered the state to continue the program.

Now, the New Hampshire Attorney General has advised the vehicle inspection program is suspended indefinity.

No stickers may be issued, and no drivers are required to obtain an annual inspection. Drivers are still required to ensure their vehicle is safe to operate

The state continues to appeal the court’s decision and to seek final approval to terminate the inspection program.

For more information: Vehicle Inspection Program Public Guidance | New Hampshire Department of Justice

What happened in January? The federal court order came in response to a legal challenge by Gordon-Darby, the state’s longtime program operator, arguing the state could not end the program without first receiving federal approval.

The state initially said the program would continue until the legal challenge was resolved and that vehicle owners had until April 10 to get up to date on their inspection.

The New Hampshire Executive Council declined to extend Gordon-Darby’s contract, which terminated on January 31, to accommodate this plan.

You can read more about the initial fallout here: Federal Judge Blocks Repeal of NH Auto Inspections – NFIB.

Get to know NFIB

NFIB is a member-driven organization advocating on behalf of small and independent businesses nationwide.

Receive our newsletter and email notification
Knowledge is power. Let us help you stay informed with breaking legislative news, regulatory updates, business tips, and more.

Related Articles

The United States Supreme Court
April 2, 2026
NFIB Challenges Courts in Small Business Cases
The NFIB Small Business Legal Center is involved in several important small business cases, including debit card processing fees, bans on gas-powered equipment…
Read More
April 1, 2026
NFIB Urges Court to Uphold Free Speech for Small Business Owners
NFIB Urges Court to Uphold Free Speech for Small Business Owners
Read More
March 31, 2026
Michigan Legislative Update – Spring 2026 Edition
Learn more about the legislation NFIB is tracking.
Read More
Harrisburg - State Capitol Building
March 31, 2026
Pennsylvania Legislative Update: House Passes Paid Leave & Minimum Wage Legislation
Tell the Pennsylvania Senate to stop these bad policies!
Read More

© 2001 - 2026 National Federation of Independent Business. All Rights Reserved. Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy | Accessibility