MANCHESTER, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Beginning Jan. 31, 2026, New Hampshire drivers will no longer need to bring their vehicles in for annual safety inspections, after a controversial provision was included in the state’s new biennial budget deal.

Governor Kelly Ayotte confirmed she will sign the budget into law, finalizing a major shift in New Hampshire’s longstanding vehicle inspection policy. The repeal, which passed June 26 on the last day of the legislative session, follows weeks of negotiation between Ayotte and Republican leaders in the State House.

Under current law, New Hampshire is one of just 14 states that requires annual safety inspections for all registered vehicles, usually conducted during the owner’s birth month. These inspections typically cost up to $50 and are marked by the familiar sticker on the windshield. But that will change next year.

The elimination of the inspection requirement was a key demand from House Republicans during budget negotiations, with multiple sources reporting it was an “absolute condition” for securing enough votes to pass the spending plan.

The budget also calls for the repeal of emissions testing by the end of September 2026, pending a waiver from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which state officials say is already being expedited.

Supporters Say Repeal Offers Financial Relief

Proponents of the change, including Rep. Michael Granger, who originally sponsored the legislation, argue that annual inspections are outdated, expensive, and unnecessary. Granger and others claim inspections primarily serve car dealerships and garages, not drivers, and have referred to the program as a “scam.”

Supporters also point to research suggesting inspections don’t significantly impact roadway safety. A 2018 U.S. Department of Transportation study found that only about 2%percent of car accidents were directly caused by vehicle defects such as faulty brakes or tires.

Rep. Sam Farrington, R-Rochester, said vehicle inspections lead to surprise repair bills running into the thousands.

Critics Warn of Safety Risks, Business Impact

Opponents, including the New Hampshire State Police and the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association (NHADA), warn the repeal could lead to more dangerous vehicles on the road. NHADA said the decision will lead to a “measured increase” in accidents, especially given New Hampshire’s harsh winter conditions.

The budget change also includes adjustments to the frequency of inspections for school buses, prompting further concern among safety advocates.

What Drivers Need to Know

Until Jan. 31, 2026, all New Hampshire drivers must continue to get their vehicles inspected annually under current law. After that date, the inspections will no longer be required for cars, trucks, or motorcycles.

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services is working on obtaining the EPA waiver that would allow the state to end emissions testing as well, possibly ahead of schedule.