CONCORD, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) New Hampshire officials on Friday issued new guidance clarifying the status of the state’s vehicle inspection program following a federal court order that halted the planned repeal of annual inspections.

The Department of Justice and Department of Safety confirmed that inspections will continue for now under a preliminary injunction issued earlier this week by U.S. District Judge Landya McCafferty. State officials said they intend to challenge the ruling in court and are preparing an appeal. They also plan to seek a pause of the order while the appeal is considered.

In the meantime, the Department of Safety announced it will provide temporary flexibility for motorists who reasonably believed the inspection requirement would end on Jan. 31. Vehicles with inspection stickers expiring before March 2026 will have until April 10 to complete an inspection without penalty.

Officials also said a proposal to extend the contract needed to operate the inspection program is expected to be brought before the Executive Council in the near future.

The inspection program was set to expire at the end of January under legislation passed last year. However, before that repeal took effect, the federal court ordered the state to maintain the program, citing concerns related to compliance with the Clean Air Act. As a result, inspections will continue beyond the original sunset date.

State leaders emphasized that while they disagree with the court’s decision, inspections remain legally required unless future court action or legislative changes alter the program’s status. Officials acknowledged that the shifting timeline has caused confusion and frustration among drivers and said additional updates will be shared as the situation evolves.

The state said any new guidance will be posted on the Division of Motor Vehicles website, and officials indicated they will continue looking for ways to provide flexibility where possible while the legal process unfolds.