The state of New Hampshire requires that all registered vehicles be inspected for safety within 10 days of registration, as well as once every year, and any time the title changes hands. Additionally, antique motor vehicles are required to be safety inspected every April. Only certified inspectors, working at state licensed inspection stations, may inspect vehicles for safety. Certifications are awarded by the state, and can offer those seeking an automotive technician job an excellent way to build their resume.
New Hampshire vehicle inspector qualifications
In order to become a vehicle inspector in the state of New Hampshire, a mechanic must attend one session at the Department of Motor Vehicle’s monthly inspection school.
This is held at both 2:00 PM and 6:30 PM on the first Tuesday of every month in Concord, and in other locations around the state at the discretion of the Department of Motor Vehicles. Mechanics must register for these classes with the Dealer and Inspection Desk at (603) 227-4120.
After attending this monthly class at least once, a State Trooper will schedule a trial inspection test for any mechanic who wishes to receive their inspection license. This test will include a physical demonstration of the mechanic’s ability to inspect a motor vehicle according to the criteria taught in the monthly session. If a mechanic has been previously licensed, but has not conducted any inspections in more than one year, they must attend at least one session of the monthly class, and retake this trial inspection.
The attending State Trooper will give the mechanic a pass or fail grade, and will then issue an inspectors license to any mechanic who successfully proves their knowledge of all inspection processes. The monthly classes are open to the public, and there are no previous experience or employment requirements to attend, be tested, or receive a license.
Licensed vehicle inspectors may inspect vehicles at any state licensed inspection station, which may include garages, transportation companies, or dealerships.
New Hampshire vehicle inspection process
During an inspection, an automotive service technician will inspect the following vehicle components or systems:
- Registration, VIN, and plates
- Steering system
- Suspension
- Braking system
- Speedometer and odometer
- Lighting components
- Glass and mirrors
- Wipers
- Exhaust and emissions systems
- Any applicable on-board diagnostics systems
- Body and frame components
- Fuel system
- Tires and wheels
Additionally, any vehicle that was manufactured after 1996 must be given an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) emissions test at the same time that it receives a safety inspection.
If you’re already a certified mechanic and you’re interested in working with YourMechanic, submit an online application for an opportunity to become a mobile mechanic.
