• New Jersey law requires that most vehicles be emissions tested at certain times to ensure adherence to air quality standards. Specific testing intervals depend on the vehicle class, type and model year. Generally, new vehicles require a test once the vehicle reaches five model years old. However, the procedure for 1979 vehicles is much different from newer models.
  
  

Vehicle Classification

• Historic vehicles that are at least 25 years old are exempt from emissions testing. Your 1979 vehicle must be classified as historic and display the proper historic license plates to avoid testing. Collector vehicles are exempt from inspection provided they are not classified as "historic" or "street rod." A collector vehicle may not travel more than 3,000 miles annually and you must provide proof of the car or truck being insured as a limited use collector vehicle.
  
  

Types of Tests

• Non-exempt vehicles from model year 1979 receive an emissions test by monitoring of the actual exhaust emitted from the tailpipe. This test is different from on-board diagnostic (OBD) tests that utilize the vehicle's computer system. OBD testing checks the vehicles internal emissions monitoring equipment, not the exhaust fumes. Vehicles that are model year 1996 and newer receive the OBD test.
  
  

Test Procedure

• Vehicles made in 1979 require testing every 2 years. A windshield sticker shows if your vehicle past a previous New Jersey emissions test and displays the next testing due date. A state inspection official determines the engine type and the acceptable emissions readings for 1979 vehicles. Your vehicle than receives a tailpipe monitoring test and a gas cap check to ensure fumes from the fuel tank do not escape into the atmosphere. If the test is successful, you receive a new emissions test sticker on the windshield.
  
  

Failing a Test

• If your vehicle fails an emissions test, you receive a report detailing the reason for the failure. State certified Emissions Repair Facilities adjust vehicle emission controls, or you can fix the problem yourself. You have 1 month from the last day of the month displayed on the inspection sticker to make repairs. After the necessary repairs are made, have the vehicle retested at a state licensed facility. Repair time can not be extended, and you can be ticketed for operating a vehicle beyond the 1-month repair window.
  
  

Repair Waiver

• You may receive a waiver if you spend $450 or more to reduce the emission output of your 1979 vehicle. The waiver is granted if the vehicle fails a re-inspection. You must provide the original inspection report, the re-inspection document, and all receipts stating the equipment and labor used to attempt repair. Any manufacturer installed emissions components missing or altered on your vehicle are not covered by this waiver.