Motor vehicle inspection and maintenance changes take effect Aug. 14
Effective Monday, Aug.14, Delaware motorists can expect inspection and maintenance changes that will impact the registration of their vehicles, especially in Sussex County.
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control approved changes Jan. 11 that revised Delaware’s Motor Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance regulations in an attempt to reduce emissions and improve air quality.
The amendments to Regulation 1126 and Regulation 1131 include:
• On-Board Diagnostics II emissions testing for vehicles model year 1996 to 2007 with a manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating up to, 8,500 lbs. in all three counties
• OBD-II testing for vehicles model year 2008 and newer with a MGVWR up to 14,000 lbs. in all three counties
• Vehicles model year 1995 and older will require a curb idle and gas cap test in all three counties
• Stricter penalties apply for removing or modifying the emission control system in a vehicle
Currently, there are more than 1 million vehicles registered in Delaware, with 323,576 vehicles registered in Sussex County. Residents are urged to give themselves extra time for registration renewal, particularly if they believe their vehicle will need repair under the new regulations. Motorists can renew their registration up to 90 days prior to its expiration.
For more information about the changes, go to dmv.de.gov and search inspections.
