Saf-C 3200

CHAPTER Saf-C 3200 OFFICIAL MOTOR VEHICLE INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS

Statutory Authority: RSA 21-P:14, V(a)

REVISION NOTE #1 (Replacement of Saf-M 700 by Saf-C 3200):

Document #5250, effective 10-21-91, adopted Saf-C 3200, making extensive changes to the wording, numbering and format of rules in the former Chapter Saf-M 700 governing motor vehicle inspections. The filings prior to Document #5250 for former Chapter Saf-M 700 included the following documents:

#1723, eff 3-1-81 #2993, eff 3-22-85

#2067, eff 6-29-82 #4206, eff 1-16-87

#2253, eff 12-31-82 #4356, eff 1-20-88

#2254, eff 12-31-82 #4376, eff 2-29-88

#2602, eff 1-24-84 #4813, eff 5-03-90

#2946, eff 1-3-85 #4872, eff 7-24-90

All of Saf-M 700, except for the amendments in Documents #2993, 4206, 4356, 4376, and 4872, had expired on January 3, 1991. Document #5250 was intended to replace all prior motor inspection rules, but did not actually repeal the remaining existing rules in Saf-M 700. Document #5260, effective 10-25-91, made an amendment to Saf-M 712.03(a) relative to emergency lights and was numbered and worded to correspond with that paragraph. Emergency lights were otherwise governed by Saf-C 3217.02.

Document #6281, effective 7-9-96, repealed the remaining effective rules in Saf-M 700 governing emergency lights, and Saf-M 700 was now completely replaced by Saf-C 3200.

REVISION NOTE #2 (Amendments and Readoption with Amendments of Saf-C 3200):

Document #8915, effective 6-22-07, readopted with amendments most rules in Chapter Saf-C 3200, making changes to the wording, numbering, and format of those rules. The filings affecting Saf-C 3200 after Document #5250 and prior to Document #8915 include the following documents:

#5361, eff 3-19-92 #6266, eff 6-11-96

#5585, eff 2-17-93, INTERIM #6603, eff 10-18-97, INTERIM

#5602, eff 3-25-93 #6664, eff 12-30-97

#5876, eff 8-2-94 #7731, eff 7-26-02

#6151, eff 12-22-95, INTERIM, EXPIRED 4-30-96 #8530, eff 12-24-05, INTERIM, EXPIRED 6-22-06

All of Saf-C 3200, except for the amendments in Documents #7731, had expired on June 22, 2006. Document #8915 renumbered, but did not readopt at that time, the following rules contained in Document #7731 and which therefore retained their last effective date of 7-26-02:

Saf-C 3201.051, 3201.052, and 3201.053, renumbered as Saf-C 3202.05, 3202.06, and 3202.07

Saf-C 3201.081 and 3201.082, renumbered as Saf-C 3202.12 and 3202.13

Saf-C 3202.02, renumbered as Saf-C 3203.01

Saf-C 3205.04(a)(8), renumbered as Saf-C 3206.04(a)(8)

Saf-C 3223.01 through 3223.06, renumbered as Saf-C 3222.01 through 3222.06

PART Saf-C 3201 APPLICABILITY

Saf-C 3201.01 Applicability. Unless otherwise stated in this chapter, these rules shall apply to passenger cars, trucks, combination vehicles, trailers and semi-trailers, motorcycles, farm and agricultural vehicles, antique vehicles and motorcycles, recreation vehicles, street rods and homemade vehicles.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3201.02. Exemptions.

(a) All vehicles owned by the federal government shall be exempt from these rules.

(b) All new vehicles or chassis shall be exempt from these rules, provided that the new vehicle or chassis is not offered for sale to persons other than the distributor or dealer, as follows:

(1) While in transit from a factory to a distributor or dealer;

(2) While in transit from a distributor to a dealer;

(3) While in transit from a dealer’s warehouse or storage facility to his/her place of business; or

(4) Delivered with a certificate of origin, until sold at retail, pursuant to RSA 266:1, VIII.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

PART Saf-C 3202 DEFINITIONS

Saf-C 3202.01 “Commissioner” means “commissioner” as defined in RSA 259:13.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3202.02 “Department” means “department” as defined in RSA 259:19.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3202.03 “Director” means “director” as defined in RSA 259:20.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3202.04 “Homemade vehicle” means a vehicle made from various parts of other vehicles so that the serial number of the body frame does not reflect the vehicle’s identity. The term includes “composite vehicle”, “reconstructed vehicle” and “kit car”.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07; ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08

Saf-C 3202.05 “Light-duty truck” means any motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 8,500 pounds or less, a vehicle curb weight of 6,000 pounds or less and a basic vehicle frontal area of 45 square feet or less, which is:

(a) Designed primarily for transporting property or derivation of such a vehicle;

(b) Designed primarily for transporting persons and capable of seating more than 12 persons; or

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 3201.051); ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08

Saf-C 3202.06 “Light-duty vehicle” means any passenger vehicle or derivation of such a vehicle capable of seating 12 persons or less.

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 3201.052); ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08

Saf-C 3202.07 “Malfunction indicator light (MIL)” means the instrument panel light used by the on-board diagnostics system to notify the operator of an emissions related fault.

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 3201.053); ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08

Saf-C 3202.08 “Motorcycle-only inspection station” means an inspection station authorized by the department to conduct only motorcycle safety inspections pursuant to RSA 266:1, V-a and not required to conduct on-board diagnostics-II emission testing pursuant to RSA 266:59-b.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3202.09 “Motor vehicle inspection station” means an inspection station authorized by the department to conduct motor vehicle safety inspections pursuant to RSA 266:1.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3202.10 “Multipurpose passenger vehicle” means any motor vehicle, except a trailer, designed to carry 10 persons or less and which has a maximum height of 30 inches from the manufacturer, measured from the bottom of the frame rails of the vehicle.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3202.11 “Newly registered vehicle” means:

(a) Any vehicle registered for the first time after an assignment of ownership;

(b) Any vehicle registered by the same owner whose previous registration for that vehicle has been expired for a period of longer than one year; or

The term does not include registration renewals.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3202.12 “On-board diagnostics (OBD)” means the computer-based system required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in all 1996 and newer light-duty vehicles and trucks, designed to monitor the performance of certain major engine components, including those components responsible for controlling emissions.

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 3201.081); ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08

Saf-C 3202.13 “On-board diagnostic scan tool” means a device used to communicate with the on-board diagnostics system and that complies with the requirements of Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Recommended Practice J1978, April of 2002 and J1979, May of 2007.

Source. #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 3201.082); ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08

Saf-C 3202.14 “Rake” means the angle, measured in degrees, of a motorcycle's steering axis in relation to a line which is perpendicular to the motorcycle’s wheelbase.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3202.15 “Street rod” means “street rod” as defined in RSA 259:106-a.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3202.16 “Trail” means the distance measured in inches between the point at which the steering axis intersects with the ground in front of the motorcycle and the point at which the forward limit of the wheelbase intersects with the surface below the motorcycle.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3202.17 “Tread depth” means the amount of tread design on a tire including original, retread and recapped tread, and regrooved designs.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

PART Saf-C 3203 GENERAL INSPECTION INFORMATION

Saf-C 3203.01 Items to be Inspected.

(a) The items to be inspected on a vehicle, which are described in detail in subsequent parts, shall include the following primary areas:

(1) Registration, plates, registration certificate and vehicle identification number;

(2) Steering, front end and suspension;

(3) Brakes, including parking brake;

(4) Odometer and speedometer;

(5) Electrical system, horn and defroster;

(6) Lights and reflectors, including headlight aim;

(7) Glass, glazing and mirrors;

(8) Wipers;

(9) Exhaust system;

(10) On-board diagnostics system;

(11) Body, chassis and bumper height;

(12) Fuel system; and

(13) Tires and wheels.

Source. (See Revision Note #1 at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #5250, eff 10-21-91; ss by #6603, INTERIM, eff 10-18-97, EXPIRES: 2-15-98; ss by #6664, eff 12-30-97; ss by #7731, eff 7-26-02 (See Revision Note #2 at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 3202.02); ss by #9184, eff
6-20-08

Saf-C 3203.02 Manufacturer's Specifications. All inspection stations shall utilize technical service manuals and other information pertaining to safety standards provided by the manufacturer to determine the manufacturer's specifications for a particular vehicle.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3203.03 Inspection of Vehicles Owned by a Corporation.

(a) The inspection of vehicles owned by a corporation, partnership or other legal entity shall be conducted during a month which is determined by using the first letter or number of the company name.

(b) For the purposes of (a) above, “company name” shall not include articles such as but not limited to, “the”, “a”, “as” and “an”, unless the article constitutes the entire company name.

Table 3200.1.1 Annual Inspection Schedule

Month	First Letter or Number of Name
January	A-B; 1
February	C; 2
March	D-E; 3
April	F-G; 4
May	H-I; 5
June	J-K-L; 6
July	M; 7
August	N; 8
September	O-P-Q; 9
October	R-S; 0
November	T-U
December	V-W-X-Y-Z

(d) The semi-annual inspection, pursuant to RSA 266:1, IX, shall be conducted as set forth in Table 3200.1.2 below:

Table 3200.1.2 Semi-annual Inspection Schedule

Months	First Letter or Number of Corporate Name
January and July	A-B; 1
February and August	C; 2
March and September	D-E
April and October	F-G; 4
May and November	H-I; 5
June and December	J-K-L; 6
July and January	M; 7
August and February	N; 8
September and March	O-P-Q; 9
October and April	R-S; 0
November and May	T-U
December and June	V-W-X-Y-Z

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3203.04 Early Inspection.

(a) Pursuant to RSA 266:1, II-a, a mechanic shall perform an early inspection of a vehicle as follows:

(1) The month in which the anniversary of the owner's birth occurs is one of the next 4 months;

(2) The owner provides verification of his/her absence from New Hampshire during the entire anniversary month; and

(3) The owner has already obtained an early registration with an expiration date of his/her birth month in the following year.

(b) In the event the motor vehicle passes all the inspection requirements, the mechanic shall issue an inspection sticker with an expiration date of the birth month in the following year of the first person named on the registration application.

(d) A fleet inspection station that inspects 100 or more vehicles, registered or leased by the company, may inspect and affix inspection stickers to the vehicles from the first day of the period beginning one month prior to the expiration date of the current inspection stickers through the last day of the month of expiration.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

PART Saf-C 3204 APPLICATION FOR OFFICIAL INSPECTION STATION

Saf-C 3204.01 Applicant.

(a) An applicant for an inspection station shall be the owner of the business, or in the case of a corporation, partnership or other legal entity, a person with specific written authorization to sign the application.

(b) The applicant shall be 18 years of age or older.

(c) An applicant for a fleet inspection station shall own or lease at least 15 legally registered vehicles required to be inspected. Copies of all lease agreements shall be provided to the department, upon request.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3204.02 Application.

(a) An applicant for an inspection station shall submit a completed form DSMV 24 to the department.

(b) A separate form DSMV 24 shall be filed for each place of business.

(1) Corporate name;

(2) Trade name;

(3) Legal and mailing address;

(4) List of all owners, partners and officers, including;

a. Name;

b. Home address;

c. Home telephone number;

d. Date of birth;

e. Driver license number; and

f. Title;

(5) Days and hours of operation;

(6) Length and width of inside garage dimensions;

(7) Whether the applicant has all required tools and equipment;

(8) Whether the applicant complies with applicable building codes, zoning and other land-use regulatory ordinances;

(9) List of all persons authorized to sign the inspection sticker requisition, including;

a. Name;

b. Driver license number;

c. Sticker type; and

d. Signature;

(10) List of all authorized mechanics, including;

a. Name;

b. Home address;

c. Date of birth;

d. Home telephone number;

e. Certificate number listed on the mechanic approval card; and

f. Type of authorization; and

(11) Signature of applicant, pursuant to Saf-C 3204.01(a).

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3204.03 Specification of Type.

(a) The application shall state the following type of inspection station authorization requested:

(1) Fleet;

(2) Government;

(3) Automobile;

(4) Motorcycle; or

(5) Replacement glass.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

PART Saf-C 3205 APPROVAL PROCESS

Saf-C 3205.01 Investigation. A law enforcement officer authorized by the department shall contact the applicant, at his/her place of business, to determine if the applicant meets the requirements of Saf-C 3206.01 through Saf-C 3206.04.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07; ss by #9184, eff 6-20-08

Saf-C 3205.02 Local Notification and Approval.

(a) Upon receipt of a completed form DSMV 24, the department shall notify the town/city clerk in the municipality where the business is located.

(b) The department shall allow 10 working days for the local government to advise whether or not the applicant's business conforms with or is in conflict with existing zoning, building code or other land-use regulatory requirements.

(c) In the event the local government fails to advise the department that the applicant is in compliance with the requirements of (b) above, a certificate of appointment shall not be issued until the department receives notification of compliance from the local government.

(d) In the event the local government advises the department that the applicant is not in compliance with the requirements of (b) above, a certificate of appointment shall not be issued, and the department shall notify the applicant, in writing, of the applicant's responsibility to contact the appropriate local board or officials.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3205.03 Attendance at Inspection School.

(a) A management representative and all mechanics who seek approval to conduct inspections shall attend one session of the department's monthly inspection school which is held at 2:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month in the James Hayes Safety Building, 33 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH, or such other location as the director shall determine. Each mechanic shall also be required to attend refresher sessions of the monthly inspection school, as necessary.

(b) In the event a mechanic is deficient in any area necessary to the completion of an inspection, the director shall require the mechanic to undergo re-training at the monthly inspection school.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3205.04 Mechanic Field Test.

(a) Following attendance at the monthly inspection school, a law enforcement officer authorized by the department shall contact those seeking approval to conduct inspections to schedule an appointment for a trial inspection.

(b) The person shall demonstrate his/her ability to inspect a motor vehicle based upon the inspection criteria contained in these rules.

(1) Attend the inspection school pursuant to Saf-C 3205.03; and

(2) Meet the requirements of (b) above.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07; amd by #9184, eff 6-20-08

Saf-C 3205.05 Certificate of Appointment.

(a) A certificate of appointment shall be issued when the inspection station:

(1) Meets local approval, pursuant to Saf-C 3205.02;

(2) Meets the requirements of Saf-C 3205.01;

(3) Has approved personnel to conduct inspections, pursuant to Saf-C 3205.03 and Saf-C 3205.04; and

(4) Pays the appropriate fee, pursuant to RSA 266:1, V(b).

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3205.06 Issuance of Certificate of Appointment.

(a) Upon approval of an application, a certificate of appointment, containing a designated station number, shall be issued to the inspection station.

(b) No inspections shall be conducted unless a certificate of appointment has been issued and at least one approved mechanic is on duty.

(d) A certificate of appointment issued to a fleet inspection station shall authorize the station to inspect only those vehicles that are registered or leased to the fleet inspection station.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3205.07 Certificate of Appointment Not Transferred.

(a) Each certificate of appointment shall be limited to the person in whose name and place of business it has been issued.

(b) A certificate of appointment shall not be transferred to any other person, business or location and shall not be altered or modified in any manner.

(c) A certificate of appointment shall be presented to any law enforcement officer authorized by the department upon demand or surrendered to the department, if required, after a hearing.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07; amd by #9184, eff 6-20-08

Saf-C 3205.08 Renewal of Certificate of Appointment.

(a) All inspection station certificates of appointment shall expire annually on September 30th.

(b) In order to renew a certificate of appointment, each inspection station shall:

(1) Submit a completed form DSMV 24 to the department, pursuant to Saf-C 3204.02; and

(2) Pay the appropriate fee, pursuant to RSA 266:1, V(b).

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3205.09 Approved Mechanic.

(a) Each inspection station shall have at least one approved mechanic, pursuant to Saf-C 3205.03 and Saf-C 3205.04, to inspect vehicles.

(b) A mechanic shall inspect only those types of vehicles for which he/she has been approved.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3205.10 Mechanic Approval Card.

(a) Each mechanic authorized to conduct inspections pursuant to Saf-C 3205.03 and Saf-C 3205.04 shall be issued a mechanic approval card, form DSMV 168.

(b) No mechanic approval card shall be issued to any person under the age of 18.

(c) A mechanic approval card shall be presented to any law enforcement officer authorized by the department upon demand or surrendered to the department, if required, after a hearing.

(d) A mechanic approval card shall not be transferred to any other person, and shall not be altered or modified in any manner.

(e) A mechanic approval card shall expire in the event the mechanic has not conducted inspections for a period longer than one year.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07; amd by #9184, eff 6-20-08

PART Saf-C 3206 INSPECTION AREA AND EQUIPMENT

Saf-C 3206.01 Inspection Area.

(a) The inspection area shall:

(1) Be within an enclosed building;

(2) Be in good repair;

(3) Be maintained in a safe working condition for both employees and members of the public, in the event the public is allowed to enter the inspection area;

(4) Be clear of all obstructions, including;

a. Shelves;

b. Work benches;

c. Displays;

d. Machinery; and

e. Stairways;

(5) Be wired for electricity in accordance with local code;

(6) Have provisions for heating; and

(7) Have a telephone line or internet connection, if conducting electronic safety inspections.

(b) Any anticipated alterations affecting the condition or size of the inspection area shall be reported to the department, in writing, within 30 days prior to the alterations.

(d) Hoists and lifts shall be permitted in the inspection area if the equipment does not interfere with vehicle inspections.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3206.02 Minimum Space Requirements.

(a) Each inspection station shall:

(1) Have a testing space that has no obstructions and is large enough for a mechanic to walk around a vehicle with its doors open;

(2) Be a minimum of 12 feet by 25 feet in length, if the station inspects motor vehicles;

(3) Be a minimum of 12 feet by 50 feet in length, if the station is equipped with a headlight testing screen or board; and

(4) Be a minimum of 8 feet by 12 feet in length, if the station inspects only motorcycles.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3206.03 Location of Inspections.

(a) All inspections shall be conducted within the approved area.

(b) Temporary methods, such as tents or sheds, utilized in order to obtain additional space, shall not be permitted.

(d) More than one official inspection station located in one enclosed building shall be clearly separated by a permanent physical barrier, such as a fence or partition.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3206.04 Tools and Equipment.

(a) Each inspection station shall have the following tools and equipment:

(1) A brake drum gauge;

(2) A gauging device to measure the thickness of brake pads;

(3) A ball joint gauge;

(4) A lift or jack, capable of hoisting a vehicle to check its:

a. Ball joints;

b. Suspension linkage;

c. Wheel play;

d. Exhaust system;

e. Undercarriage; and

f. Frame of the vehicle;

(5) Tools necessary for the proper assembly and disassembly of any parts, which shall include:

a. Hammers;

b. Portable lights;

c. Socket sets, including metric sizes;

d. Wrenches, including open and box end;

e. Screwdrivers; and

f. Electrical test lights;

(6) Headlight aimer(s) or headlight board capable of determining the proper headlight angle of all vehicles to be inspected;

(7) Tint meter, if the station inspects vehicles with tinted glass;

(8) An on-board diagnostic scan tool authorized by the department capable of communicating with vehicles equipped with the OBD system;

(9) Computer software and hardware authorized by the department, if conducting electronic safety inspections; and

(10) Any other tools necessary to conduct a proper vehicle inspection.

Source. (See Revision Note #1 at chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) #5250, eff 10-21-91; ss by #6603, INTERIM, eff 10-18-97, EXPIRES: 2-15-98; ss by #6664, eff 12-30-97; ss by #7731, amd by #7731, eff 7-26-02; amd by #8530, INTERIM, eff 12-24-05, EXPIRED 6-22-06 (paragraph (a) and subparagraphs (b)(1)-(7)); amd by #8915, eff 6-22-07 (paragraph (a) and subparagraphs (b)(1)-(7)) (See Revision Note #2 at chapter heading for Saf-C 3200) (formerly Saf-C 3205.04); amd by #9184, eff 6-20-08

PART Saf-C 3207 INSPECTION STATIONS

Saf-C 3207.01 Days and Hours of Operation.

(a) For the purposes of this section, “regular business hours” means the days and hours that an inspection station is open to conduct inspections.

(b) Each inspection station shall set forth its regular business hours on form DSMV 24. The inspection station owner shall promptly inform the department, in writing, of any changes in its regular business hours.

(c) An inspection station that will be temporarily closed for inspections for longer than one consecutive week at a time, shall notify the department, in writing, no later than 30 days prior to the date of temporary closure.

(d) An inspection station closed pursuant to (c) above, shall inform the department of the name and telephone number of at least one person who will be available during the period of closure for the department to contact, in the event it is necessary to do so.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3207.02 Change of Ownership.

(a) Each inspection station owner, partner and officer listed on form DSMV 24 shall notify the department, in writing, of any pending change in the ownership of the business, no later than 30 days prior to the effective date.

(b) If all of the owners, partners and officers listed on form DSMV 24 are being changed, all unissued stickers, sticker stubs and books shall be surrendered to the department immediately after the close of business on the last day of ownership, or the next business day.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3207.03 Change of Location.

(a) Each inspection station owner, partner and officer listed on form DSMV 24 shall notify the department, in writing, of any pending change of business location, no later than 30 days prior to the effective date.

(b) A new application for appointment as an inspection station, form DSMV 24, shall be completed pursuant to Saf-C 3204.02, to reflect the proposed location of the business site.

(c) Upon receipt of a completed form DSMV 24, the procedures set forth in Saf-C 3205.01 and Saf-C 3205.02 shall be conducted.

(d) No inspections shall be conducted at the new location until a new certificate of appointment is issued.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3207.04 Closing or Discontinuance of Business.

(a) Inspections shall cease in the event of the following:

(1) The owner vacates, abandons or discontinues the inspection business;

(2) The owner of the inspection station has died;

(3) An inspection station's inspection privileges have been revoked after a hearing;

(4) The fleet of vehicles falls below the number required for appointment as a fleet inspection station; or

(5) All of the owners, partners and officers listed on form DSMV 24 are being changed.

(b) All unissued stickers, sticker stubs and books shall be surrendered to the department immediately after any of the circumstances set forth in (a) above occurs.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3207.05 Notice Required.

(a) The inspection station owner shall notify the department, in writing, of the following:

(1) Lost, damaged or stolen inspection stickers;

(2) An approved mechanic, or person authorized to purchase inspection stickers, is no longer employed by the inspection station;

(3) Changes in the mailing address, but not in physical location of the station, that might affect mailings to the station by the department;

(4) Any change in the company name, corporate structure or ownership of the inspection station;

(5) Any change in physical structure of the station;

(6) Any change in local government approval pursuant to Saf-C 3205.02; or

(7) The fleet of vehicles falls below the number required for appointment as a fleet inspection station.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3207.06 Customer Relations.

(a) Permission shall be obtained from a vehicle owner before repairs are made which are necessary for a vehicle to pass inspection.

(b) The vehicle owner shall be permitted to make his/her own repairs or to select any other inspection station for the necessary repairs.

(c) All parts replaced as a result of an inspection shall be retained until the vehicle is returned to the owner. The vehicle owner may inspect and take ownership of all replaced parts.

(d) The vehicle owner shall be informed, in writing on the repair order, of any parts which, although in passing condition, the mechanic believes might become unsafe before the next inspection period.

(e) The vehicle owner shall be given a breakdown of the cost of any repairs and for all parts necessary to be replaced.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3207.07 Inspection of Out-of-State Vehicles.

(a) Any vehicle owned by a non-resident may, at the owner's request, be inspected by an authorized New Hampshire inspection station.

(b) Any vehicle inspected pursuant to (a) above shall be subject to the same inspection requirements and fees as a New Hampshire vehicle.

(d) The sticker shall expire on the last day of the owner’s next birth month.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

PART Saf-C 3208 SIGNS AND CERTIFICATES

Saf-C 3208.01 Required Certificates and Signs.

(a) Upon appointment, the inspection station owner shall prominently display the following certificates and signs:

(1) A certificate of appointment for each type of inspection approved for the specific location;

(2) An official inspection station sign as set forth in Saf-C 3208.02; and

(3) The inspection fee sign as set forth in Saf-C 3208.03.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3208.02 Description of Sign.

(a) Each official inspection station sign shall:

(1) Be single or double faced;

(2) Bear the image of the Old Man of the Mountain;

(3) Bear the words “Official Inspection Station”;

(4) Be white with green lettering, numbers and border;

(5) Be 22 inches in width by 20 ½ inches in height; and

(6) Contain the assigned inspection station number.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3208.03 Inspection Fee Sign.

(a) Each official inspection station shall conspicuously post a sign showing the inspection fee charged, on the outside of the building.

(b) Each sign shall be no less than 12 inches in height by 18 inches in length, bearing the words:

VEHICLE INSPECTION

FEE $________

(d) Each inspection station shall enter the appropriate fee in the space provided.

(e) More than one sign may be posted.

(f) If the inspection fee includes a separate fee for an OBD-II inspection, the inspection station shall break down the two fees on one sign, pursuant to RSA 266:1, VII. This sign shall not be subject to the requirements set forth in (c) above.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3208.04 Motorcycle Inspection Station Sign.

(a) Each official motorcycle inspection station shall display a sign pursuant to Saf-C 3208.02(a) with the addition of the word "Motorcycle" on the bottom of the sign.

(b) Each official motorcycle inspection station sign shall:

(1) Be white with green lettering; and

(2) Be 4 inches in height by 22 inches in length.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

PART Saf-C 3209 OBTAINING INSPECTION STICKERS

Saf-C 3209.01 Ordering Stickers.

(a) All stickers shall be ordered, in writing, on form DSMV 142, or similar form. Electronic requests shall be accepted as long as the request contains the signature of a person authorized to order stickers.

(b) The written request pursuant to (a) above shall include the following:

(1) Inspection station number;

(2) Type of sticker requested:

a. Motor vehicle stickers and color;

b. Motorcycle stickers and color; or

c. Monthly insert decals;

(3) Name and address of business;

(4) Number of stickers; and

(5) Signature of person authorized to order stickers.

(d) Each fleet inspection station shall order a sufficient number of inspection stickers to allow them to inspect vehicles registered or leased in the name of the company, and vehicles registered to any listed corporate officials.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3209.02 Counter Service.

(a) The department shall provide counter service in Concord or at any substation for inspection sticker purchases and to accept the return of unused stickers and sticker stub books.

(b) Inspection stickers shall be sold to persons authorized by the inspection station on the form set forth in Saf-C 3209.01. The names of additional persons authorized to purchase stickers shall be filed at the department, in writing.

(c) Each person authorized to purchase inspection stickers who appears at the counter shall provide proper identification before obtaining any stickers.

(d) For the purposes of (c) above, “proper identification” shall include:

(1) Driver license;

(2) Military card;

(3) Passport; or

(4) Non-driver identification card, as long it contains a photograph.

(e) Notwithstanding (c) above, inspection stickers shall be sold at the counter to persons not authorized on the prescribed form to purchase stickers, as long as the person produces a written request containing the signature of an authorized person, which is on file with the department.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3209.03 Payment.

(a) All inspection sticker purchases shall be accompanied by the appropriate fee, pursuant to RSA 266:2.

(b) Payment shall be in the form of cash, check, money order or accepted credit cards.

(c) Checks and money orders shall be made payable to the "State of New Hampshire - DMV". Alternative terms, including but not limited to “State of New Hampshire – Safety”, “New Hampshire Department of Safety”, “Treasurer – State of New Hampshire” or “Director of Motor Vehicles” shall not be cause for refusal, provided it does not lend itself to endorsement by any party other than the State of New Hampshire.

(d) Payments received without a written request or requisition for inspection stickers shall be returned unprocessed.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3209.04 Safekeeping and Security.

(a) Each inspection station shall immediately report possible errors, misprints, skips in numbering or missing stickers to the department.

(b) Inspection stations shall not sell, loan or give stickers to any other station.

(c) Each inspection station shall account for every sticker issued. Stickers shall be kept under lock and key and not accessible to the public.

(d) Each station owner shall return completed sticker booklets to the department no later than 30 days following the removal of the last valid sticker from the book.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3209.05 Control.

(a) Inspection stickers shall not be transferred to any other station once issued to a purchasing station.

(b) Inspection stickers shall only be affixed to the vehicle shown on the mechanic's work stub in the inspection booklet.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3209.06 Document Mailings. The department shall assume no responsibility for sticker stubs or books received with postage due. Inspection stations which make the mailings shall be responsible for full payment of postage.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3209.07 Credit for Unused Stickers.

(a) Unused stickers shall be turned in for a credit voucher.

(b) Damaged stickers shall be returned to the department but no credit voucher shall be issued.

(c) No credit shall be allowed during a period in which any returned stickers are currently valid, unless the inspection station is going out of business.

(d) No credit shall be allowed for inspection stickers older than the previous inspection period.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3209.08 Issuance of New Stickers.

(a) New stickers shall be issued in minimum quantities of one full book.

(b) A full book of motor vehicle stickers shall have 25 stickers.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3209.09 Missing Stickers.

(a) In the event an inspection station owner discovers sticker(s) which are missing, he/she shall immediately notify the local police department.

(b) The notification in (a) above shall include:

(1) The number of missing or stolen stickers; and

(2) The number listed on each missing or stolen sticker.

(c) In addition to (a) above, the inspection station owner shall immediately contact the department and follow up in writing.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

PART Saf-C 3210 INSPECTION OF VEHICLE REGISTRATION AND TIME FOR INSPECTION

Saf-C 3210.01 Verification of Information.

(a) Prior to inspecting any vehicle, the mechanic shall examine the registration certificate, plates, vehicle description and vehicle identification number. The mechanic shall advise the owner of any error.

(b) The mechanic shall examine the registration certificate of any homemade vehicle to ensure the certificate shows the vehicle is registered as a composite and that the vehicle has a state issued vehicle identification number beginning with "NH".

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3210.02 Correction of Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

(a) If the VIN on the registration certificate does not match the number on the VIN plate of the vehicle, the mechanic shall:

(1) Make corrections to the VIN on the registration certificate of up to 3 digits or 3 letters, by drawing a slash “ / ” mark through the incorrect digit or letter and placing the correct digit or letter above it;

(2) Complete a correction slip, form DSMV 28C, and place it in a separate envelope marked “VIN corrections” to be forwarded to the department;

(3) Furnish the following on form DSMV 28C:

a. Plate number and type;

b. Expiration date of plate;

c. Owner's name, address and date of birth;

d. Incorrect VIN;

e. Correct VIN;

f. Mechanic’s signature and date signed; and

g. Inspection station name and address.

(b) If more than 3 digits or 3 letters are incorrect on the VIN, corrections shall be made by the department. No inspection sticker shall be issued until the VIN has been corrected.

(c) In the event a vehicle identification number plate is missing or has been tampered with, for example, is missing pop rivets, the mechanic shall reject the vehicle and notify the department.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3210.03 Registration Plates.

(a) The mechanic shall inspect the registration plates and reject the vehicle if it fails to meet any of the following:

(1) The registration plates shall be securely mounted on the exterior of the vehicle in the locations provided by the manufacturer. Vehicles which display special number plates pursuant to RSA 261:91 shall be inspected even though the registration certificate reflects a different number;

(2) When 2 registration plates are issued, one shall be mounted on the front of the vehicle and the second shall be mounted on the rear;

(3) If no location has been provided by the manufacturer, the registration plates shall be securely mounted with a bracket or comparable method in a visible location, and the rear plate shall be illuminated by a white license plate light when the headlights or parking lights are on;

(4) The registration plates shall be mounted right side up;

(5) If the ball of a trailer hitch is mounted in a manner that obscures the numbers or characters on the rear plate, the ball shall be removed or inverted so that the plate is not obscured;

(6) The numbers, characters or identification of the plates as New Hampshire plates shall not be covered up or obscured; and

(7) The color of the registration plates shall be the color issued by the department.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3210.04 International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) Validation Stickers.

(a) A qualified motor vehicle which operates in New Hampshire and at least one other jurisdiction shall be rejected if it does not display valid IFTA stickers on the driver side and passenger side door.

(b) For the purposes of (a) above, “qualified motor vehicle” means a motor vehicle which is used, designed or maintained for transportation of persons or property and which:

(1) Has 2 axles and a gross vehicle weight or registered gross vehicle weight in excess of 26,000 pounds or 11,797 kilograms;

(2) Has 3 or more axles; or

(3) Is used in combination, when the gross vehicle weight or registered gross vehicle weight of such combination is in excess of 26,000 pounds or 11,797 kilograms.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3210.05 Time for Inspection.

(a) Unless specifically stated otherwise in these rules, all passenger vehicles shall be inspected annually during the owner’s month of birth or the month set forth in Saf-C 3203.02, for a corporation.

(b) Recreation vehicles, as defined in RSA 259:84-a, shall be inspected annually, by July 1 of each year.

(c) Notwithstanding (a) and (b) above, newly registered passenger and recreation vehicles shall be inspected within 10 days from the date of registration, pursuant to RSA 266:1, IV.

(d) Notwithstanding (a) and (b) above, all new vehicles purchased at retail from a licensed dealer shall be inspected no later than 30 days after the date of transfer, pursuant to RSA 266:1, IV.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

PART Saf-C 3211 WHEELS AND TIRES

Saf-C 3211.01 Fabric Breaks, Cuts and Blowout Repairs.

(a) A vehicle shall be rejected if a tire has:

(1) A fabric break;

(2) A cut, break or weather crack which is:

a. In excess of one inch in any direction as measured on the outside of the tire; or

b. Deep enough to reach the body cords;

(3) Temporary repairs made with blowout patches or boots;

(4) Any bumps, bulges or knots related to separation or partial failure of the tire structure;

(5) Any portion of the ply or cord structure exposed through the tread; or

(6) A portion of the tread completely worn, which is of sufficient size to affect the traction and stopping ability of the tire.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3211.02 Tread Depth. A vehicle shall be rejected if the tread depth measured in a major tread groove nearest the center of the tire is less than 2/32 inch or 4/32 inch on the front axles of any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight in excess of 10,000 pounds.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3211.03 Regrooved Tires Prohibited. Pursuant to RSA 266:47, a vehicle shall be rejected if it is equipped with one or more regrooved tires.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3211.04 Prohibited Tires, Mis-Matching.

(a) A vehicle shall be rejected if:

(1) Radial and bias-ply tires are on the same axle;

(2) Different tire sizes are on the same axle, except for U.S. and metric sizes of compatible construction, dimensions and load capacity; or

(3) Tires are marked "for farm use only", "off highway use only", or "racing only".

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3211.05 Wheel Condition.

(a) A vehicle shall be rejected if:

(1) Wheel bolts, studs or lugs are loose, missing or damaged; or

(2) Any portion of the wheel is bent, cracked, re-welded, damaged, has elongated bolt holes or any other defect that affects the safe operation of the vehicle.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3211.06 Tire Width.

(a) A vehicle shall be rejected if the width of any tire or wheel assembly extends beyond the original manufacturer's specified fender lines, except in the case of passenger vehicles in which the fender line has been extended by using metal, rigid fiberglass or rigid rubber wheel-well extensions.

(b) Pursuant to RSA 266:57, if not equipped with proper fenders, a vehicle shall be rejected if not equipped with fender guards or flaps which prevent the throw, splash, spray of water, dirt or other matter upward or to the rear.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3211.07 Steering, Alignment and Suspension.

(a) A vehicle shall be rejected if:

(1) A spring, strut or torsion-bar height does not meet the manufacturer’s specifications or there is a broken spring leaf, spring shackle, coil, sway bar or any connecting part;

(2) On the bounce test, the vehicle continues to oscillate for more than 2 cycles, except on vehicles equipped with gas-pressurized struts or shock absorbers, which show more oscillation than conventional, non-pressurized struts or shock absorbers;

(3) The suspension has been altered, and the bottom edge of the horizontal bumper bar:

a. Is less than 16 inches or more than 20 inches above level ground on a passenger vehicle;

b. Is less than 16 inches or more than 30 inches above level ground on a multipurpose passenger vehicle; or

c. Is less than 16 inches or more than 30 inches to the bottom of the front or rear frame rails of a light-duty truck, measured where the bumpers would be attached by the manufacturer;

(4) The vehicle is misaligned from linkage looseness or suspension damage that affects the safe operation of the vehicle;

(5) The wheel camber, caster or toe-in exceed the manufacturer's specifications, that affects the safe operation of the vehicle;

(6) Steering wheel lash or free-play exceeds 3 inches of total movement at steering wheel rim or 2 inches on power-steering equipped vehicles, before the front wheels or the steering wheel moves, except those designed for handicapped operators, is not circular or equivalent in size and material strength as approved by the manufacturer;

(7) The front wheels cannot be turned from full right to full left lock without binding or interference;

(8) Shear capsule, if any, on energy-absorbing steering column is separated from bracket, there is general looseness of the steering wheel and column or the steering wheel and column can be moved as a unit;

(9) Steering box is loose, power steering fluid level is insufficient, or visual observation reveals obvious defects in a belt, hose, connection, component part or mounting which could result in failure;

(10) Steering linkage free-play exceeds the manufacturer’s specifications or is:

a. In excess of 1/4 inch, for wheels 16 inches or less in diameter;

b. In excess of 3/8 inch, for wheels 17 or 18 inches in diameter; and

c. In excess of 1/2 inch, for wheels over 18 inches in diameter;

(11) Any wheel bearing exceeds the manufacturer's tolerance for looseness;

(12) Any ball joint is broken, cracked or separated; or

(13) Any ball joint without a wear indicator has movement in excess of the manufacturer's specifications. Movement shall be measured with a pry bar, using only enough pressure to lift the wheel assembly to prevent unnecessary ball joint replacement.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

PART Saf-C 3212 BRAKES

Saf-C 3212.01 Wheels. When inspecting brakes, the mechanic shall remove at least one front and one rear wheel.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3212.02 Brakes.

(a) A vehicle shall be rejected if:

(1) The brakes do not have adequate stopping power;

(2) Any wheel fails to indicate braking action;

(3) Brake pedal reserve shows that:

a. Less than 1/5 of the total service brake pedal travel remains when the pedal is depressed and held;

b. On front disc-equipped vehicles, the dashboard warning light illuminates; or

c. On drum brake-equipped vehicles, the pedal height cannot be maintained for 10 seconds with moderate foot-force;

(4) Brake warning indicator light:

a. Fails to light up when ignition is turned on;

b. Fails to go out when engine is started;

c. Lights up when brake pedal is depressed;

d. Press-to-test light fails to light up, if the vehicle is so equipped; or

e. If equipped with an anti-lock system, fails to light up when ignition is turned on or fails to go out when engine is started;

(5) Parking brake:

a. Does not hold the vehicle with engine slightly accelerated in low gear;

b. Does not hold the vehicle on a 20% grade; or

c. The pedal or lever reaches its limit before the brakes are set;

(6) On 4 wheel disc brake equipped vehicles:

a. Separate parking brake linings are loose, worn out or soaked with grease, oil or fluids; or

b. Drums are cracked, broken or damaged;

(7) Bonded linings on brake shoes or pads are less than 2/32 inch thick, when measured at the thinnest point;

(8) Wire in wire-backed linings is visible on the friction surface;

(9) Riveted linings on the brake shoes or disc brake pads are worn to within 2/32 inch of any rivet head;

(10) Rivet(s) on the brake lining are loose or missing or the lining is not securely fastened to the shoe or pads;

(11) Brake lining is broken, loose or cracked more than ½ way through the total thickness of the brake lining, except in the case of bonded linings which are cracked but are not loose from the brake shoes;

(12) Lining surface is contaminated with foreign material so that it interferes with operation of the brake;

(13) Any brake drum or disc:

a. Shows evidence of mechanical damage other than wear;

b. Is contaminated with grease or oil on the friction surface;

c. Has cracks on the friction surface extending to the open edge or on the outside of the drum, particularly at the drum mounting area;

d. Has a broken disc;

e. Has cracks on the friction surface extending to the open edge on a disc;

f. Has defective grease retainers;

g. Is worn below the manufacturer’s specifications; or

h. Has thickness less than the minimum which is stamped on the assembly;

(14) The inside diameter of the brake drum exceeds the maximum diameter stamped on the drum or is greater than 0.090 inch, 2.3 mm, over the original drum diameter for unmarked drums;

(15) Fluid is leaking from the master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, or parts are missing, improperly retained or not in good working condition;

(16) Hydraulic fluid in master cylinder reservoir is more than ½ inch below lowest edge of filler opening in either reservoir chamber, or is below minimum level indicated by manufacturer on reservoir. Passenger cars with disc front and drum rear brakes and dual master cylinders shall indicate wear on disc brake pads if fluid level is lower in the large reservoir only;

(17) Hydraulic hoses, tubing or connections are leaking, chaffed, restricted, crimped, cracked, broken, corroded, flattened or insecurely fastened;

(18) Any mechanical linkage parts are missing, broken, badly worn or seized;

(19) There is high friction in the brake pedal and linkage or in the brake components;

(20) Brake operating levers are improperly positioned or misaligned;

(21) On vacuum booster power brakes:

a. Any hose or tube is leaking, collapsed, broken, badly chafed or improperly supported;

b. Any clamp is loose, missing or broken; or

c. The service brake pedal does not move slightly when the engine is started; or

(22) On hydraulic booster power brakes:

a. There is insufficient fluid in the power steering pump or reservoir;

b. There are broken, kinked or restricted fluid lines or hoses;

c. There is any leakage of fluid at the pump; steering gear, brake booster or

any lines or hoses;

d. Belts are missing or are in danger of failure; or

e. While applying pressure to brake pedal, no action is felt in the service brake pedal when the engine is started.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

PART Saf-C 3213 INSTRUMENTATION

Saf-C 3213.01 Odometer.

(a) A vehicle shall be rejected if the odometer:

(1) Has been tampered with or removed; or

(2) Does not work.

(b) Pursuant to RSA 266:60, if the vehicle was manufactured after January 1, 1972, the odometer shall be tamper resistant.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3213.02 Speedometer.

(a) A vehicle shall be rejected if the speedometer:

(1) Has been tampered with or removed; or

(2) Does not work.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3213.03 Reverse Gear and Parking Position.

(a) Passenger vehicles, trucks and buses shall have a functional reverse gear which enables the vehicle to be backed under power.

(b) A vehicle equipped with an automatic transmission shall be rejected if the vehicle moves on a grade while in the "park" position.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

PART Saf-C 3214 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Saf-C 3214.01 Horn.

(a) A vehicle shall be rejected if the horn:

(1) Is not securely fastened;

(2) Cannot be heard by a person 200 feet from the vehicle; or

(3) Does not work.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3214.02 Neutral Starter Safety Switch. A vehicle shall be rejected if the starter operates when the gear selector is in any gear other than park or neutral, if the vehicle is so equipped.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3214.03 Electrical System. A vehicle shall be rejected if any portion of the electrical system shows signs of burning, short-circuiting or bare or uninsulated wires.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

PART Saf-C 3215 LIGHTS AND LIGHTING

Saf-C 3215.01 Turn Signal Lamp Systems.

(a) Pursuant to RSA 266:42, all vehicles manufactured after January 1, 1952 shall have turn signal lamps.

(b) A vehicle shall be rejected if any turn signal lamp or operating unit:

(1) Is not a type compatible with the original equipment;

(2) Is not in the position designated by the manufacturer;

(3) Does not function properly;

(4) Is not properly directed;

(5) Is obscured; or

(6) Has a self-canceling mechanism that does not function properly.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07

Saf-C 3215.02 Emergency Lights.

(a) A vehicle shall be rejected if:

(1) The emergency lights are not the proper color for the type of vehicle, pursuant to (c) below;

(2) The emergency lights are not located in the proper position and location, pursuant to (d) below; or

(3) The owner is not entitled to have the vehicle equipped with emergency lights.

(b) The following vehicles may be equipped with emergency lights of the appropriate color, pursuant to (c) below:

(1) Fire department vehicles;

(2) Police cruisers;

(3) Public or private ambulances;

(4) Vehicles of volunteer firefighters;

(5) Vehicles of volunteer ambulance drivers;

(6) Non-transporting advanced life support paramedic-response units equipped with communications equipment and specialized medical equipment;

(7) Law enforcement vehicles;

(8) Private vehicles of law enforcement officers;

(9) Forestry department vehicles;

(10) Vehicles of the director of the office of emergency management;

(11) Vehicles of the oil spill emergency response unit, the hazardous waste emergency response unit and the air toxics emergency response unit of the department of environmental services;

(12) Vehicles of the emergency response unit of the department of health and human services, specifically approved to have red lights by the commissioner of health and human services;

(13) Vehicles of hospital emergency personnel; and

(14) Vehicles of the office of fire marshall.

(1) Red lights and white or clear colored strobe lights for:

a. Fire departments;

b. Volunteer members of fire departments;

c. Forestry departments;

d. Director of the office of emergency management;

e. Public or private ambulances;

f. Volunteer ambulances and non-transporting advanced life support paramedic response units equipped with communications equipment and specialized medical equipment;

g. Vehicles of the oil spill emergency response unit, the hazardous waste emergency response unit and the air toxics emergency response unit of the department of environmental services;

h. Vehicles of the emergency response unit of the department of health and human services, specifically approved to have red lights by the commissioner of health and human services;

i. Vehicles of hospital emergency personnel; and

j. Vehicles of the office of fire marshall; and

(2) Blue lights and white or clear colored strobe lights for:

a. Law enforcement vehicles;

b. Police cruisers; and

c. Private vehicles of law enforcement officers, in accordance with the requirements of RSA 266:74, II.

(d) The approved position and location for emergency lights shall be as follows:

(1) Emergency lights shall be mounted on the roofs of vehicles unless otherwise permitted below;

(2) Single-face emergency lights shall be mounted on the front, rear or sides of vehicles;

(3) When mounted on the front of vehicles, single face emergency lights shall be no less than 12 inches from the surface of the road;

(4) Dash mounted emergency lights shall be prohibited if they obstruct or in any way impair the driver's vision;

(5) Rear-facing emergency lights may be mounted on the rear window ledges of a vehicle if they do not obstruct the driver's view to the rear; and

(6) Emergency lights combined with sirens to form a single unit may be mounted on the front bumpers or on the vehicle's roof.

(e) A vehicle equipped with emergency lights shall be rejected if:

(1) It is not authorized to be equipped with emergency lights pursuant to (b) above;

(2) The owner is not entitled to have the vehicle equipped with emergency lights; or

(3) The emergency lights do not comply with the color or location requirements set forth in (c) and (d) above.

(f) A mechanic may request written authorization from the appropriate department or entity in order to verify that a person is currently permitted to have his/her vehicle equipped with emergency lights pursuant to this section.

(g) All vehicles equipped with emergency lights pursuant to this section shall comply with the requirements of RSA 265:8 when responding to an emergency.

Source. (See Revision Notes at chapter heading Saf-C 3200) #8915, eff 6-22-07; amd by #9184, eff 6-20-08

Saf-C 3215.03 Warning Lights.

(a) A vehicle shall be rejected if:

(1) The warning lights are not the proper color for the type of vehicle, pursuant to (c) below;

(2) The warning lights are not located in the proper position and location, pursuant to Saf-C 3215.02(d); or

(3) The owner does not have written authorization from the director to have the vehicle equipped with warning lights.

(b) The following vehicles may be equipped with warning lights of the appropriate color, pursuant to (c) below:

(1) Private snow removal vehicles;

(2) Public works departments;

(3) Public utility companies;

(4) Wreckers or other roadside service vehicles;

(5) Postal services vehicles;

(6) Vehicles of the office of emergency management;

(7) Private construction companies;

(8) State, city or town highway departments or security vehicles;

(9) Funeral escort and lead vehicles;