Do you have a DMV Question?

Emissions regulations and the process for obtaining extensions can vary significantly by state. Since your request does not specify your location, I will provide general information and examples from a few states to give you an idea of what to expect. You will need to check the specific rules for your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency.

General Information on Emissions Extensions
Most states that require emissions testing offer some type of extension or waiver for vehicles that fail. The options available usually depend on the reason for the failure and the owner’s circumstances.

1. Repair Waivers:
This is the most common type of waiver. If your vehicle fails the emissions test, you may be eligible for a repair waiver after you’ve spent a certain amount of money on emissions-related repairs. You’ll typically need to provide all original receipts and repair orders from a certified mechanic to prove you made a good-faith effort to fix the issue. A repair waiver usually exempts the vehicle from the current emissions cycle, giving you time to get the car repaired without facing penalties.

2. Extensions for Repair:
In some states, you can get a temporary registration or an extension after a failed test to give you more time to get the vehicle repaired and re-tested. This is often a 30-day extension, and you’ll likely need to show the failed emissions report to the DMV or local tag office.

3. Other Types of Extensions/Waivers:

Out-of-Area Extension: If you are temporarily located outside the state or the emissions testing area due to school, military, or business, you may be able to get an extension.

Senior Citizen/Disabled Waiver: Some states offer waivers for senior citizens or individuals with disabilities who meet certain criteria, such as driving a limited number of miles per year.

What to Do Regarding Your Situation
Given that your 2009 Nissan 370Z keeps failing the test due to a check engine light, you are in a situation where a repair waiver or extension is a strong possibility. Here’s a general course of action you should take:

Contact Your State’s Vehicle Emissions Program:

Search online for your state’s DMV website and look for “vehicle emissions,” “smog check,” or “VEIP” (Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program).

Look for information on “waivers,” “extensions,” or “exemptions.”

Call their customer service line to explain your situation and ask what documentation you need to apply for an extension or waiver.

Gather Your Documentation:

Failed Emissions Reports: Keep every failed emissions test report.

Repair Receipts: Save all invoices and receipts for the repairs your mechanic has performed to fix the check engine light. This is crucial for a repair waiver.

Vehicle Information: Have your vehicle’s title number and license plate number ready.

Address the Co-Owner Issue:

The fact that your son is a co-owner and was driving the car is not a factor that would prevent you from getting an extension. As a registered owner, you are legally responsible for ensuring the vehicle is in compliance. You will likely need both your signature and your son’s signature on any extension or waiver application.

Work with Your Mechanic:

A persistent check engine light can be difficult to diagnose. Ask your mechanic for a detailed report of the codes and what they have attempted to fix. The “P” codes (e.g., P0420) are standard and can give you a better idea of the specific issue. A failing oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, or evaporative emissions system are all common culprits.

By following these steps, you can find out the exact requirements for your state and work toward getting a proper extension or waiver while you continue to resolve the mechanical issues with your car.