Green Driver State Incentives in New Hampshire
New Hampshire's green-minded drivers can take advantage of a few time- and money-saving green driver incentives. These perks include emissions test exemptions for electric cars, fuel-efficient auto insurance discounts, federal tax credits for buying alternative fuel vehicles, and more. Keep reading for specifics.
New Hampshire Vehicles Emissions Tests Exemptions
New Hampshire requires most vehicles to undergo an emissions test as part of an annual safety inspection to maintain valid NH vehicle registration. This includes hybrids and alternative fuel vehicles (AFV). However, electric vehicles are exempt from emissions testing.
Specifically, if your vehicle runs on either gasoline or diesel fuel, and has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 8,500 lbs or fewer, it probably requires an On-Board Diagnostics (OBDII) test. This depends on its model year. For more info, consult the New Hampshire OBD & Safety Testing Program (NHOST) and our page on smog checks and inspections.
To find a nearby testing center, scroll down to our locator widget at the bottom of this page.
Federal Tax Incentives for Buying a Fuel-Efficient Car
To entice American taxpayers to go green, the government offers numerous federal tax credits if you buy any of the following:
- Electric car (EV).
- Hybrid.
- Plug-In hybrid (PEV).
- Diesel.
- Other Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV).
For full details on these tax breaks for eco-friendly vehicle owners, consult fueleconomy.gov's Tax Incentive Information Center. And as always, be sure to talk to your preferred tax preparer or an agent from your local IRS Tax Payer Assistance Center if questions arise regarding tax incentives.
NH Auto Insurance Discounts for Eco-Friendly Drivers
Certain New Hampshire auto insurance providers reward eco-friendly driving with sizable insurance rate discounts. If you drive very little and/or drive a fuel-efficient vehicle, look into green vehicle discounts such as:
- Hybrid auto discounts.
- Alternative fuel vehicle (AFV) discounts.
- Economy car discounts.
- Low-mileage discounts.
- Pay-as-you-drive discounts.
The trick is finding the provider that offers quality coverage, budget-friendly rates, and worthwhile incentives.
Comparing auto insurance rates online is a good idea if your current NH auto insurance carrier doesn't reward eco-friendly driving.
New Hampshire Idle Reduction Technology Weight Limit Increase
If your vehicle uses either auxiliary power or idle reduction technology, New Hampshire increases the weight limit for gross, axle, tandem, or bridge formula by up to 550 lbs. That way, drivers of vehicles equipped to reduce idling don't get penalized for the extra weight this technology adds.
To take advantage of this incentive, you must be able to prove the weight of your auxiliary power unit (APU) in writing and show that the idle reduction technology is fully functional at all times (either by demonstration or certification). Additionally, the APU weight certification must be available to law enforcement officers should they find your vehicle in violation of applicable weight laws.
For full details, refer to New Hampshire Revised Statutes Chapter 266, Section 266:18-c.
Transportation & Climate Initiative of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic States
The Transportation & Climate Initiative (TCI) is a collaboration of Northeast and Mid-Atlantic jurisdictions. New Hampshire is one of the states that participates in the TCI's work to lessen oil dependence, encourage clean energy economy, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions related to transportation. To learn more visit the TCI website.
Keep Up with Current New Hampshire Green Driver Incentives
New Hampshire's eco-friendly incentives and related green-vehicle laws are always evolving—especially as environmental issues grow. Stay on top of the latest by referring back to this page periodically and also consulting your local New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) branch and the Alternative Fuels Data Center.
Find a Nearby New Hampshire Emissions Testing Station
Locate the closest NH smog and emissions testing station with the widget below:
