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HB 8391

AN ACT RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- INSPECTION OF MOTOR VEHICLES

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Deb Fellela

Rhode Island moves to a first inspection within 2 years or 24,000 miles, then largely waives inspections until 20 years old, after which inspections occur biennially.

04/29/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · HB 8391

Summary of HB 8391 ( Rhode Island, 2026 )

Purpose and intent

  • Establishes a streamlined vehicle inspection regime administered by the Rhode Island Department of Revenue.
  • The core change is to shift from requiring annual inspections for most vehicles to a schedule where:
    • The first inspection occurs within two years of purchase or before 24,000 miles, whichever comes first.
    • After the first inspection, most vehicles (excluding motorcycles and certain heavy vehicles) would not require subsequent inspections until they reach 20 years of age.
    • After 20 years, inspections would occur biennially (every two years).

Key provisions and changes

  • Section 31-38-4 (as amended):

    • Annual inspections required by the director, but the bill allows inspections not more than twice per year or per schedule set under chapter 47.1.
    • First inspection: required within two years from purchase or before 24,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
    • Post-first inspection: Vehicles with a gross weight of 8,500 pounds or less are exempt from further emission and safety inspections until the vehicle is at least 20 years old.
    • After 20 years old: Biennial inspections for emissions and safety.
    • Inspections cover: mechanism, brakes, and other equipment as designated by the revenue department.
    • Authority to adopt rules/regulations, including: upgraded standards, testing equipment standards, display/production of certificates, and insurance requirements for inspection facilities.
    • Insurance requirement: inspection facilities must carry a minimum of $25,000 liability coverage to cover potential damage to vehicles while in the facility’s control.
    • Authorization for acceptance of out-of-state inspection certificates from states with similar laws, and potential extension of certificate expiration timelines.
    • Suspension authority: the revenue department may suspend vehicle registrations if a vehicle is deemed unsafe or not properly equipped or lacks required inspection certificates after notice.
    • Staggered inspection system: director may provide for staggered schedules.
    • Penalties: violations punishable as fines per § 31-41.1-4.

  • Section 2 (Effective Date)

    • Takes effect January 1, 2027.

Who is affected

  • Vehicle owners and registrants in Rhode Island.
  • Inspection facilities and garages (subject to new insurance and registration requirements).
  • Retail sellers and vehicle dealers (in relation to the schedule and display/production of certificates).
  • Out-of-state inspection certificate recognition (potential impact on cross-border inspections).
  • Law enforcement and DOT-equivalent agencies enforcing vehicle safety standards and compliance.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced: April 1, 2026, by Representative Deborah A. Fellela; referred to House Finance.
  • Committee action: As of the latest update, the committee recommended the measure be held for further study (April 29, 2026).
  • Implementation timeline:
    • Law would take effect on January 1, 2027.
    • First inspections required within 2 years of purchase or before 24,000 miles.
    • Biennial inspections would begin for vehicles aged 20 years and older.

Practical impact and considerations

  • Administrative burden: Potential reduction in annual inspections for most vehicles, shifting to a longer initial interval and biennial cadence later in a vehicle’s life.
  • Public safety: Maintains a mechanism for annual or semi-annual trigger via the director’s schedule and allows suspension for unsafe vehicles; however, it relies on biennial inspections after 20 years for older vehicles.
  • Financial implications: Inspection facilities must carry at least $25,000 liability insurance; penalties for violations remain under existing fine authorities.
  • Compliance and consistency: Provisions to accept out-of-state certificates may ease cross-border vehicle transactions and inspections.

Note: This summary reflects the bill as introduced and amended up to the provided text. Always consult the final enacted language and accompanying fiscal notes for precise legal effect.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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