Puerto Rico Extends Vehicle Inspection Period for New Cars

Puerto Rico’s Governor Pedro Pierluisi has signed a new law extending the period before new vehicles are required to undergo inspections. The law, which amends the ‘Puerto Rico Vehicle and Traffic Law,’ is aimed at recognizing advances in vehicle emission control technology. The new law, authored by Representative Ángel Matos of the Popular Democratic Party (PPD), states that new cars will be exempt from their first inspection for three years from the date of manufacture. The legislation emphasizes that the automotive industry has developed more efficient emission control technologies, allowing newly manufactured vehicles to meet industry regulations for a longer period. The new law stipulates that inspections will be conducted at least once annually and no more than twice every six months. The Secretary of Transportation has the authority to determine which vehicles require inspection, considering the number of years since their manufacture. Vehicles older than three years will be subject to mandatory inspections.