DMV/VERIFI Top of The Week, #109 - Catalytic Converter Etching Kits Reminder

DMV/VERIFI Tip of the Week, #109

Date: 8/25

Catalytic Converter Etching Kits Reminder

As a reminder, Chapter 574 of the Laws of 2022, effective April 15, 2023, requires every new and qualified motor vehicle dealer to:

• Keep catalytic converter etching kits in stock;
• Offer catalytic converter etching kit(s) to any person purchasing a new motor vehicle;
• Charge no more than the dealer cost for such etching kit(s).

Catalytic converter etching is a service that must be offered to the purchaser of a new motor vehicle.  If the purchaser chooses to have the converter(s) etched, the number of converters and the appropriate time to etch them needs to be relayed to the vehicle purchaser. 

The suggested labor time of 3 tenths of an hour is for the converter(s) located directly below the vehicle and most likely to be stolen.  Additional labor cost to etch converter(s) located in areas difficult to access should be consistent with DMV regulation and justified based on the converter(s) being etched.

If the dealer offers the etching kit and the consumer chooses not to have some or all the converters etched, the facility is still in compliance with the law.

For additional information, including FAQ’s, please see Tip of the Week #106 which was issued in April 2023.

Please share this information with all appropriate staff.  Thank you.