12. a. Prior to any operation of a limousine on the highways of this State for the purpose of picking up passengers, the driver of the limousine shall conduct a general examination of the condition of the vehicle to ascertain its fitness to operate, which shall include, at a minimum, an examination of the tires, windshield wipers, horn, condition of the front and rear windshield and side windows, front and rear lights, fluid levels and brakes, as well as the condition of the two-way communications system. The completion of a check list by the driver containing, at a minimum, the items enumerated in this subsection and the date and time of the examination, and supplied by the owner of the limousine service, shall constitute proof of compliance with this subsection. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed as requiring more than the general examination to be conducted prior to the commencement of operation in any one day.

b. In a calendar year in which a limousine is not required to undergo an inspection as required pursuant to R.S.39:8-1, the owner of the limousine service shall cause to be conducted, by a person qualified to do so, an examination of the mechanical and operating condition of the limousine, including at a minimum, the condition of the brakes, the exhaust system, condition of the tires, functioning of front and rear lights, and operation of fan belts and other belts in the engine of the vehicle. The person conducting the examination shall issue a report thereof to the owner who shall retain the report of the examination until the time of the next inspection required pursuant to R.S.39:8-1. The report shall be subject to inspection by the Division of Motor Vehicles.

L.1999,c.356,s.12.