DMV jacks are the mechanical lifting devices your state's Department of Motor Vehicles requires you to carry in your vehicle
A DMV jack is a portable hydraulic or mechanical device that lifts your vehicle off the ground so you can change a tire or perform roadside repairs. Most states do not legally require you to carry one, but some do — and even where it is not mandated, having one is practical for any driver who might need to handle a flat tire without waiting for roadside information.
The term "DMV jack" is informal; your state's DMV does not manufacture or sell jacks. Instead, the requirement (where it exists) appears in your state's vehicle code or safety regulations, and the DMV enforces it through vehicle inspections or traffic stops. The actual device you buy comes from an auto parts store, online retailer, or your vehicle's manufacturer.
Whether your state requires a jack, what type, and what capacity it must have all depend on your vehicle's weight class and your state's specific rules. A jack that satisfies one state's rules may not satisfy another's.
Key Takeaways
- Most U.S. states do not legally require you to carry a jack, but a few do — check your state's vehicle code or contact your local DMV to know your requirement.
- If your state does require a jack, it must match your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), which you can find on a label inside your driver's door jamb.
- Hydraulic bottle jacks and scissor jacks are the most common types; scissor jacks are lighter and more compact, while hydraulic jacks lift faster and handle heavier vehicles.
- A jack alone is not enough — you also need jack stands, wheel chocks, and a lug wrench to safely change a tire on the roadside.
Which states require you to carry a jack
Only a handful of states have explicit legal requirements to carry a jack in your vehicle. New York and New Jersey are among the most well-known for this rule. Some other states include the requirement in their commercial vehicle codes or in regulations for specific vehicle classes (such as trucks or buses) rather than all passenger vehicles.
The easiest way to find out whether your state requires a jack is to contact your state's DMV directly — either through their website, by phone, or by visiting a local office. You can also check your state's vehicle code online; search for terms like "jack requirement" or "emergency equipment" in your state's motor vehicle laws. If you are unsure, carrying a jack anyway is a practical choice that protects you in a breakdown.
Even if your state does not require a jack, your vehicle's manufacturer may have included one in the trunk or under the rear seat. Check your owner's manual or look in your vehicle's storage compartments before you buy a new one.
Types of jacks and how to choose the right one
The two most common types of jacks for passenger vehicles are scissor jacks and hydraulic bottle jacks. Scissor jacks use a screw mechanism to lift and lower; they are compact, lightweight, and often come standard with new cars. Hydraulic bottle jacks use fluid pressure to lift and are faster, but they are heavier and take up more space.
The most important factor in choosing a jack is its lifting capacity, measured in tons. Your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) — the maximum weight your vehicle can safely carry when fully loaded — determines the minimum jack capacity you need. You can find your GVWR on a label inside your driver's door jamb or in your owner's manual. As a rule, your jack should have a capacity at least equal to your GVWR, and many drivers choose one with a higher capacity for safety margin.
For a typical passenger car weighing 3,000 to 4,000 pounds, a 2-ton or 2.5-ton jack is usually sufficient. Larger vehicles, SUVs, and trucks may need 3-ton, 4-ton, or higher capacity jacks. If you are unsure, an auto parts store employee can help you match a jack to your vehicle's specifications.
What to do if you are stopped and do not have a jack
If a police officer stops you in a state that requires a jack and you do not have one, you may receive a citation. The penalty varies by state but typically ranges from a warning to a fine of $50 to $200, depending on the jurisdiction and whether it is your first offense.
If you receive a citation, you have options. You can pay the fine, contest the ticket in traffic court, or in some cases request a dismissal if you can show proof that you have since purchased and carry the required jack. Some jurisdictions allow you to dismiss a citation by showing the court that you have corrected the violation.
The best approach is to know your state's requirement before you are stopped. If you live in or frequently travel to a state that requires a jack, buy one that matches your vehicle's GVWR and keep it in your vehicle at all times.
How to use a jack safely on the roadside
A jack alone is not enough to safely change a tire. You also need jack stands (metal supports that hold the vehicle steady once it is lifted), wheel chocks (wedges that prevent the vehicle from rolling), and a lug wrench (to remove and tighten the wheel bolts). Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack; always use jack stands as a backup.
The basic steps are: pull off the road to a flat, stable surface; turn on your hazard lights; loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire before lifting; place wheel chocks behind the wheels that will remain on the ground; position the jack under the vehicle's frame (not the bumper or body panel) at the designated jacking point; lift the vehicle until the tire clears the ground; place jack stands under the frame; then remove the lug nuts and change the tire.
If you are not confident in your ability to change a tire safely, or if you are on a busy highway where stopping is dangerous, call roadside information instead. Many insurance policies and auto club memberships include this service at no extra cost.
Where to buy a jack and what to expect to pay
You can buy a jack at any major auto parts retailer — Autozone, O'Reilly, Advance Auto Parts, and NAPA all carry a range of jacks in different sizes and types. You can also buy online through Amazon, Walmart, or the retailers listed above. Prices vary based on type and capacity.
A basic scissor jack typically costs $20 to $60. A hydraulic bottle jack of comparable capacity costs $30 to $100. Higher-capacity jacks for larger vehicles or commercial use can cost $150 to $500 or more. If your vehicle came with a jack, you do not need to buy one unless you want a backup or a higher-capacity option.
When you buy a jack, check the packaging or product description to confirm it matches your vehicle's GVWR. If you are buying in person, ask a store employee to verify the capacity is appropriate for your vehicle before you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to carry the jack that came with my car?
If your state requires a jack, the one that came with your vehicle usually satisfies that requirement, provided it matches your vehicle's GVWR. However, many factory jacks are lightweight scissor jacks that work but are slow and can be difficult to use. Many drivers carry an additional hydraulic jack for convenience, even if the factory jack is legal.
What is the difference between a jack and a jack stand?
A jack lifts your vehicle; a jack stand holds it in place once it is lifted. You should never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack, because a jack can fail or slip. Always use jack stands as a safety backup. Most roadside tire changes require both tools.
Can I use a floor jack instead of a bottle jack?
A floor jack is larger and heavier than a bottle jack and is designed for use in a garage or workshop, not for carrying in your vehicle. If your state requires a jack, it typically means a portable jack you can carry with you. A floor jack does not meet that requirement, and it is impractical for roadside use.
What if my vehicle is too heavy for a standard jack?
Large trucks, RVs, and commercial vehicles may exceed the capacity of standard passenger-vehicle jacks. Check your vehicle's GVWR and buy a jack rated for that weight or higher. Specialty retailers and truck supply stores carry heavy-duty jacks in 5-ton, 10-ton, and higher capacities. If you cannot find a jack that fits your vehicle, consult your vehicle's manufacturer or a truck service center.
Is carrying a jack required for commercial drivers?
Commercial drivers — those operating trucks, buses, or vehicles for hire — may have different requirements than passenger vehicle drivers. Some states require commercial vehicles to carry jacks, tire repair kits, and other emergency equipment. Check your state's commercial vehicle code or ask your state's DMV about requirements for your specific vehicle class.