One is phasing out the state-run system of auto inspections in favor of a private system that would most likely result in much higher costs to motorists.

The state repealed mandatory auto inspection in 1981.

When New Jersey's enhanced auto inspection system made its debut a year ago, it was a bomb.

If an auto inspection expired Aug. 31, the owner had a full year until the next Aug. 31 for reinspection.

He and Ms. Ingram had a brief, enthusiastic discussion about the auto inspection and repair service that sets up outside on Thursdays.

The Ministry of Transportation, perhaps the champion regulator, has more than 2,000 regulations, including such rules as a mandatory $650 auto inspection every two years.

They are studying ways to do that, from returning bus service to the private sector to farming out incarceration - as is done in some other states - and auto inspections.

Mr. Cifelli said that "a significant part" of his business comes from auto inspections.

For a small fee, he'll wait eight hours to renew your auto inspection, then affix it to your windshield while you're busy at the office.

Mr. Ohmae mentions the high cost of housing in Japan, of driver's licenses ($2,000 each) and of auto inspections ($600).