An internal combustion engine is configured in such a manner that an exhaust gas purification catalyst (13) and a hydrocarbon supply valve (15) are provided in an exhaust gas passage. An exhaust gas purification device selectively uses: a first NOx purification method in which hydrocarbon is sprayed from the hydrocarbon supply valve at predetermined intervals, purifying NOx contained in exhaust gas; and a second NOx purification method in which the air-fuel ratio of exhaust gas which flows into the exhaust gas purification catalyst is made rich at intervals longer than the predetermined intervals, causing the exhaust gas purification catalyst to release occluded NOx and cleaning the NOx. It is determined whether or not the exhaust gas purification catalyst is clogged with the deposition of particulates in the exhaust gas. When it is determined that the exhaust gas purification catalyst is clogged, the second NOx purification method is used.