Yes, with very few exceptions, most vehicles registered in Texas must pass an annual safety inspection. New vehicles, certain commercial vehicles, and specific models like electric cars have a two-year initial inspection period. The inspection ensures your car meets minimum safety standards, and you cannot renew your registration without a valid inspection sticker.
The process involves checking key safety components like brakes, tires, lights, steering, and mirrors. Additionally, vehicles registered in 17 designated counties, including major metropolitan areas like Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, and El Paso, must also pass an emissions test. This test measures pollutant levels from your tailpipe or, for newer cars, checks the onboard diagnostics (OBD) system for faults.
The standard cost for a safety inspection is $7.00, while an emissions test in required counties costs $18.50, bringing the total to $25.50. These fees are set by the state. Failing to get your car inspected will prevent you from renewing your vehicle registration, and driving with an expired inspection sticker can result in a fine of up to $250.
| Inspection Type | Required Counties | Standard Fee | Key Checks Involved |
|---|
| Safety Inspection | Statewide | $7.00 | Brakes, tires, lights, steering, mirrors, seat belts |
| Emissions Test | 17 designated counties (e.g., Harris, Dallas, Travis) | $18.50 | Tailpipe emissions or OBD system scan |
| Combined Safety & Emissions | Designated counties | $25.50 | Includes all safety and emissions checks |
| Motorcycle Inspection | Statewide | $7.00 | Basic safety components specific to motorcycles |
| Trailers & Semi-Trailers | Statewide | $7.00 | Lighting, brakes, tires |
The inspection must be completed at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)-licensed inspection station, which includes most mechanic shops and oil change centers. Once you pass, the inspector will provide a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) and affix a new sticker to your windshield. You then use the VIR number to renew your registration online, by phone, or in person.
