Texas Ends Vehicle Safety Inspections: What Does This Mean for You?
Starting next year, Texas is phasing out vehicle safety inspections. This has sparked a lot of questions from drivers, so let’s break down the changes.
Emissions Testing Still Required
Even though safety inspections are going away, there’s still a visit to the auto shop in your future for many Texans! If you live in a county that requires it, you’ll still need to get an emissions test. Remember, if you are in a County that has emissions requirements, you’ll still need to get the emissions tests done at the shop.
Which Counties Require Emissions Tests?
Here’s a rundown of the counties that currently require emissions testing:
- Near Houston: Brazoria, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, and Montgomery counties.
- Dallas-Fort Worth Area: Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Johnson, Kaufman, Parker, Rockwall, and Tarrant counties.
- Austin Area: Travis and Williamson counties.
- Other: El Paso County. Bexar County will be added in 2026.
Registration Fees and the “Inspection Program Replacement Fee”
You’ll still be paying a fee. The $7.50 safety inspection fee is being renamed the “Inspection Program Replacement Fee.” This fee will be collected when you renew your vehicle registration.
What About Vehicles That Only Needed Safety Inspections?
If your vehicle didn’t need an emissions test, you won’t need any inspection at all. You can just renew your registration.
Other Things to Keep in Mind
- Emissions testing is generally required for vehicles that are between two and 24 years old.
- The new law doesn’t change the cost of emissions tests or vehicle registration.
- You’ll still pay local and state registration fees when you renew.
For more details, be sure to check the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website.
