AUSTIN, Texas — The need for Texas drivers to get their annual state inspection will end in about two months.
Texans will no longer be required to get their vehicles inspected to receive their registration tags starting Jan. 1, 2025. The change is part of a new law Gov. Greg Abbott signed last year.
However, some confusion about the new law remains, since some drivers will still need an emissions test.
What counties still require an emissions test?
Non-commercial vehicles won't need a full vehicle inspection, but some counties will require them to pass an emissions test before getting their registration.
In 2025, counties in and around major Texas cities including Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, El Paso and Houston will be part of the mandatory emissions tests. The San Antonio area will be added later.
The current comprehensive list of counties requiring emission testing includes Brazoria, Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, El Paso, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Johnson, Kaufman, Montgomery, Parker, Rockwall, Tarrant, Travis, and Williamson. Bexar County will be added to the list Nov. 1, 2026.
How long will an emissions test take?
Texas Department of Public Safety Sergeant Dionne Cockrell said drivers shouldn't expect a long wait at the auto shop.
"It'll be a little shorter since they don't do the inspections on your vehicle," Cockrell said.
Who is exempt from Texas vehicle inspections?
According to Cockrell, only non-commercial vehicles will be exempt from the vehicle inspections. You'll still need to register your vehicle, which will cost an additional $7.50.
Does the new law make Texas roads safer?
Some drivers are concerned about the possibilities, but Cockrell said the goal is to make drivers more aware of their vehicles.
"A lot of times, they don't know that they have a taillight out, a brake light out, or their headlights are not even working," Cockrell said. "They either get stopped or they go to an emissions test. So we like to tell people now it's your responsibility to walk around your vehicle. Be familiar with your vehicle."
What's the benefit of not requiring an inspection?
Cockrell emphasized the changes will make drivers sure their vehicles are operable.
"We give safety talks about when you're going on a long trip, what you need to do, and what you need to prepare for," Cockrell said. "This will make people more aware and more active in knowing what's wrong with their vehicle or keeping it safe."
How does all of this change the renewal process?
In short, the new law doesn't change much. Cockrell said vehicles in counties that require an emissions test will go about things the same way and will still register their vehicles with the Department of Motor Vehicles.
You'll also still be able to complete your vehicle registration online.