Texas Vehicle Safety Inspection Changes 2025
As of January 1, 2025, significant changes to Texas’s Vehicle Safety Inspection Program have taken effect, impacting vehicle owners statewide.
Elimination of Safety Inspections for Non-Commercial Vehicles
Non-commercial vehicles in Texas are no longer required to undergo annual safety inspections prior to registration. This change is a result of House Bill 3297, passed by the 88th Legislature and signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott in 2023.
Introduction of the Inspection Program Replacement Fee
Despite the elimination of the safety inspection requirement, all non-commercial vehicles are now subject to a $7.50 inspection program replacement fee. This fee is collected at the time of vehicle registration with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and is designed to replace the revenue previously generated by the safety inspections, supporting state programs and operations such as highway construction and expansion.
For new vehicles—defined as those of the current or preceding model year on the date of purchase—that have not been previously registered in Texas or another state, an initial inspection program replacement fee of $16.75 is required to cover two years.
Emissions Testing Requirements
It’s important to note that while safety inspections have been eliminated for non-commercial vehicles, emissions testing remains mandatory in certain areas. Vehicles registered in designated emissions counties must continue to undergo emissions tests. The cost of these tests varies by vehicle and county.
The counties requiring emissions tests include:
- Brazoria
- Collin
- Dallas
- Denton
- Ellis
- El Paso
- Fort Bend
- Galveston
- Harris
- Johnson
- Kaufman
- Montgomery
- Parker
- Rockwall
- Tarrant
- Travis
- Williamson
Additionally, Bexar County will be added to the list of counties requiring emissions tests in 2026.
Commercial Vehicles
All commercial vehicles across Texas are still required to obtain a passing vehicle safety inspection. Since these vehicles continue to undergo safety inspections, they are exempt from the inspection program replacement fee.
Continued Importance of Vehicle Maintenance
Even though mandatory safety inspections have been eliminated for most vehicles, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) emphasizes the importance of regular vehicle maintenance. Ensuring that components such as headlights, taillights, horns, mirrors, windshield wipers, and tires are in proper working condition is crucial for the safety of all road users. Operating a vehicle without these properly functioning safety features is against the law and poses significant risks.
For more detailed information on these changes, you can visit the official DPS announcement.
Auto Insurance Remains a Legal Requirement in Texas
While safety inspections for non-commercial vehicles have been eliminated, auto insurance remains a legal requirement for all Texas drivers. The state mandates a minimum level of liability coverage to ensure financial responsibility in the event of an accident. Even with the new changes in vehicle inspection laws, maintaining valid auto insurance is crucial—not only to comply with Texas law but also to protect yourself and others on the road. Whether you’re driving a brand-new car or an older model, having the right insurance policy provides peace of mind and financial security. If you’re unsure about your current coverage or need help finding a policy that fits your needs, TGS Insurance Agency is here to assist you every step of the way.