State Inspection Texas
What is Tested During a Vehicle Inspection in Texas?
In Texas, all vehicles must pass a state vehicle inspection before they can be registered.
The vehicle inspection process in Texas is a comprehensive evaluation designed to assess various safety features and emission standards of a car. In line with the Texas vehicle inspection laws, the following key areas are tested during an inspection:
- Brakes: This assesses both your vehicle’s parking and service brakes for optimum performance.
- Lighting Equipment: All vehicles are checked for functioning headlamps, stop lamps, tail lamps, license plate lamps, and rear red reflectors.
- Steering Mechanism: Examiners will review your car’s steering capabilities to ensure safe operation.
- Windows and Windshield: Your car’s windows and windshield are inspected for cracks or other impediments to visibility.
- Tires: Inspectors will evaluate the condition and tread depth of your vehicle’s tires.
- Horn: Your car’s horn must be in good working order.
- Mirror: At least one rearview mirror is required.
- Seat Belts: All seats must have functioning seat belts.
- Exhaust Emissions System: Excepting new vehicles, all cars must undergo an emission test to ensure they meet the state’s environmental standards.
Cost of State Inspection Texas
Inspection Costs
| Inspection Type |
Amount You Pay At Station |
|---|---|
| One-Year Safety | $7.00 |
| Two-Year Safety (new vehicles) | $7.00 |
| Commercial | $40.00 |
| Trailer / Motorcycle | $7.00 |
| Moped | $0.25 |
| Safety Emissions (El Paso, Travis & Williamson Counties) | $18.50 |
| Safety Emissions (DFW/Houston) | $25.50 |
| Emissions-only vehicles (El Paso, Travis & Williamson counties) | $11.50 |
| Emissions-only vehicles (DFW/Houston) | $18.50 |
**Amounts shown are the maximum charge for each inspection type**
Texas Department of Public Safety