Texas Auto Inspection Requirements

By law, vehicles must be properly maintained in Texas. Regular auto inspections ensure that a driver is keeping his vehicle's maintenance current.

Insurance Requirement

Texans are required to show proof of liability insurance in order to obtain their vehicle inspection.

Emissions Testing

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), vehicles registered in certain counties are required to pass emissions testing. Diesel-powered vehicles and motorcycles are exempt, but still must have annual safety inspections.

Safety Inspection

The Texas DPS requires that safety inspection tests the function of items such as brakes, seat belts, wheels, steering, horn, lighting and windshield wipers. Other tests may be necessary depending on a vehicle's age.

Failure to Pass

You have 15 days to repair the failed items on your vehicle. If you make these repairs within this time, you can return to the same testing station for a free retest.

Frequency of Testing

Texans must have their automobiles inspected annually. There is a five-day grace period at the expiration of your inspection to obtain the following year's inspection sticker.

References

• Texas Department of Public Safety: Inspections

Resources

• Texas Commission on Environmental Quality