Starting in 2025, Texas will make a major change to its state inspection requirements. With the passage of House Bill 3297, most drivers will no longer need annual safety inspections but will still have to pay a $7.50 yearly fee. However, 17 counties will continue to require emissions testing, and commercial vehicles will still undergo regular inspections.
What Are the Current Texas Car Inspection Laws?
Before H.B. 3297 goes into effect on January 1, 2025, Texas law mandates that all registered vehicles have an annual safety inspection to ensure compliance with state standards. This comprehensive inspection assesses various vehicle safety components. Certain counties also require emissions testing to help reduce air pollution and maintain air quality standards. In addition to the cost of the inspection, drivers have to pay a $7.50 annual fee to the State of Texas. The cost of emissions testing varies by county.
Failure to comply with these inspection laws can result in fines and more serious potential legal consequences for repeat offenders. Texas drivers must stay informed about the current regulations and ensure their vehicles are inspected annually to avoid issues.
What Is Tested at a Texas State Vehicle Inspection?
When you take your car in for a Texas state vehicle inspection, a certified inspector will thoroughly examine various safety components. First, they will review the vehicle’s insurance card, confirming the driver’s name, the policy number, the make and model of the vehicle, and the effective and expiration dates. Without proof of insurance, the inspector will not check the vehicle.
Next, the inspector conducts a road test to confirm that the brakes work effectively. This involves bringing a typical passenger car to a smooth stop within 25 feet or a truck or motorcycle to a stop within 30 feet. Other distances apply to larger commercial vehicles. The inspector will reject the vehicle if the brake lights don’t come on or the brakes do not meet the stopping-distance requirements.
After the road test, the inspector will look inside the vehicle and confirm that the following items function safely:
- Windshield wiper controls
- Horn
- Turn signals
- Mirrors
- Seat belts
- Brake pedal reserve
- Parking brake
- Steering
- High beam indicator
Once the inside inspection is complete, the inspector will go outside the vehicle and test the following:
- Tires
- Mud flaps
- Wheels
- Wipers
- Lighting equipment
- Glass coating/tint
- Gas cap
The inspector then goes under the vehicle to check the condition of the service brake, parking brake, and exhaust system. Lastly, they’ll look at the exhaust emissions system, the master cylinder, the power steering system, and the exhaust manifold.
In addition to the safety components, vehicles in certain counties are also subject to emissions tests. This test measures the pollutants emitted from your vehicle’s exhaust system to ensure compliance with air quality regulations. Inspectors use specialized equipment to measure the levels of pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides emitted from the vehicle’s exhaust system.
The time for the inspection process can vary depending on the type of vehicle and the specific tests required, but it typically takes 15 to 30 minutes to complete.
Why Might You Fail a Texas State Vehicle Inspection?
There are several reasons why your vehicle might fail a Texas state inspection. A check engine light or other warning indicators on your vehicle’s dashboard may signal an issue that could lead to a failed inspection. Some common safety-related issues that can also lead to failure include worn or damaged tires, malfunctioning brakes, broken or missing lights, and a faulty horn. If any of these components do not meet the minimum safety standards set by the state, your vehicle will not pass the inspection.
In counties that require emissions testing, your vehicle may fail if it exceeds the allowable levels of pollutants. This can be caused by various factors, such as a malfunctioning catalytic converter or other problems with your vehicle’s exhaust system.
If your vehicle fails the inspection, you must address the identified issues and have your vehicle re-inspected. Failing to do so can result in fines and other penalties, so it’s crucial to promptly fix any problems to guarantee your vehicle is safe and compliant with Texas state laws.
What Are the New Inspection Laws, and When Do They Go into Effect?
The Texas Legislature passed House Bill 3297 in 2023, which introduced significant changes to the state’s vehicle inspection laws. Under this new legislation, most Texas drivers will no longer be required to submit their vehicles to annual safety inspections starting in 2025. Instead, vehicle owners will pay a yearly fee of $7.50, equivalent to the current inspection fee. Drivers with new cars will have an initial fee of $16.75 and will not have to pay a fee for the next year.
The new law aims to streamline the vehicle registration process and reduce the burden on Texas drivers while still maintaining road safety. An analysis of the bill noted that most states have removed their annual inspection requirements and that the benefits of continuing the system in Texas did not outweigh the burden of maintaining it. The changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2025, giving drivers and inspection stations ample time to prepare for the transition.
There are no notifications to remind vehicle owners that their inspection is due, so they are responsible for keeping track of the due date.
Which Counties in Texas Still Require Emissions Testing?
Despite the upcoming changes to the vehicle inspection laws, these 17 counties in Texas will continue to require annual emissions testing:
- Harris
- Dallas
- Tarrant
- Travis
- Brazoria
- Collin
- Denton
- Ellis
- El Paso
- Fort Bend
- Galveston
- Johnson
- Kaufman
- Montgomery
- Parker
- Rockwall
- Williamson
These counties include some of the state’s most populous areas, covering Houston, DFW, and Austin. The decision to continue emissions testing in these counties is based on their population density and air quality concerns. These counties wish to reduce air pollution and protect public health by requiring vehicles to meet certain emissions standards. Areas with higher traffic volumes tend to have more significant air quality issues, which continued emissions monitoring could help keep in check. Residents in these areas should be aware that they will still need their vehicles to undergo annual emissions tests, even after the new inspection laws take effect in 2025.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Emissions Testing?
While some counties will continue to require emissions testing, this rule has some exceptions. Vehicles that are under two years old are exempt from emissions testing. Since newer vehicles have undergone minor wear and tear, the assumption is that their exhaust systems are still in good working order. The vehicles are less likely to exceed the allowable pollutant levels.
Another exception applies to electric and hybrid vehicles. Since these vehicles produce little to no emissions, they are not subject to the same testing requirements as gasoline-powered vehicles.
Some other vehicles may also be exempt from emissions testing based on age, weight, or intended use. For example, antique vehicles or those used for agriculture may not need emissions testing. Vehicle owners must check with their local county offices to determine if their vehicle qualifies for exemptions.
What Are the Penalties for Not Following Inspection Laws?
Failing to comply with Texas vehicle inspection laws can result in various penalties. Under Texas Transport Code Section 548.604, driving without a valid inspection sticker is a misdemeanor. A first offense is punishable with a fine of up to $200. Repeat offenders may be subject to higher fines and potential legal consequences.
To avoid these penalties and protect your safety on the road, it’s crucial to address any issues promptly and inspect your vehicle as required. Staying informed about the current inspection regulations and upcoming changes can help you stay compliant and avoid unnecessary fines or legal troubles.
Contact a Texas Car Accident Lawyer
As we approach the implementation of the new inspection laws in 2025, it’s essential to stay informed about the changes and how they may affect you. Remember, even with the upcoming changes, regular vehicle maintenance and safe driving habits remain critical to ensuring your safety while driving. Depending on where you live, you might still need to get an annual emissions test. Contact our Dallas car accident attorney today.
If you were hurt in a car accident in Texas, seeking legal advice from an experienced Dallas personal injury lawyer is essential. A skilled car accident attorney can help you pursue fair compensation from those at fault for your injuries.
The dedicated team at The Wilhite Law Firm understands the challenges that accident victims face and is committed to fighting for the justice and compensation they deserve. We offer free case reviews and work on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case. Contact us today for your free consultation, and let’s discuss your case in detail.
