What Does a Texas State Car Inspection Involve?
A Texas state car inspection involves checking more than 20 areas of the vehicle for safety and functionality. As of 2015, areas that are inspected in passenger cars include the vehicle’s horn, brakes, wheel assembly, exhaust system and window tint. The inspector also checks the car’s seat belts, mirrors, tires, beam indicator and other parts for compatibility.
As of 2015, an annual inspection is required for all registered motor vehicles in the state of Texas. An emissions test is also required for vehicles that meet certain criteria. More than 15 counties in Texas require emissions testing as part of the annual inspection. However, diesel-powered vehicles and motorcycles are exempt from the emissions test. Additional inspection criteria vary in Texas for other vehicle types, such as buses, motorcycles, trucks and trailers.
Motorists can visit the Texas Department of Public Safety website at TXDPS.state.tx.us to see current inspection requirements based on their county of residence and vehicle type. The website also includes a inspection station locator tool that allows residents to search for a registered inspection provider by ZIP code, city or county.
Motorists who relocate to Texas from other states or countries must get a vehicle inspection, register their vehicle and title their vehicle within 30 days of moving to the state.
