Texas DPS Announces Big Changes Ahead for Texas Vehicle Safety Inspection Program
Starting from January 1, 2025, most Texans can bid farewell to the vehicle safety inspection for non-commercial vehicles, thanks to House Bill 3297. The landmark bill was passed by the 88th Legislature and subsequently signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott in 2023, shaking up the state’s Vehicle Safety Inspection Program.
All non-commercial vehicles will be exempted from the safety inspection requirement before registration. However, a replacement fee of $7.50 will be added to your total during registration with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.
New vehicles, more specifically those of the current or preceding model year at the time of purchase and yet to be registered in Texas or any other state, will be charged an initial inspection program replacement fee of $16.75, valid for two years.
One thing to note is that this bill does not blanket all vehicles in Texas. Those whose vehicles are registered in emissions counties will need to continue getting their cars emissions tested. This rule applies predominantly to major metropolitan areas, including but not limited to Brazoria, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Montgomery, and El Paso counties. In 2026, Bexar County will also join the emissions test roster.
As for commercial vehicles, these will still need to undergo a passing vehicle safety inspection. Because of this requirement, they won't be charged the inspection program replacement fee.
It is important to remember that despite these changes, all vehicles must continue to be registered via the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. So, while the inspection process might be changing, the need for registration isn't going anywhere.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
