Texas Car Inspection Laws
Requirements, costs, what gets checked, and what it means when buying or selling a vehicle in Texas.
Texas requires an annual vehicle inspection that includes safety and emissions (in certain counties).
Inspection at a Glance
What Gets Checked
- ✓Brakes
- ✓Lights and signals
- ✓Horn
- ✓Steering
- ✓Tires
- ✓Wipers
- ✓Mirrors
- ✓Seat belts
- ✓Window tint
- ✓OBD-II (emissions counties)
Texas combined inspection and registration stickers in 2015. Your registration renewal receipt serves as proof of current inspection. When selling, a current inspection is required to transfer registration.
Inspection and Vehicle Sales in Texas
Whether the vehicle passed or failed, disclose the current inspection status to buyers. Include it in your bill of sale for legal protection.
A signed bill of sale noting the vehicle's inspection status — and that the buyer accepts it — protects you from post-sale disputes.
Even where inspections are not legally required, buyers should always request a pre-purchase inspection by an independent mechanic before finalizing any used vehicle sale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Texas require a car inspection to sell a vehicle?
Texas requires an annual vehicle inspection that includes safety and emissions (in certain counties).
How often is vehicle inspection required in Texas?
All registered vehicles must pass an annual inspection. The inspection sticker and registration renewal are now combined.
How much does a car inspection cost in Texas?
Safety inspection: $7 for most vehicles. Emissions inspection (OBD counties): $25.50.
Does Texas require emissions testing?
OBD-II emissions testing required in Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, El Paso, Austin, and San Antonio metro areas.
What happens if a car fails inspection in Texas?
If a vehicle fails inspection in Texas, you typically have a set period to make repairs and re-test. Driving with a failed or expired inspection sticker may result in fines. Contact Texas Department of Public Safety for specific reinspection rules.
Can I sell a car that failed inspection in Texas?
In most states including Texas, you can sell a vehicle that has failed inspection — but you must disclose the failure to the buyer. Many buyers will negotiate a price reduction to cover repairs. Using a bill of sale that notes the condition protects both parties.