Is It True? No More Inspections on Vehicles in Texas?

Texas Eliminates Vehicle Safety Inspections: What’s Going On?

If you're like me, you grew up in Texas believing that the annual vehicle inspections were for safety reasons in Texas. I mean, who wouldn’t want to make sure our cars are ready for the road and safe for all those long winding Texas highways and byways?

So, imagine my crazy confusion when I learned  (just last month) that as of the first of January, 2025, "non-commercial vehicles in the Lone Star State no longer need a SAFETY inspection." That’s right, no more inspection stickers, no more going to a family friend or relative working at that garage or gas station to help you get your car inspected and put a new light bulb on the rear license plate, or anything else that might be needed. Nope, not anymore, but why?

The Law Behind the Change

The reason for the change is because of House Bill 3297, passed by the Legislature and signed into law by Governor Abbott in 2023. The new bill officially it does away completely with safety inspections for non-commercial vehicles. But the Curious Thing is you don't have to pay for an inspection sticker anymore but there will be an inspection fee of $7.50 for the new "inspection program replacement fee" due at vehicle registration. If you're buying a new car in Texas, an additional $16.75 fee covers the first two years.

But here's how I know this is being done by elected officials because this is not a cost-saving measure. The fees REDIRECT the funds to state programs, including highway construction and maintenance (I pray our roads get better). So, while you might save time skipping the inspection line, your wallet won’t feel much lighter.

Emissions Tests Still Required in Some Areas

An there's another little caveat to this entire equation because vehicle maintenance, known as "emissions testing" isn’t going anywhere for vehicles registered in metropolitan areas like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin. These tests, mandated in counties with poor air quality, ensure we keep our skies clean, clear, and Texas blue. For those of us out in the country aka 'rural areas' emissions tests are not needed.

Commercial Vehicles and Safety Concerns

Commercial vehicles? They're still subject to inspections. But what about the rest of us? While the state says regular maintenance is now up to individual Texans, I can't help but wonder if this could lead to more unsafe cars on the road. Texas DPS even released a PSA video urging drivers to stay on top of maintenance. But let’s be honest: without the annual reminder, will everyone take safety seriously?

Why I’m Scratching My Head

I grew up trusting that inspections were a safeguard for all drivers. From bald tires to failing brakes, inspections often caught problems before they became disasters. Eliminating them feels like we’re taking a gamble with road safety. Sure, it’s one less hassle in our busy lives, but at what cost?

So, I’m left asking: Is this really the right move for Texas? Or are we setting ourselves up for more accidents and costly repairs down the line? One thing’s for sure—I’ll keep my car in tip-top shape, even if the state no longer makes me prove it.