Do I Need an Inspection To Renew My Tags in Texas?
Yes, an inspection is required to renew your vehicle tags in Texas, but requirements vary by vehicle type and county. As of January 1, 2025, non-commercial vehicles no longer require safety inspections, though vehicles registered in designated emissions counties must still pass annual emissions testing. All commercial vehicles in all counties must obtain passing vehicle safety inspections for registration renewal.
Texas requires emissions testing in 17 counties within major metropolitan areas:
- Houston Area: Brazoria, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, and Montgomery counties
- Dallas-Fort Worth Area: Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Johnson, Kaufman, Parker, Rockwall, and - Tarrant counties
- Austin Area: Travis and Williamson counties
- El Paso Area: El Paso County
- San Antonio Area: Bexar County (beginning November 1, 2026)
Registration stickers are issued after renewal and must be attached to the inside of the vehicle's windshield in the lower left corner. The registration insignia must be placed so as not to obstruct the driver's vision.
Exemptions and Special Circumstances
Several vehicle categories receive exemptions from inspection requirements under Texas regulations:
- Vehicles registered as antiques
- New vehicles of the current or preceding model year that have not been previously registered
- Commercial vehicles must undergo annual safety inspections regardless of the county
Contact Information for Tag Services
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
4000 Jackson Avenue, Austin, TX 78731
Phone: (888) 368-4689
Official Website: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
