
What Is a Texas State Vehicle Inspection?
A Texas state vehicle inspection is a required check-up to make sure your car is safe and meets the state’s emissions standards. Think of it like a yearly doctor visit for your car. The state of Texas wants to make sure all vehicles on the road are safe to drive and not cause too much pollution.
Why Do You Need a Vehicle Inspection?
There are two main reasons for Texas vehicle inspections:
- Safety – The inspection checks important parts of your car, like brakes, tires, lights, and windshield wipers, to make sure they work properly. This helps prevent accidents.
- Emissions – Some counties in Texas require an emissions test to make sure your car isn’t releasing too many harmful gases into the air. This helps keep the air clean and reduces pollution.
If you don’t get your car inspected, you won’t be able to renew your registration, and you could face fines or other penalties.
How Often Do You Need an Inspection?
In Texas, most vehicles need to be inspected once a year. When your registration renewal time comes around, your car must pass the inspection first. The state uses a “Two Steps, One Sticker” system, which means your inspection and registration are linked together.
If you just bought a new car, you might not need an inspection right away, but you will once the car is over two years old.
What Gets Checked During the Inspection?
A Texas vehicle inspection covers several important parts of your car, including:
Safety Inspection Checklist
- Brakes – The inspector will check if your brakes and parking brake work correctly.
- Lights – Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and even the little light over your license plate must be working.
- Horn – Your car’s horn must work so you can warn others if needed.
- Windshield Wipers – These must be in good condition to clear rain from your windshield.
- Steering – The steering wheel and related parts must be in good shape.
- Tires – Tires must have enough tread to grip the road properly.
- Seat Belts – All seat belts must work properly.
Emissions Test (Only in Certain Counties)
If you live in one of the counties that require emissions testing, your car will also be checked for:
- The amount of pollution it produces.
- If all emissions-related parts are working correctly (like the catalytic converter).
- If the check engine light is on, which can cause a failed test.
Where Can You Get a Vehicle Inspection?
You can get your car inspected at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) certified inspection station. This includes many auto repair shops, quick lube locations, and even some dealerships.
If you’re in Fort Worth, C&D Automotive Service Inc. is a trusted inspection station with over 40 years of experience.
How Much Does an Inspection Cost?
The cost of an inspection depends on the type of vehicle you have and whether it needs an emissions test.
These fees are paid directly at the inspection station. Once your car passes, you’ll receive a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR), which proves your car is good to go!

What Happens If Your Car Fails the Inspection?
If your car fails the inspection, don’t panic! Here’s what happens next:
- The inspector will tell you what needs to be fixed.
- You have 15 days to get the problem repaired and return for a re-inspection.
- If you get it fixed quickly and return to the same station, you might not have to pay the full inspection fee again.
At C&D Automotive Service Inc., we can help with any repairs needed to pass your inspection. We’ll diagnose the issue, fix it, and make sure your car is ready to hit the road.
Tips to Pass Your Inspection the First Time
Want to avoid the hassle of failing your inspection? Here are some tips:
- Check your lights – Have a friend help you test your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals before your inspection.
- Listen for strange noises – If your brakes squeak or feel weak, get them checked before your test.
- Look at your tires – If they look bald or have very little tread, you may need new ones.
- Make sure your wipers work – Worn-out wiper blades are an easy fix but can cause you to fail.
- Get a tune-up – If your check engine light is on, get your car checked before your inspection.
What’s Next? Renewing Your Registration
After passing your inspection, you’re ready to renew your registration. The Texas DMV will automatically verify that your car has passed the inspection, so you can complete your renewal online, by mail, or in person.
