AUSTIN — Starting January 1, 2025, most Texas drivers will no longer need to get their vehicles inspected annually for safety. This change comes from a law signed by Governor Greg Abbott in June 2023. However, commercial vehicles will still need to go through inspections.
Instead of safety inspections, drivers will pay a $7.50 fee when registering their vehicles each year. This fee is the same amount that the previous inspections used to cost. For new vehicles not yet registered, a $16.75 fee will apply to cover two years of registration.
While the safety inspections are ending, 17 Texas counties will still require emissions testing. Cars in those areas will need to pass an on-board diagnostic (OBDII) test to meet environmental standards.
Now, keeping your car safe to drive will be the owner’s responsibility, saving time but not money.