New vehicle inspection rules in Texas: What drivers can expect in 2025 [Video]

SAN ANTONIO – Starting in 2025, Texans will no longer need a safety inspection before registering a car for most vehicles, except commercial ones, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

The change takes effect on Jan. 1, 2025, after House Bill 3297 was signed into law last year.

While inspections won’t be required, all non-commercial vehicles are still subject to a $7.50 inspection program replacement fee, which must be paid when registering vehicles with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.

New vehicles — including those from the current and preceding model years — that have not been registered in Texas or another state will need to pay an initial inspection program replacement fee of $16.75 to cover two years, DPS said in a news release.

The registration cost will remain the same although the fee isn’t going away. The state says revenue from the replacement fee will ensure funding …