frequently asked questions

No. The inspection station will check the same elements that have previously been inspected. However, you will receive a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) in lieu of an inspection sticker.

Yes, you will owe the inspection station fee regardless of whether the vehicle passes or fails.

Vehicle inspection and registration renewal reminder letters are sent to motorists when a passing inspection record could not be found when the renewal notices were created. This letter is mailed the month before the expiration of vehicle registration, and serves as a reminder to get a passing inspection and renew your registration.

Once you have a passing inspection, you do not need a renewal notice to renew online or at your county tax office. 

No. As long as the passing inspection was obtained no earlier than 90 days before your registration expiration you will be able to renew.

No. A passing inspection is not required before permit issuance as permits are issued in lieu of registration. However, a passing inspection is required to drive the vehicle on Texas roads.

Yes. All commercial vehicles registered in Texas are required to have a Texas safety inspection.

Yes. Texas statute requires all commercial vehicles registered in Texas to maintain an annual safety inspection.

VIN errors are most common at inspection stations that manually record inspection results. While inspection stations should verify that the correct VIN is printed on a VIR, you are also encouraged to verify your VIN, before leaving the inspection station, in order to avoid any delays at the time of registration renewal. You can confirm the VIN printed on your VIR is correct by comparing it with the VIN listed on your Insurance card/Insurance policy which is required for inspection purposes, your Vehicle Registration Renewal Notice or Vehicle Inspection and Registration Renewal Reminder Letter.

Return to your inspection station and request a corrected report.