How Often Do Vehicles in Texas Require a Smog Check?


In Texas, most vehicles are required to undergo a smog check as part of their annual inspection. This is done to ensure that vehicles meet emissions standards and are not contributing to air pollution. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

Gasoline-powered vehicles that are model year 1996 or newer and diesel-powered vehicles that are model year 1997 or newer are required to undergo an annual emissions test. This includes cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans. Vehicles that are registered in certain counties are also required to undergo an emissions test, regardless of model year.

The counties that require emissions testing include:

  • Brazoria
  • Fort Bend
  • Galveston
  • Harris
  • Montgomery
  • Collin
  • Dallas
  • Denton
  • Ellis
  • Johnson
  • Kaufman
  • Parker
  • Rockwall
  • Tarrant
  • Travis
  • Williamson
  • El Paso

If you live in one of these counties and your vehicle is model year 1996 or newer, you will need to have your vehicle tested annually. However, if your vehicle is model year 1995 or older, it is exempt from emissions testing.

It is important to note that even if your vehicle is exempt from emissions testing, you still need to have an annual safety inspection. During the safety inspection, the mechanic will check various components of your vehicle to ensure that it is safe to drive on the road. This includes checking the brakes, tires, lights, and other essential components.

Most Texas vehicles are required to undergo an annual smog check if they are the model year 1996 or newer. If you have any concerns, it is important to check with your local DMV to determine if your vehicle is required to undergo emissions testing. Additionally, even if your vehicle is exempt from emissions testing, you still need to have an annual safety inspection to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive. 

For smog checks and vehicle inspections, turn to the local experts at Kwik Kar Auto Repair in Richardson, TX.

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We do not take appointments for state inspections. State inspections are FIRST COME FIRST SERVE!