With Thanksgiving just around the corner and the excitement of Christmas and New Year’s approaching, it’s easy to overlook an important new law taking effect in Texas on January 1, 2025.
Texans are thrilled about a significant change in the new year. The era of Vehicle Safety Inspection for non-commercial vehicles is finally coming to an end.
Starting New Year’s Day, non-commercial vehicles will no longer need a vehicle safety inspection prior to registration. All non-commercial vehicles in the state will still be subject to a $7.50 inspection program replacement fee. The inspection program replacement fee will be paid at the time you register your vehicle with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.
New vehicles bought in Texas, whether they were previously registered in Texas or another state, now have to pay a fee of $16.75 for a two-year initial inspection program replacement.
It is important to clarify that the new program will not result in an increase in the cost of your vehicle registration. Instead, this fee is intended to replace the revenue that is being lost for state programs and operations. The funds generated from this fee will be allocated towards the construction and expansion of state highways, as well as other projects that have traditionally been supported by statewide vehicle safety inspections.
Regular vehicle maintenance is essential to ensure the safety of yourself, your loved ones, and other drivers on the road. It serves as a crucial reminder that your car needs consistent servicing to remain in top condition.