Did You Know?
Even though Texas no longer requires most vehicle inspections, Kwik Kar still provides full safety checks to keep your car reliable and road-ready.
Emissions Testing is still required for many drivers
While Texas has eliminated the annual state safety inspection requirement for most personal vehicles, emissions testing is still required for many drivers.
If your vehicle is registered in an emissions-required county, you must pass an emissions test before completing your registration renewal.
Emissions-Required Counties
Greater Houston area: Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Brazoria, Galveston
DFW Metroplex: Dallas, Tarrant, Denton, Collin, and more
Austin and El Paso areas: Travis, Williamson, and El Paso counties
Bexar County will join the club in 2026.
An emissions test checks your vehicle’s exhaust system to ensure it meets Texas air-quality standards. The test helps reduce harmful pollutants and keeps our communities’ air cleaner.
What’s Included in An Emissions Test?
fuel systems and evaporative control
catalytic converter performance
tailpipe emissions and engine integrity
If any of these components are not functioning properly, it could result in harmful emissions being released into the atmosphere. As such, it is important to make sure your emissions system is in good working order before taking your vehicle in for inspection.
vehicle inspection faqs
Can I get an emissions test on Sunday?
It depends on your location’s hours of operation. Please check with your local Kwik Kar for availability.
How much is an emissions inspection in Texas?
The cost to have your vehicle emissions inspected in Texas depends on your vehicle type and county. Emissions-Only Vehicles range between $11.50 and $18.50. Commercial vehicles cost $40.00.
Do commercial trucks need a Texas state inspection?
Yes. In the state of Texas, all commercial trucks must undergo a regular inspection in order to ensure that they are safe for operation on public roads.
Find a Kwik Kar location proudly serving honest auto care in Austin, Houston and Dallas/Fort Worth areas
Drive With Confidence
We take every step to ensure your vehicle gets the care it deserves. From routine oil changes to complete inspections, Kwik Kar keeps your car road-ready with service you can trust.
- Experienced mechanics & quality parts
- Fast turnaround—no long waits
- 16 convenient Texas locations
- Honest diagnostics and clear recommendations
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KWIK KAR
- Austin
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