Listen up, drivers: Your windshields are about to become a lot less sticky and allow for a lot more visibility. The Texas inspection sticker, a Texas Department of Public Safety (TxDPS) requirement for decades, will disappear from vehicles starting this year. Dillon’s Automotive’s experience with car inspections Katy, Texas services knows how important TxDPS stickers are.
Effective March 1, 2015, Texas vehicle inspections will be combined with the annual vehicle registration renewal process. Safety inspections are still required, but instead of needing both a registration and inspection sticker, drivers will receive one combined sticker. The change, which is a part of the state’s new “Two Steps, One Sticker” program, will revise the Texas inspection sticker to serve as proof of both Texas vehicle registration and state inspection.
So how does this legislation change affect you and your vehicle?
How does it work?
Starting March 1, drivers must have their vehicle inspected at least 90 days before renewing their vehicle registration. Drivers whose 2015 registration sticker expires before their 2015 inspection sticker have the luxury of waiting until 2016 to get their vehicle re-inspected. However, if your vehicle’s 2015 inspection sticker expires before its registration sticker, you must adhere to the 90-day requirement starting this year.
How do I receive my new sticker?
If all this sounds confusing, here’s a simple explanation: After a vehicle is passed by a certified inspection station, the station will upload the results into a database accessed by the state. Inspectors will also be required to give drivers a copy of their inspection report in case the state cannot verify the Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) during the renewal process.
Upon verifying the vehicle was inspected at least 90 days before applying for a new registration sticker, the state will issue drivers their new two-in-one registration sticker. Yes, it’s that easy!
How much will this change cost you?
Vehicle registration costs will remain the same. The costs of registering Texas vehicles are as follows:
- Cars and lighter pickup trucks: $50.75
- Vehicles weighing between 6,001 to 10,000 pounds: $54
- Motorcycles and mopeds: $30
The cost of a vehicle inspection, however, varies by vehicle type, counties and the extensiveness of the inspection. One-year safety tests start at $14.50, and some counties – including Dallas, Brazoria, Travis, Harris and El Paso – require additional emissions tests that cost between $26.75 and $39.75. To gauge how much you’re likely expected to spend during your vehicle inspection, please visit the TxDPS website.
Questions to Ask during a Vehicle Inspection
It’s important to be aware of all the workings of your vehicle, especially when you’re preparing to have it inspected. Here are some questions to ask your inspection station before or during your inspection.
Will my car pass the inspection?
A vehicle inspection is an extensive, thorough test, so it’s smart to get attuned as to whether or not your car will likely pass. If a station fails your vehicle, they’ll provide you with the reasons why and an explanation of what needs to be done to fix the issue. Listen to the mechanic, seek out the necessary resources and make sure you fix the issue before the 90-day deadline. In other words, don’t wait until the last minute to get your car inspected!
What do I do if my vehicle fails inspection?
Here’s the good news: a re-inspection is free. If your vehicle needs to be re-tested, have the inspection station tell you what parts need to be repaired or replaced and take it back to the same inspection station within 15 days to receive a free re-test. If you don’t take the vehicle back to the original inspection station within 15 days, your vehicle is no longer eligible for a free re-test. As long as you fix all the problems and issues found during your original inspection, you should pass the second time around.
What items are tested during the inspection?
Your mechanic will test a laundry list of items during the inspection. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Windshield wipers
- Beam indicators
- Brakes
- Mirrors
- Seat belts
- Window tinting
- Stop lamps
- Horns
(You can find the full list on the TxDPS website.)
If there is a certain item or part you’re unsure about, ask the inspection station what you’ll need to do before you take your vehicle to be tested. It’s better to be prepared ahead of time for the inspection so you’re confident your vehicle will pass.
What inspection tests will my vehicle receive?
Vehicle inspections vary by county. Some, like Dallas and Harris, require an additional emissions test, but others do not. There is also the Accelerated Simulation Mode (ASM) test and an On-Board Diagnostic (OBDII) test. If all this lingo sounds confusing, don’t fret. Contact your inspection station and ask them what tests your vehicle will be required to receive according to your county of residence.
Registering for the new sticker can be done by mail, online or in person. To find out whether your vehicle needs to be inspected before your next renewal, please visit the Two Steps, One Sticker website and use the calculating tool.
Katy Auto Inspections
Dillon’s Automotive is the #1 Katy auto repair who can perform the inspections needed to help you get your vehicle up to the standards set by the State of Texas. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about the process as well. Schedule an appointment with us today.
