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Texas

Emissions Testing in Texas

Updated December 2025

Emissions testing in Texas is required only in certain urban counties with higher ozone levels. Many gasoline powered vehicles in metropolitan areas such as the Dallas Fort Worth and Houston regions must pass a combined safety and smog check inspection, usually when renewing registration, while most rural counties have no emissions requirement. Rules depend on model year, vehicle weight and fuel type, and some newer or specialty vehicles are exempt. Because Texas periodically updates which counties are included and how tests are run, always check current 2025 information from the Texas Department of Public Safety or your local county office.

132 Cities
602+ Stations

Find Emissions Testing Locations in Texas

You can browse certified emissions testing stations by city in Texas via our directory. Since regulations and station availability vary throughout the state, it's wise to verify each station’s certifications and service offerings before proceeding. Major metropolitan areas generally have more testing options, reflecting higher testing demand. This ensures you can find an appropriate location easily.

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Austin

45 Listings

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El Paso

41 Listings

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Houston

35 Listings

Popular

Dallas

30 Listings

Spring

17 Listings

Conroe

16 Listings

San Antonio

16 Listings

Plano

15 Listings

Grand Prairie

14 Listings

Sugar Land

14 Listings

Katy

12 Listings

Killeen

12 Listings

Arlington

11 Listings

Lewisville

11 Listings

Denton

10 Listings

Fort Worth

10 Listings

Longview

9 Listings

Pasadena

9 Listings

Baytown

8 Listings

Irving

8 Listings

Round Rock

8 Listings

Carrollton

7 Listings

Cedar Park

7 Listings

McKinney

7 Listings

Pflugerville

7 Listings

Richardson

7 Listings

Garland

6 Listings

Mesquite

6 Listings

New Braunfels

6 Listings

Odessa

6 Listings

Abilene

5 Listings

Frisco

5 Listings

Lubbock

5 Listings

Pearland

5 Listings

Temple

5 Listings

Tyler

5 Listings

Amarillo

4 Listings

Laredo

4 Listings

League City

4 Listings

Midland

4 Listings

Seguin

4 Listings

Waco

4 Listings

Allen

3 Listings

Bastrop

3 Listings

College Station

3 Listings

Corpus Christi

3 Listings

Edinburg

3 Listings

Fresno

3 Listings

Grapevine

3 Listings

Kerrville

3 Listings

Marble Falls

3 Listings

Marshall

3 Listings

San Angelo

3 Listings

San Marcos

3 Listings

Texarkana

3 Listings

The Woodlands

3 Listings

Webster

3 Listings

Brownsville

2 Listings

Bryan

2 Listings

Coppell

2 Listings

Deer Park

2 Listings

Del Rio

2 Listings

Del Valle

2 Listings

Euless

2 Listings

Friendswood

2 Listings

Georgetown

2 Listings

Harlingen

2 Listings

Hillsboro

2 Listings

Kyle

2 Listings

Leander

2 Listings

Lufkin

2 Listings

Missouri City

2 Listings

Richmond

2 Listings

Tomball

2 Listings

Wichita Falls

2 Listings

Addison

1 Listings

Argyle

1 Listings

Balch Springs

1 Listings

Beaumont

1 Listings

Big Spring

1 Listings

Borger

1 Listings

Brownwood

1 Listings

Buda

1 Listings

Corsicana

1 Listings

Cypress

1 Listings

Dickinson

1 Listings

Duncanville

1 Listings

Eagle Pass

1 Listings

El Lago

1 Listings

Flower Mound

1 Listings

Forney

1 Listings

Fulshear

1 Listings

Gainesville

1 Listings

Greenville

1 Listings

Harker Heights

1 Listings

Hereford

1 Listings

Highlands

1 Listings

Horizon

1 Listings

Humble

1 Listings

Huntsville

1 Listings

Hutto

1 Listings

Keller

1 Listings

Kemah

1 Listings

La Porte

1 Listings

Liberty Hill

1 Listings

Little Elm

1 Listings

Magnolia

1 Listings

Mansfield

1 Listings

Manvel

1 Listings

McAllen

1 Listings

Meadows Place

1 Listings

Mission

1 Listings

Mt Pleasant

1 Listings

Nacogdoches

1 Listings

New Chapel Hill

1 Listings

Pampa

1 Listings

Pecos

1 Listings

Port Arthur

1 Listings

Port Lavaca

1 Listings

Rockwall

1 Listings

Rowlett

1 Listings

Sherman

1 Listings

South Houston

1 Listings

Southlake

1 Listings

Stafford

1 Listings

Sweetwater

1 Listings

Texas City

1 Listings

The Colony

1 Listings

Universal City

1 Listings

Victoria

1 Listings

Whitehouse

1 Listings

Willis

1 Listings

Testing Requirements

Current Testing Requirements in Texas

Emissions testing requirements in Texas are primarily determined by the type of vehicle, its age, and your location. The state focuses on areas with higher pollution levels to mitigate environmental impact. This section will outline who needs a test, the testing frequency, where testing is required, and what happens during the test.

Who Needs an Emissions Test or Smog Check

In Texas, emissions testing is generally required for gasoline-powered vehicles aged 2 to 24 years old in specified areas. Diesel vehicles weighing less than 14,000 pounds may also need testing. New vehicles and some alternative fuel vehicles might be exempt. Testing may be required for vehicles registered in counties with high pollution levels. Always verify requirements based on your specific vehicle type and region.

How Often Tests Are Required

In Texas, the frequency of emissions testing is usually biennial, aligning with the vehicle's registration renewal. This means most vehicles in the required areas must undergo testing every two years to ensure compliance with air quality standards. It’s vital to complete the test before registration renewal to avoid penalties.

Where Emissions Testing Is Required

Emissions testing is primarily required in urban and suburban counties where pollution levels are higher. This includes major metropolitan areas such as Houston and Dallas. These areas have more stringent regulations due to higher vehicle concentrations contributing to air pollution. Rural regions often have fewer requirements, but it's crucial to confirm specific local mandates.

What Happens During the Test

During an emissions test in Texas, technicians perform a series of checks, including an OBD-II diagnostic scan to detect any malfunctions. They'll also conduct a visual inspection to ensure all emissions control equipment is in place and functional. Tailpipe testing may be performed, depending on the vehicle's model year. Readiness monitors ensure that the vehicle’s emissions systems work correctly. Technicians look for potential failures such as malfunction indicators or disconnected components.

Areas in Texas That Require Emissions Testing

In Texas, emissions testing requirements differ significantly between urban centers and rural areas, largely due to population density and air quality management needs. Cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas have stricter emissions mandates due to higher pollution levels. These areas require regular emissions testing to control and reduce vehicular air pollution. Emissions testing locations in Texas are more prevalent in these urban areas because they experience increased vehicular traffic, contributing to air quality challenges. Conversely, more rural areas may not require emissions tests due to lower vehicle density and better air quality. However, it's always advisable for vehicle owners to confirm local requirements, as regulations can change or be updated to address specific environmental conditions.

How the Emissions Test Works in Texas

The emissions test process typically lasts between 15 to 30 minutes. You'll need to bring your vehicle's registration and a valid ID. The test begins with an OBD-II diagnostic scan and a visual inspection of the emissions equipment. Common failures include a lit check engine light, incomplete readiness monitors, or malfunctioning emissions components. If your vehicle fails the test, you’ll need to make necessary repairs and retest. Stations set their own prices, so costs vary. To improve your chances of passing, ensure your vehicle's maintenance is up to date. If you fail, you need to address any issues before attempting a new test. Preparation and regular vehicle upkeep are key to success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Discover quick and comprehensive answers to common questions about our platform, listings, and services.

Yes, emissions testing in Texas is required in certain areas, particularly those with higher pollution levels like major cities. The tests ensure vehicles meet emissions standards to help control air quality.
Typically, gasoline vehicles aged 2 to 24 years and diesel vehicles under 14,000 pounds in specified regions require an emissions test in Texas. Always verify based on local and vehicle criteria.
In Texas, the frequency of emissions tests is generally every two years. The requirement usually coincides with vehicle registration renewal periods, ensuring consistent emissions compliance.
Emissions testing is primarily required in urban and suburban regions in Texas, such as around Houston and Dallas, due to higher levels of pollution and traffic.
Electric vehicles and some hybrid models are typically exempt from emissions testing in Texas due to their reduced or zero emissions output. However, local exceptions may apply.
In Texas, diesel vehicles weighing less than 14,000 pounds may require emissions testing, especially in regions with stricter air quality regulations.
If a vehicle fails the emissions test in Texas, the owner must address any identified issues before retesting. Repairs and rectification ensure compliance with emissions standards.
The cost of emissions testing in Texas varies by station as prices are not state-regulated. It's advisable to inquire locally to get current rates.
Appointments for emissions testing in Texas depend on the station. Some offer services on a first-come, first-served basis, while others may accept or require appointments.
To find emissions test locations in Texas, consult state-approved directories or local resources. Verify each location's certifications to ensure compliance.

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Related Guides and Resources

For assistance, explore guides covering a range of topics such as understanding Texas's emissions regulations, preparing your vehicle for a test, learning about vehicle exemptions, or handling a failed emissions test. These resources provide valuable insights into maintaining compliance and optimizing your vehicle's emissions performance.

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