by | Published
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding drivers in San Antonio and surrounding areas that new vehicle emissions testing requirements will take effect later this year under House Bill 3297.
Starting November 1, 2026, Bexar County will join the state’s list of emissions counties, requiring vehicles to pass an emissions test before registration. These tests are separate from comprehensive vehicle safety inspections, which were eliminated for non-commercial vehicles on January 1, 2025. Vehicles registered in emissions counties will still need to pass the test, while electric-only vehicles and other exempt vehicles are not required to test. The cost of emissions testing in Bexar County will be $18.50. Drivers with unexpired registrations do not need to test until renewal.
All non-commercial vehicles in Texas remain subject to a $7.50 inspection program replacement fee, paid when registering a vehicle. New vehicles (current or preceding model year) not previously registered in Texas or another state pay $16.75 for a two-year coverage period. This fee replaces revenue from vehicle safety inspections and supports state programs such as highway construction and expansion.
Commercial vehicles must continue to pass a vehicle safety inspection in all counties. Because of this, commercial vehicles are exempt from the inspection program replacement fee.
DPS encourages Bexar County drivers to service their vehicles in advance to avoid delays at registration. Proper maintenance helps ensure the emissions system functions correctly and that all critical safety features—headlights, taillights, horn, mirrors, windshield wipers, and tires—are operational. Driving with malfunctioning equipment is illegal and unsafe.
For more information on emissions requirements and vehicle registration, drivers can visit the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles website.
