Texas vehicles will no longer need safety inspections starting Jan. 1

AUSTIN, Texas - Starting January 1, most Texas drivers will say goodbye to annual safety inspections. The comprehensive safety inspection will be eliminated for all noncommercial vehicles, meaning you won't need it to register or renew your car. 

"Commercial vehicles will still be required to get the inspection," said Daniel Armbruster with AAA Texas. 

The change is thanks to a new law passed in the most recent legislative session. 

"I think the issue is what are the safety benefits, versus the various limitations and disadvantages of having this annual inspection," said Dr. Chandra Bhat, a professor of civil engineering at UT Austin. 

Drivers will, however, have to pay a $7.50 "program replacement fee", 50 cents more than the cost of the current safety inspection. If you have a new vehicle that's not been previously registered, you'll pay an initial fee of $16.75. 

Dr. Bhat says with these inspections going away, "We are responsible to ensure that the vehicle is safe."

AAA Texas recommends getting your vehicle checked a few times a year anyway, and that's all the more important with safety inspections going away. 

"The Texas vehicle inspection currently covers components like brakes, lights, horn, the steering mechanism, windows, tires and seatbelts, among other items. So those are items that you're definitely going to want to make sure that you have a trusted mechanic take a look at," said Armbruster. 

With these changes, Bhat suggests state leaders be vigilant about any impacts on road safety, and says liability could be more of an issue for drivers. 

"If it can be shown that my negligence of a certain repair issue was the reason for the crash—you better be careful," said Bhat. 

While the safety inspection is going away for most, it's important to note that annual emissions tests will still be required in major metropolitan areas. That includes Travis and Williamson Counties, where they cost $18.50. 

"It's all about being a good driver and a good roadway user, and making sure that the vehicle that you're operating is in good condition, not only for you and your safety, but also the safety of everyone around you as well," said Armbruster. 

For more information on the changes, click here.