Texas Vehicle Registration and Inspection Requirements Under COVID-19

Vehicle Registration Information

All Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) offices are closed to the public for in-person transactions as of the close of business on March 18, 2020. Services and support will continue to be provided by mail, email and phone.

On March 16, 2020, Governor Abbot granted a temporary extension to obtain initial registration, renewal of registration, vehicle titling and renewal of a permanent disable parking placard. Governor Abbot also granted a temporary extension for an individual with an expired 30-day temporary permit to obtain another permit or Texas registration.

The temporary waiver applies to vehicle owners in all Texas counties. This temporary waiver is in effect until 60 days after TxDMV notifies the public that normal vehicle registration, vehicle titling and related services have resumed. Those unable or unwilling to have their vehicles inspected at an inspection station may choose to wait until this period of time has ended.

Those who are able to renew their vehicle registrations at this time are free to do so online or through the mail using their mailed vehicle registration renewal notice.

Additional information as well as an FAQ is available on the TxDMV website.

Vehicle Inspection Information

The Texas Department of Public Safety (TxDPS) has not mandated that inspection stations remain open during the COVID-19 emergency. However, if a station chooses to be open, it must perform a full and proper safety and/or emissions inspection (depending on vehicle year and specifications). The TxDPS has not released a comprehensive list of what inspection stations are open or closed. It is up to the public to search for an operating inspection station should an individual choose to have their vehicle inspected.

To find an inspection station nearby, use this TxDPS inspection station locator tool. Also, it is a good idea to call the station ahead of time to be sure that they are open and accepting vehicles for inspection.

Inspections are not mandatory during this period of time until 60 days after the TxDMV notifies the public that normal vehicle registrations have resumed.