Texas, like many states, is worried about its air quality. Depending upon their location, drivers will need an emissions inspection when transferring titles and completing the car registration process for a newly purchased vehicle that is between two and 24 years old.

In fact, if you live in a designed emissions county, you will be subjected to a smog check and emissions inspection every year when you go to renew your vehicle registration.

Emissions Testing Locations

If you're transferring a car title in any of the following counties, the TX Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires an inspection:

Dallas, Tarrant, Harris, El Paso, Collin, Denton, Galveston, Brazoria, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Ellis, Johnson, Kaufman, Parker, Rockwall, Travis, and Williamson.

If you need assistance locating a smog check and emissions testing station for a title transfer or vehicle registration, please call (800) 493-5486. Also be sure to find out what, if any, paperwork (such as the new title, registration, or bill or sale) you need to bring.

Smog Check or Emissions Testing Waivers

The purpose of the AirCheck Texas emissions inspections is to keep polluting vehicles off the road, but there are cases in which you can obtain a waiver from having to pass the emissions inspection.

For example, residents who don't drive their vehicles on a regular basis or those who are having trouble getting the parts needed for the repair may request an inspection waiver. People who are having trouble making the necessary repairs because of financial difficulties may qualify for a low-income emissions inspection waiver or a grant to help pay for the repairs through the AirCheck Texas Repair & Replacement Assistance program.