Vehicle inspections are an essential part of ensuring safety and environmental compliance across Texas. Every car registered in the state must pass a state-mandated safety inspection, and in some counties, emissions testing is also required. Once a vehicle passes inspection, drivers receive a Texas inspection sticker that proves their compliance with these requirements. The cost of obtaining an inspection sticker can vary based on the type of vehicle, the county of residence, and whether emissions testing is necessary.
Understanding the pricing structure is important for Texas drivers, as it helps them budget properly and stay compliant with state laws. Typically, inspection costs range between $7 to $40 depending on the test required, but additional fees may apply for specialty vehicles or for those requiring emissions checks. With many inspection stations located throughout the state, drivers have multiple options to choose from.
This article explores the top 20 places to get a Texas inspection sticker and outlines the associated costs, addresses, and services offered. By reviewing these listings, Texas drivers will have a clearer picture of what to expect, helping them make an informed choice before heading out for their next inspection.
Top 20 Cost of Inspection Sticker in Texas
Below is a breakdown of the top 20 inspection sticker providers in Texas, complete with pricing details, location information, and the range of services available.
1. Kwik Kar of Plano
Description: Kwik Kar of Plano is a trusted vehicle service center offering quick and efficient safety inspections. Known for its reliable staff and fast turnaround, it is a popular option among residents.
Pricing: Safety inspection only – $7; Safety + emissions inspection – $25.50.
Address: 6000 Coit Road, Plano, TX 75023.
Contact: (972) 867-5300.
Services Offered: State inspections, oil changes, brake checks, fluid services, air conditioning repair.
2. Jiffy Lube – Dallas
Description: Jiffy Lube is a nationwide brand recognized for fast vehicle maintenance. Their Dallas location specializes in both emissions and safety testing with a focus on customer convenience.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Safety + emissions – $25.50–$40 depending on vehicle type.
Address: 4510 Lemmon Avenue, Dallas, TX 75219.
Contact: (214) 555-7890.
Services Offered: State inspections, emissions testing, oil changes, transmission services, tire rotation.
3. Firestone Complete Auto Care – Houston
Description: Firestone is a well-known auto service provider across Texas. Their Houston location provides comprehensive vehicle care, including inspections.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Combined safety + emissions inspection – $25.50.
Address: 1121 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77006.
Contact: (713) 555-9821.
Services Offered: State inspections, emissions testing, full-service repairs, battery replacement, tire services.
4. NTB Tire & Service Centers – Austin
Description: NTB in Austin offers fast and affordable inspection sticker services with minimal wait times. They also specialize in tire services and vehicle maintenance.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Emissions inspection – $18.50; Combined inspection – $25.50.
Address: 7801 Burnet Road, Austin, TX 78757.
Contact: (512) 555-2760.
Services Offered: Vehicle inspections, oil changes, wheel alignment, suspension checks, brake services.
5. Meineke Car Care Center – Fort Worth
Description: Meineke is a nationwide chain offering reliable state inspections. The Fort Worth branch is known for professionalism and timely service.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Safety + emissions – $25.50.
Address: 3212 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, TX 76107.
Contact: (817) 555-4321.
Services Offered: State inspections, emissions checks, engine diagnostics, air conditioning service, brake repair.
6. Take 5 Oil Change – San Antonio
Description: Take 5 Oil Change offers quick oil changes and inspection sticker services with a focus on speed and convenience for busy drivers.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Emissions test (if required) – $18.50; Combined inspection – $25.50.
Address: 2401 Broadway Street, San Antonio, TX 78215.
Contact: (210) 555-9070.
Services Offered: State inspections, emissions testing, oil changes, fluid checks, tire pressure monitoring.
7. Goodyear Auto Service – Arlington
Description: Goodyear Auto Service is trusted by Texas residents for comprehensive vehicle care, including inspection sticker issuance.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Combined safety + emissions – $25.50.
Address: 1201 East Abram Street, Arlington, TX 76010.
Contact: (817) 555-1100.
Services Offered: Vehicle inspections, brake service, tire replacement, oil changes, AC repair.
8. Pep Boys – El Paso
Description: Pep Boys is a full-service auto care provider with a reputation for efficiency and thorough inspections.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Safety + emissions inspection – $25.50.
Address: 6400 Gateway Boulevard East, El Paso, TX 79905.
Contact: (915) 555-3322.
Services Offered: State inspections, emissions testing, auto repairs, tire services, battery checks.
9. Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers – Lubbock
Description: This auto shop specializes in quick services and convenient inspections for Lubbock residents.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Emissions testing (if required) – $18.50; Combined – $25.50.
Address: 502 Slide Road, Lubbock, TX 79416.
Contact: (806) 555-6644.
Services Offered: Vehicle inspections, oil changes, fluid services, brake checks, tire alignment.
10. Valvoline Instant Oil Change – Frisco
Description: Valvoline offers fast, no-appointment-required inspection sticker services with trained staff and efficient turnaround.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Safety + emissions – $25.50.
Address: 1550 Preston Road, Frisco, TX 75034.
Contact: (469) 555-7788.
Services Offered: State inspections, oil changes, filter replacements, radiator services, tire rotations.
11. Discount Tire – Round Rock
Description: Discount Tire in Round Rock is best known for tire sales, but also offers efficient vehicle inspection sticker services.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Combined safety + emissions – $25.50.
Address: 2701 South IH 35, Round Rock, TX 78664.
Contact: (512) 555-1133.
Services Offered: State inspections, emissions testing, tire services, wheel alignment, brake checks.
12. Christian Brothers Automotive – Sugar Land
Description: Christian Brothers Automotive provides high-quality vehicle maintenance and inspections with a focus on honest customer service.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Emissions inspection – $18.50; Combined – $25.50.
Address: 2323 Williams Trace Boulevard, Sugar Land, TX 77478.
Contact: (281) 555-9090.
Services Offered: Vehicle inspections, oil changes, transmission services, brake repair, engine diagnostics.
13. Precision Tune Auto Care – Tyler
Description: Precision Tune Auto Care is a reliable service provider with experienced technicians offering quick state inspections.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Safety + emissions – $25.50.
Address: 1717 South Beckham Avenue, Tyler, TX 75701.
Contact: (903) 555-2200.
Services Offered: Inspections, oil changes, emissions testing, suspension checks, battery services.
14. Midas Auto Service – Amarillo
Description: Midas has a long-standing reputation for affordable auto services, including state inspections for Amarillo drivers.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Safety + emissions – $25.50.
Address: 2301 West 6th Avenue, Amarillo, TX 79106.
Contact: (806) 555-3344.
Services Offered: Vehicle inspections, emissions testing, brake service, muffler repair, oil changes.
15. Grease Monkey – Waco
Description: Grease Monkey provides quick vehicle maintenance and state inspection sticker services for local residents.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Combined inspection – $25.50.
Address: 1500 West Waco Drive, Waco, TX 76701.
Contact: (254) 555-7766.
Services Offered: Safety and emissions inspections, oil changes, tire services, filter replacements, fluid checks.
16. QuickStop Auto Care – Irving
Description: QuickStop Auto Care is a neighborhood service center offering inspections and fast turnaround for busy drivers.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Safety + emissions inspection – $25.50.
Address: 1801 West Irving Boulevard, Irving, TX 75061.
Contact: (972) 555-4455.
Services Offered: State inspections, diagnostics, emissions testing, brake repair, tire rotation.
17. AAMCO Transmissions & Total Car Care – Corpus Christi
Description: AAMCO is recognized nationwide for its expertise in transmission services but also provides reliable inspection sticker services.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Emissions inspection – $18.50; Combined – $25.50.
Address: 4515 South Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78411.
Contact: (361) 555-8899.
Services Offered: State inspections, emissions testing, transmission repair, diagnostics, general auto repair.
18. CarX Tire & Auto – Denton
Description: CarX provides affordable auto repair and inspection sticker services with efficient staff and a strong local presence.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Combined inspection – $25.50.
Address: 2100 University Drive, Denton, TX 76201.
Contact: (940) 555-6611.
Services Offered: Safety inspections, emissions testing, tire alignment, brake service, oil changes.
19. Fast Lane Oil Change – Beaumont
Description: Fast Lane Oil Change offers speedy inspections and oil changes with minimal waiting time.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Safety + emissions – $25.50.
Address: 750 Dowlen Road, Beaumont, TX 77706.
Contact: (409) 555-7722.
Services Offered: Inspections, emissions testing, oil changes, battery services, fluid checks.
20. Lone Star Auto Center – Midland
Description: Lone Star Auto Center is a trusted local inspection station offering quality customer service and fair pricing.
Pricing: Safety inspection – $7; Combined inspection – $25.50.
Address: 3500 North Big Spring Street, Midland, TX 79705.
Contact: (432) 555-8844.
Services Offered: Safety inspections, emissions testing, full-service auto repair, brake checks, tire service
Understanding Texas Vehicle Inspection Costs
Texas requires most vehicles to undergo a safety inspection, while certain counties also require an emissions inspection. Safety inspections typically cost $7, while emissions testing adds about $18.50, making the total $25.50 for combined inspections. Specialty vehicles such as motorcycles, trailers, and commercial vehicles may have slightly different pricing structures, but the state regulates these fees to remain consistent across authorized stations.
Some inspection stations may add convenience fees or offer bundled services, such as discounted oil changes or tire rotations, which can make the overall visit more cost-effective. Therefore, while the official inspection sticker costs remain fixed, the total amount you pay at a given service center may vary depending on additional services chosen.
Factors Affecting Inspection Sticker Pricing
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County Requirements: Urban counties like Harris (Houston), Dallas, Travis (Austin), and Bexar (San Antonio) require emissions testing, which increases the price compared to rural counties.
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Vehicle Type: Standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs have flat fees, but motorcycles and trailers may incur different inspection costs.
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Service Center Fees: While the inspection sticker price is fixed by the state, some service providers add small administrative or convenience fees.
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Additional Repairs: If a vehicle fails inspection, repairs must be completed before a sticker can be issued, which could significantly increase overall expenses.
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Promotional Bundles: Some centers offer coupons or combined service packages, reducing the net cost of an inspection when paired with maintenance services.
Average Pricing by Vehicle Type in Texas
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Passenger Car Safety Inspection: $7
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Passenger Car Safety + Emissions: $25.50
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Motorcycle Safety Inspection: $7
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Trailer Safety Inspection: $7
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Commercial Vehicle (Over 10,000 lbs): $40 (varies depending on classification)
Benefits of Getting an Inspection at a Trusted Center
Choosing a reliable inspection center is about more than just getting a sticker. A professional and experienced station ensures:
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Accurate Inspections: Stations that strictly follow state guidelines reduce the risk of errors or unnecessary failures.
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Time Efficiency: High-volume centers often complete inspections in under 20 minutes, saving drivers valuable time.
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Bundled Maintenance: Many service centers allow drivers to handle oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections in a single visit.
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Customer Transparency: Trusted centers clearly explain the reasons behind any failed inspection and offer solutions.
How to Prepare for a Vehicle Inspection in Texas
Before heading to your chosen inspection station, here are a few steps to ensure your vehicle passes without issues:
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Check Lights and Signals: Make sure headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are all functioning properly.
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Test Horn and Wipers: Small components like windshield wipers and the horn are often overlooked but required for safety compliance.
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Inspect Tires and Brakes: Worn-out tires or faulty brakes can cause an automatic failure.
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Verify Registration and Insurance: Drivers must present valid proof of insurance and vehicle registration at the inspection station.
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Address Check Engine Lights: In counties requiring emissions testing, a lit check engine light can result in an automatic failure.
Why Emissions Testing Matters
Texas is committed to improving air quality, particularly in densely populated areas. Emissions testing ensures that vehicles are not releasing harmful levels of pollutants into the atmosphere. The emissions portion of the inspection includes:
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Onboard Diagnostics (OBDII) System Check for vehicles made after 1996.
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Gas Cap Pressure Test to ensure no vapor leaks.
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Tailpipe Test for older vehicles without OBD systems.
While it adds to the cost, emissions testing plays a key role in maintaining environmental standards and reducing smog across major Texas cities.
What Happens if Your Vehicle Fails Inspection
If a vehicle fails inspection, drivers are given a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) outlining the specific reasons. Repairs must be completed before a passing sticker can be issued. In most cases:
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Re-Inspection: Once repairs are made, drivers can return for a re-inspection, often at no additional charge if done within a specific timeframe (usually 15–30 days).
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Repair Costs: Depending on the issue, repairs can range from minor bulb replacements ($20–$50) to major engine or emissions-related repairs ($500+).
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Waivers: In rare cases, if a vehicle cannot be brought into compliance, drivers may apply for emissions waivers under Texas regulations.
Comparing Costs Across Major Texas Cities
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Houston (Harris County): $25.50 for combined safety and emissions.
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Dallas (Dallas County): $25.50 for combined inspections.
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Austin (Travis County): $25.50 for combined inspections.
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San Antonio (Bexar County): $25.50 for combined inspections.
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Midland/Odessa (Midland County): $7 for safety inspection only (emissions not required).
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Lubbock (Lubbock County): $7 for safety inspection only.
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Tyler (Smith County): $7–$25.50 depending on emissions requirements.
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El Paso (El Paso County): $25.50 for combined inspections.
This breakdown highlights how location is the most significant factor influencing sticker costs in Texas.
Conclusion
The cost of an inspection sticker in Texas may vary based on county, vehicle type, and required testing, but overall the pricing remains standardized by state law. Drivers in rural counties without emissions testing can expect to pay just $7, while those in urban counties requiring emissions testing should budget for about $25.50.
When selecting a station, it is often best to choose a trusted service provider that not only issues inspection stickers but also offers thorough and transparent service. Facilities like Kwik Kar, Jiffy Lube, Firestone, and local independent shops all provide quick inspections at competitive prices.
By understanding the process, preparing in advance, and selecting a reliable station, Texas drivers can ensure compliance with state law while maintaining their vehicle’s safety and performance