Emissions testing in Texas
Bexar County starts emissions testing on November 1, 2026. Shops can't run the test before that date. If your registration expires in November or December 2026 and you renew before November 1, you skip the test this time.
Gasoline vehicles that are 2 to 24 years old need the test once a year. Electric vehicles, diesels, motorcycles, and mopeds do not. A new vehicle is exempt for the first 2 years.
A shop in Bexar County can't charge more than $18.50 for the emissions test. Texas charges $2.75 when you register.
If the car fails, the same shop retests it once for free within 15 days.
Non-commercial vehicles pay $7.50 at registration, or $16.75 for a new vehicle's first 2 years. That fee replaced the safety inspection on January 1, 2025.
There isn't a separate inspection sticker. The registration sticker is the proof. Get the test in the 90 days before your registration expires.
The AirCheckTexas program that helped pay for repairs is closed.
Dallas, Houston, Austin, and El Paso aren't listed yet.
Questions
When does San Antonio start emissions testing?
November 1, 2026. A Bexar County shop can't do the test before that date. Bexar County emissions rules
How much does the test cost?
A shop in Bexar County can't charge more than $18.50. Texas charges $2.75 when you register. What the test costs
Which vehicles need a test?
Gasoline vehicles that are 2 to 24 years old, once a year. Electric vehicles, diesels, motorcycles, and mopeds do not. A new vehicle is exempt for 2 years. Who needs an emissions test
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