Air Quality / Vehicle Inspection
Your Car Must Pass an Emissions Check in Harris County Each Year
Harris County is part of the Houston-Galveston-Brazoria emissions program, so most gasoline cars must pass an enhanced emissions inspection every year.
Harris County is part of the Houston-Galveston-Brazoria (HGB) area. The EPA rated this area as Serious Nonattainment for ozone. That means the air has too much smog. Because of this, Texas requires a tougher emissions test for vehicles here. Most gasoline cars between 2 and 24 model years old must pass it every year.
You cannot register your car until you pass the test. Electric vehicles, diesel vehicles, motorcycles, and mopeds do not need it. If your renewal notice shows 'TCEQ – EMISSIONS PRGM NON-COMPLIANCE,' call 1-888-295-0141. To find a certified shop near you, use the DPS station locator at dps.texas.gov.
Source to confirm: TCEQ – Vehicle Emissions Inspections Overview