Car inspection? (Dallas, San Antonio, North Richland Hills: car registration, insurance, home)

[sparkles]

Greetings! My name is Amy and I'm moving to North Richland Hills in 2.5 weeks from Orlando, FL. I just realized that Texas requires auto inspections before you can get tags in this state.

The question is.. do they inspect mechanical issues only, or do they go into body issues as well (I have illegal tint, 15% all the way around, and dont want to peel it off if I dont need to).

Also, I understand that when moving to Texas you have 30 days to change your license.. Would the process be Auto inspection, License then Tags? Or am I forgetting something? I already have my insurance, and will be transferring it to my new address, so thats done already.

Thanks for all the help!!

[Synopsis]

As for inspections Amy, they are mostly geared toward emission testing for smog, and safety such as brakes, steering, lights, etc. I don't know about the tinting, what's illegal in Fl may be legal in Texas (the sun is awful bright here!).

I don't know about the 30 days to change your license. That seems kind of fast. Anyone else know?
Welcome to Texas!

[BRMan]

Originally Posted by Synopsis

As for inspections Amy, they are mostly geared toward emission testing for smog, and safety such as brakes, steering, lights, etc. I don't know about the tinting, what's illegal in Fl may be legal in Texas (the sun is awful bright here!).

I don't know about the 30 days to change your license. That seems kind of fast. Anyone else know?
Welcome to Texas!

When I lived in Dallas years ago, I recall something like the 30 day rule. And I think you had to get your inspection and insurance first, so you could then go get your license/tags.

One thing which was a drag then was that it took them 4-6 weeks to mail you your license.

[GoPadge]

According to DPS (Department of Public Safety) you have 30 days to secure a Texas license.

1) I am new to Texas, what do I need to do in order to get a Texas license?

A new resident moving into Texas who has a valid driver license from his home state, has 30 days after entry into the state to secure a Texas driver license. In addition to testing, all first time original applicants must visit a Texas Driver License office and present and do the following: Texas Transportation Code 521.029.



New residents previously licensed in another state:

Proof of Identity.
Proof of Social Security Number.
Proof of Texas vehicle registration and liability insurance, if you own a vehicle.
Complete required forms available at any Texas Driver License office.
Pay the required fee.
Pass the vision exam.

Application must include photograph and thumbprints; however, thumbprints are not included on the driver license.

If you have a VALID out-of-state license in your possession, please bring it to the driver license office to surrender.

NOTE: If you have an EXPIRED out-of-state license, you will be required to pass both the written and driving* exams, in addition to a vision test.

* Applicant must provide vehicle.1

As you can see, you'll need to already have you car registered.

I just moved to Texas. How do I register my vehicle?

Your vehicle must first pass a vehicle safety inspection and an inspection of the vehicle identification number. These services are available at a state-approved Safety Inspection Station. The inspection facility will provide you with a Vehicle Identification Certificate (Form VI-30-A). You must submit this form to the county tax office along with an application for certificate of title. Title and registration fees are due at the county tax office at the time the application for title is made. Liability insurance is required in Texas before these services are provided. 2

1http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/administration/driver_licensing_control/faq/answers_dl_id.htm#q1 (broken link)

2http://www.tarrantcounty.com/etax/cw...A=765&Q=431091

[sparkles]

Thanks! It would have been an aggravating day otherwise!

[socketz]

I registered my car here recently and it was a breeze. California makes this process feel like a cattle call. I was amazed at how fast/simple it was.

[Newk]

I am going through the very same thing, as I just moved to San Antonio. But apparently Texas honors my VA inspection as long as it hasn't expired, so I am okay with that. See if there is reciprocity(sp?) between FL and TX.

Good Luck.

[Newk]

Actually maybe I am wrong. This website confused me:

Out-of-state Motorists

Seems like you have to be a resident of TX or something.

[Grainraiser]

This may sound strange but go to a trashy gas station to get your inspection done. More than likely they won't take the time to check your window tint. The worst the place looks the less they will check on your car on average. The sticker will be the exact same.

[mntnmama]

We just moved over the summer and it's a bit of a hassle to get everything square. Before you get your license (30days) you need to register your car. The inspection is for safety items and it cost us $35. Then we go to the transportation office and register the car, then to get your license you need two forms of ID like passport and out of state license,car registration,proof of insurance. It took us an entire day with alot of back and forth...good luck