Do Trailers Need Inspection in Texas? Here’s What You Really Need to Know
If you own a trailer in Texas—or plan to buy one soon—there’s one big question that confuses a lot of people: Do trailers need inspection in Texas? The answer depends on your trailer’s weight and whether it has brakes.
Let’s clear up the confusion and explain exactly when trailer inspections are required in the Lone Star State.
Do Trailers Need Inspection in Texas?
Yes, trailers in Texas require inspection—but only if they have a gross weight of over 7,500 pounds or are equipped with electric or hydraulic brakes. Light-duty trailers under this threshold and without brakes generally do not need inspection.
So, whether or not your trailer needs an inspection depends on:
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Gross weight rating (GVWR)
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Brake system
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Type of trailer
Let’s break this down further.
Which Trailers Need Inspection in Texas?
Here’s a quick reference table:
| Trailer Type | Inspection Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Utility trailer < 7,500 lbs | No | No inspection unless it has brakes |
| Utility trailer ≥ 7,500 lbs | Yes | Inspection required annually |
| Boat trailer < 7,500 lbs | No | Exempt unless it has brakes |
| Boat trailer ≥ 7,500 lbs | Yes | Braked and heavy trailers must be inspected |
| Travel trailer (camper) | Yes | Required if ≥ 7,500 lbs or has brakes |
| Livestock trailer | Yes | If equipped with brakes or heavy load |
| Homemade trailer | Depends | Weight and brake system determine inspection need |
What Triggers a Trailer Inspection in Texas?
There are two main triggers for trailer inspections:
1. Weight Over 7,500 lbs
Any trailer—regardless of type—that exceeds a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 7,500 pounds must be inspected annually at a certified inspection station.
This applies whether you’re using it for personal or commercial use.
2. Brake System
If your trailer is equipped with brakes (electric, hydraulic, or surge), it must be inspected, even if it weighs less than 7,500 lbs.
Why? Because trailers with brakes are considered more complex and can present more road safety risks, so Texas law mandates an annual safety check.
What Does the Trailer Inspection Involve?
A Texas trailer inspection is similar to a vehicle safety check. It includes:
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Brake system check (if applicable)
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Tire condition
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Lights and reflectors
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Hitch and coupling mechanism
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Safety chains
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License plate light
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Turn signals and brake lights
If your trailer passes, the inspector will issue a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) and enter the results into the state system. You won’t receive a sticker—trailer inspections in Texas don’t require a windshield or plate sticker like cars.
When and Where Do You Get a Trailer Inspected in Texas?
When:
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Required annually if inspection is needed.
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You must have a current inspection before registration or renewal.
Where:
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At any Department of Public Safety (DPS)-certified inspection station
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Many automotive shops, truck stops, and trailer dealers offer trailer inspections
Make sure to call ahead and confirm they can inspect trailers, especially if yours is larger or commercial-grade.
What Happens If You Skip the Inspection?
If your trailer is subject to inspection and you don’t get it:
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You can’t register or renew registration
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You may be fined if pulled over
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Your trailer may be impounded if it’s unregistered
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Insurance claims may be denied after an accident
So, even though it’s tempting to skip, getting your trailer inspected is critical if required.
Do You Need Proof of Inspection to Register a Trailer in Texas?
Yes. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) checks the inspection record electronically during registration.
If you’re:
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Registering a trailer for the first time
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Renewing trailer registration
Then your trailer must be:
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Inspected (if required)
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Passed and logged in the DPS system
You don’t need to bring the paper VIR—the system will automatically verify the inspection during registration.
What About Out-of-State Trailers?
If you bring a trailer into Texas from another state:
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You must meet Texas laws for registration and inspection
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If it’s over 7,500 lbs or has brakes, it must be inspected in Texas—even if it was inspected elsewhere
You’ll need to complete a VIN inspection (Form VTR-270) and possibly a weigh station certificate, depending on the trailer’s classification.
Conclusion
Yes, trailers in Texas need an inspection—but only if they weigh over 7,500 lbs or are equipped with brakes. Lighter, brake-less trailers are exempt, but anything more complex needs to be checked annually to stay road legal.
If your trailer fits the criteria, don’t wait—get it inspected before renewing your registration. It’s fast, inexpensive, and keeps you on the right side of the law.
Ready to roll? Check your trailer’s weight and brake system, and if required, book an inspection with a certified station today
