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Bexar County Emissions Testing: OCCC Guidance on Contract Disclosures

Bexar County emissions testing requirements took effect November 1, 2026, for qualifying vehicles. For independent dealers, the change also raises a practical question: How should emissions inspection fees be disclosed in retail installment contracts?

OCCC Guidance on Inspection Fee Disclosures

The Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner (OCCC) encourages dealers to disclose the fee paid to the inspection station on a separate line labeled “Vehicle emissions inspection fee” or similar wording. Any inspection fee paid to the state or county should be listed separately under “Official fees paid to government agencies” or similar wording.

The OCCC's amended model contract includes both lines. For example, if a dealer pays $18.50 to the inspection station and $2.75 to the state, the fees may be disclosed as follows:

Vehicle emissions inspection fee: $18.50
Official fees paid to government agencies: $2.75

Still Using an Older Contract Form?

The OCCC identifies two alternatives for dealers whose forms do not include the updated disclosure lines:

Use the previous inspection-fee format. List the charges separately as “To state” and “To station” under “Government vehicle inspection fees.”

Use the Other Charges section. List each fee on a separate line with wording that accurately identifies the charge.

Dealers should review their retail installment contract forms to ensure emissions inspection fees are properly disclosed and verify which vehicles are subject to testing under current requirements.

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