Cobra Registration Renewal

Rockbit

Rockbit

Member
Joined
Apr 10, 2023
First Name
Chris
Last Name
Byrd
Spouse
Sheila
City
Dallas
Chapter
Dallas / Ft. Worth
I’ve seen discussions about registration renewals and thought I would share my recent experience. My Cobra is registered as an Assembled Vehicle and I live in Dallas County.

I took my renewal notice that I had received in the mail to the customer service desk at a nearby Tom Thumb. The clerked asked me if I had gotten an inspection and I replied ‘It’s exempt’. She said ok, printed my sticker, and took off the $7 inspection fee. The renewal was $68.50.
 
Tried to register my Cobra today and was denied

Told I needed emission test and inspection

Was told when I purchased that it was exempt from needing inspection
 
bwcobra15 said:
Download the Texas DMV manual for Assembled and Reconstructed Vehicles, and read Chapter 4: Kit Cars. All you answers are here:




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And then take a copy of that to the DMV with you. Organize all your documents in order. They don’t do this often so many don’t know. Mine knew there was a process, but had to make a call. She was gone for about ten minutes and came back with my registration.
 
I went through same. Registration denied because Emission test/inspection required. A Catch-22 event. No OBD port => hence NO Emission inspection => hence NO renewal. The "manual" is vague and does NOT provide a clear path to how these cars should be registered. The local TAX OFFICES are interpreting these guidelines to different individual outcomes (as noted by members). I have filed a "complaint" with the State of TX (Rep Tom Craddick - Transportation chair) and my local representatives.
 
The simple answer is: Register/title as ASVE "Custom Vehicle". One time inspection by ASE Certified Master Mechanic, then NO safety or emissions testing ever again. I just walk into the tax office, pay my registration, leave with a new window sticker.
 
Rockbit said:
I’ve seen discussions about registration renewals and thought I would share my recent experience. My Cobra is registered as an Assembled Vehicle and I live in Dallas County.

I took my renewal notice that I had received in the mail to the customer service desk at a nearby Tom Thumb. The clerked asked me if I had gotten an inspection and I replied ‘It’s exempt’. She said ok, printed my sticker, and took off the $7 inspection fee. The renewal was $68.50.
Click to expand...
I completed my Superformance III. It is an assembled vehicle. It was inspected by a certified mechanic after completion,
I used the texas dmv portal to register for 2026 and my sticker is in the mail. I live in Tarrant County
 
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