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City Cast Houston

new state law ended the Vehicle Safety Inspection program

 for non-commercial vehicles in Texas. So, what does this mean? Do you still need a vehicle inspection and emissions test – or can you skip the process altogether? The answer is more complicated than you think.

No, if you have a non-commercial vehicle then you don’t need a vehicle inspection. Instead, you will have to pay a $7.50 inspection program replacement fee when you register your vehicle with the 

. If you’re new to Texas and have not registered your car yet, then you’ll pay $16.75 to cover two years.

Yes, emissions tests are still required in major metropolitan areas. If you live in one of the major counties in our region – Harris, Fort Bend, Galveston, Brazoria, or Montgomery – then you’ll still need to get an emissions test. 

Although safety inspections are gone, you still have

 You can do it online, by mail, or in person at a county tax office or a grocery store, such as HEB or Kroger.

If you have a commercial vehicle that you use for your business, then you will still have to get it inspected. Since you have to pay for an actual vehicle inspection, you don’t have to pay the $7.50 fee to replace the inspection.

Is it still required to get a car inspection in Texas? 

Do You Still Need a Car Inspection in Texas?

What Houstonians have been wondering. We break down why things in Houston are the way they are and how they work.

Houston, Explained

 yet? If not — from one procrastinator to another — this is a PSA that your non-REAL ID driver’s license isn’t gonna cut it at airport security starting May 7, 2025 that's less than a month from now!

For most purposes, REAL IDs and other state-issued ID cards aren’t that different. The main distinction is that, starting early May, state-issued IDs that aren’t considered REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted by the TSA.

 for the types of documents you have to show to get an ID card that’s considered acceptable for domestic air travel (i.e., a REAL ID), and it also lays out the types of anti-counterfeiting measures states should take when issuing the cards.

Implementation has been delayed … a lot. Enforcement of the law was supposed to start in 2008, but not all states offered REAL ID-compliant cards, and 

 against the requirements because of privacy or cost issues. The most recent delay was to provide states with more time to 

How Can I Tell If My ID is Already a REAL ID?

Whether your ID was issued by Texas or another state, it 

should have a gold star in the upper corner

 if it’s considered REAL ID-compliant. 

Here's how that would look with Texas IDs

It depends. You’ll need one if you’re 18 or older and want to take a domestic flight, get into a federal government facility that requires ID, or enter a military base — unless you have a different form of federally-accepted ID that you can show instead, like a passport or military ID.

If your current license hasn’t expired, 

. This is usually the fastest way to get a REAL ID.

steps through the Texas Department of Public Safety

Not able to renew online, or prefer to do it in person? Find a 

. Be mindful of appointment wait times — 

find up-to-date estimated availability here

 to ensure you’re prepared for your visit.

REAL IDs will be required for boarding all domestic flights starting May 7, 2025. Have you gotten your REAL ID yet? Here's how to get one in Texas.

How to Get a REAL ID in Texas

Tips and tricks for living your best Houston life, by locals, for locals.

Houston Life Hacks

We’re only days away from the official deadline to file your tax return on April 15. Still trying to figure out how to get it done on time? Well, there’s free tax help offered across the Houston area. Here are some resources to help you during crunch time!

The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly program offers free help to Houston taxpayers. Some centers offer services in other languages, including Vietnamese, Chinese, and Spanish. Use 

tax prep help at BakerRipley at multiple locations across Houston.

 The community development group has professional tax services for families and individuals earning $58,000 a year or less.

The Harris County Public Library is also offering 

free tax preparation assistance at locations across Houston

The University of Houston-Downtown’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance 

offers free tax help to senior citizens and the disabled

 and those earning $76,000 a year or less. You can drop in for an in-person session on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Saturdays, or a virtual appointment during designated hours.

Where to Get Free Tax Help in Houston

Welcome to a brand new month, and a brand new year! Whether you’re looking to get more active, volunteer, make new friends, or just have fun around H-town, January is packed with all things new for you 😊

Want to do a little shopping and add some new plants to your home? Check out the 

Bloom and Brew Market at Equal Parts Brewing Co

, where you can snag plants, jewelry, candles, and other goodies on Jan 4. Admire beautiful artwork and shop from local artists every second Saturday of the month at Sawyer Yards 

. Do you love animals and exploring? Go on a 

nighttime owl hike with your whole family

 on Jan. 18 at the Houston Arboretum, where you’ll learn more about the animals and enjoy hot chocolate, coffee, and snacks! Finally, 

watch the play “Camp Logan” at the Ensemble Theatre

 on Jan. 24, which honors the history of African-American soldiers and is inspired by true events.

Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to be more active? If so, January is a great month to get outdoors and into your exercise groove. 

 is an organization perfect for a Houston gal looking for friendship and a way to kickstart healthy habits. Check out their weekly walks every Sunday at 9 a.m. starting from Buffalo Bayou Park, or 

their first brunch of the year at The Breakfast Klub 

 is another way to get out and about — but for the men! They host early morning workouts all over Houston, where you can find fellowship, fitness, and faith. Every second Sunday of the month, 

, taught in English and Spanish, held right outside of the Museum of the Fine Arts, Houston.

Want to level up your gardening skills and also connect with others? Check out Third Ward’s 

, one of the oldest member community gardens in Houston. Spend $5 per month to grow your own herbs, vegetables, and fruits in your own plot of land. Then, on the first Saturday of each month, the community comes together to garden and learn from one another. On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, YMCAs throughout Houston are 

, where you can give back and honor the legendary civil rights leader. Finally, 

volunteer at the 47th Annual “Original” M.L.K. Jr. Parade

The best ways to volunteer, make friends, or try something new in January around Houston.

Your Guide to Houston in January 2025

The Best Activities for January 2025 in Houston

Find the best of everything that Houston has to offer.

Houston’s Best

Houston's Best

Now that that holiday excitement is beginning to turn into “new year, new me” energy, an important question remains: What should you do with all that torn up wrapping paper? And what about the Christmas tree that’s been dropping pine needles all over your rug? Here are some tips for recycling and responsibly disposing of holiday waste.

The short answer: Probably not. Most of the gift wrapping paper on the market is non-recyclable. Putting it in the recycling bin can contaminate the rest of the load, meaning that all the contents will go to the landfill. The same goes for items like ribbons, holiday cards, and 

recycle a natural tree through the regular streetside program

 if it can fit in the bin. But your best bet is to recycle it through the city. Most recycled trees are turned into wood chips, mulch, or compost, so be sure to prep your tree for recycling by removing any decor, lights, and non-organic items. You can also get creative and 

repurpose your tree for other home projects

 If the tree is in decent condition, and you’re just ready for a new one, consider donating it to a local organization or charity. 

 also accepts tree and decoration donations to distribute to families in need around the world.

If you have unusable decorations or holiday lights, recycle them at 

 locations will take your faulty holiday lights and recycle them for you.

Are your decorations in good working order? Give them a new life by donating them to a local organization, a thrift store, or hardware store.

I’ll leave you with one last tip for the overachievers out there: Take notes on 

how to reduce your holiday waste next year

Where should you recycle your Christmas tree? How do you responsibly get rid of holiday trash? 

Where to Recycle Your Christmas Tree in Houston 

How to Responsibly Dispose of Holiday Waste

Time is ticking, and it almost feels like Election Day 

 😉 But, it is actually closer than you think! Early voting in Texas begins on Oct. 21 and Election Day is on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

The deadline to register to vote in Texas is less than a month away on 

 Last month, Gov. Greg Abbott announced that 

more than one million ineligible voters in Texas were removed

 from voter rolls. So, how can you check if you’re registered? Do you need to update your address or voter information? I have you covered below!

 on the Texas Secretary of State’s website to see if you’re registered to vote. You’ll need some basic information: date of birth, name and drivers license information. If you have your Voter Unique Identification Number, or 

, which can be found on your voter registration card, then you can also check the rolls with that.

Before registering to vote, be sure to check these eligibility requirements:

18 years old on Election Day. (You can register at 17 years old and 10 months.)

Resident of the county you’re registering in

Are not a convicted felon, unless your sentence is complete, including probation and parole.

Not declared mentally incapacitated by a court of law.

You can fill out your voter registration application online, 

but you still have to mail it to your local county voter registrar.

 The address for your county voter registrar will appear once you’ve filled out the application.

and submit your completed application form. Pick up an application from the U.S. Post Office, a public library, an office of the Texas Department of Public Safety office, or Texas Health and Human Services Commission offices.

 and an application will be mailed to you.

 You’ll need some key information, like your current driver's license or ID card, Social Security Number, and voter registration number.

How to make sure you're registered in Texas for the November 2024 election. 

Your 2024 Guide to Registering to Vote in Texas 

Your Guide to Registering to Vote in Texas 

Many Houstonians are still picking up the pieces after the rare derecho that 

caused an estimated $5 to $8 billion in damage

. Meanwhile, severe weather on Tuesday caused thousands to lose power again. So, how can you help Houstonians affected by recent storms?

served nearly 1 million pounds of food to community partners. 

They put out an urgent request for volunteers to help sort and pack nonperishable food items, cleaning supplies, and package hot meals in their kitchen. Sign-up 

West Houston Assistance MInistries is a non-profit that provides social services to Houstonians. 

Donate gently worn clothing and household items

items on specific days to their food pantry. 

The most requested items include: canned foods, peanut butter and jelly, mac and cheese, pasta and other noodles.

one of Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center’s donor centers

 to donate blood at the American Red Cross of Greater Houston.

shows active volunteer opportunities to assist with disaster relief

 in Houston. Some volunteer opportunities include serving food to those in need and assisting with clean-up through God’s Pit Crew, Mercy Chefs, The Restoration Team, and Samaritan’s Purse.

Did I miss an opportunity? Have you been serving to help Houston? 

How did a rare derecho form in Houston?

Many Houstonians are still picking up the pieces after the rare derecho that caused an estimated $5 to $8 billion in damage. So, how can you help?

How to Help Houston Storm Victims

The Best Ways To Help Houston Storm Victims

Birds are starting to build their nests — and you may see some pop up in your backyard! The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service shared these tips so you can 

make sure the babies stay with their parents.

They sometimes leave the nest before their feathers fully grow out. Don’t be concerned!

The first flight doesn’t always go smoothly, and a bird may flutter to the ground. Parents are usually in the area and ready to help them.

Most birds have multiple chicks, and the parents will split their time looking after their brood.

If a baby bird is out in the direct sun or exposed to predators, gently move the bird into a nearby shrub. Try to use a bush near where you found the chick so that its parents can easily find it.

Myth busting! It’s not true that a mother bird will abandon a chick that has 

If you find a bird (or any wildlife) with visible injuries, contact a licensed rehabilitator. 

How can you help Houston's baby bird population? 

How To Help Houston's Baby Birds

Get to know the natural side of Houston: the plants, animals, weather and more that make our city unique.

Houston Urban Almanac

Urban Almanac

Is your car registration about ready to expire? Are you new to Texas and trying to figure out how to get your car registered? I always dread renewing my registration, but I’m here to make your process as painless as possible. Let’s get to it!

First, you’ll need to get your vehicle inspected at a certified vehicle inspection station. Use 

 to get your new Texas license plates and registration sticker.

Make sure to bring a copy of your insurance, a copy of the vehicle inspection report, and proof that you own the vehicle or title from your previous state.

If you have a document showing foreign/military ownership or foreign evidence of ownership, then you can bring that with you too.

Wondering how much this is gonna cost? Here’s a breakdown 

 might be the move. You can renew online 90 days before your sticker expires and up to 12 months after your sticker expires, as long as you don’t receive a citation for expired registration. It can take up to three weeks for your new registration sticker to arrive in the mail.

using the Texas by Texas mobile application

, which is a digital assistant that allows you to renew your registration. The app is available in the 

If you want to renew by mail, you’ll send these items to your county tax office: renewal notice, a copy of your vehicle inspection report, proof of insurance, and your payment for registration fees.

Finally, you can go in person to your local county tax office or an approved substation. My go-to substation 

. In person, they will likely be able to look up whether your car has passed inspection or not. However, make sure to bring your copy of insurance and registration renewal notice.

Some helpful news: Starting in Jan. 2025, Texas drivers 

will not have to get their non-commerical vehicles inspected

How To Renew Your Texas Vehicle Registration 

Houston has dealt with stray animal issues for years. There are reportedly 

more than 1 million stray dogs and cats in the city

. So, what should you do if you come across a stray?

If you’re driving around or walking in your neighborhood, you might spot a stray animal. When this happens, it’s your job to keep you and the animal safe. The best option is to 

 and report the animal. This gives the animal a better chance of being reunited with their owner. Animal control may also be able to come to the scene and assist you. If you decide to take the animal yourself, be careful. Safely restrain them and take them to a local shelter.

Make sure you let your local animal control agency know, so the animal can be located if an owner comes looking.

Get the animal scanned for a microchip at your local vet. 

Post signs and photos of the animal in your neighborhood or at the local vet.

Get the animal a physical check-up at your local vet.

Make sure to separate the stray animal from your other pets at home until they get adjusted and the stray has a check-up at the vet.

If you can’t find the owner, then you may decide to keep the pet yourself, take it to your local shelter, or rehome with a friend or family member.

If you know you have a knack for finding lost animals and rescuing them, then here are items you’ll want on hand: animal first-aid kit, water bowls, water, dog or cat food, cat carrier, cardboard box, collars, leashes, phone number of local animal control or shelters.

Want to protect your pets from the upcoming hurricane season? 

More than 10,000 stray animals have been picked up by Houston’s animal control officers within the last year. So, what should you do if you come across a stray?

local life hacks

Do You Still Need a Car Inspection in Texas?

How to Get a REAL ID in Texas

Where to Get Free Tax Help in Houston

Latest articles

Do You Still Need a Car Inspection in Texas?

How to Get a REAL ID in Texas

Where to Get Free Tax Help in Houston

The Best Activities for January 2025 in Houston

How to Responsibly Dispose of Holiday Waste

Your Guide to Registering to Vote in Texas

The Best Ways To Help Houston Storm Victims

Latest articles

The Best Activities for January 2025 in Houston

How to Responsibly Dispose of Holiday Waste

Your Guide to Registering to Vote in Texas

The Best Ways To Help Houston Storm Victims

How To Help Houston's Baby Birds

How To Renew Your Texas Vehicle Registration

What To Do With A Stray Animal