Vehicle Safety Inspection Alert: Starting January 1, 2025, non-commercial vehicles will not require a safety inspection prior to obtaining a Texas vehicle registration. Emission inspections will still be required in the 17 currently designated counties. Please note: The Texas.gov Help Desk cannot answer vehicle inspection questions. Visit the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles website for more information.

Exploring and Visiting Texas

There’s something for everyone in Texas! From one-of-a-kind state parks and historical landmarks to some of the best music and food around, explore Texas culture, and find your niche.

Quick Links

Use the links below to go directly to a service or agency page.

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Behind the Photo Video Series Presented by Texas.gov

Behind every photo on a Texas driver license or ID is a story too rich to be captured on that small card we carry. Get to know more about Texans who are preserving traditions, fostering community, and challenging expectations. Their stories may differ, but they share a common bond: They’re Texans.

Learn more about our featured Texans
Woman in denim blue shirt and pants standing in front of an oil pumper

Find recreational services and information

Our state agencies help preserve and promote parks, historic sites, and landmarks across the entire state. Find what you need below.

Texas state parks

Texas offers a variety of state park passes for outdoor enthusiasts, senior citizens, and youth groups.

Purchase a state park pass

Texas national parks

Texas is home to 14 national parks operated by the National Parks Service.

Visit a national park in Texas

Historic sites and tours

Experience our state’s heritage through historic sites, trails, and more.

Download historic guides and maps

Have some fun

Find things to do with official guides, maps, lists of attractions, and more.

Explore attractions

Texas State Fair

The Texas State Fair has celebrated the state’s agriculture, education, food, and community since 1886.

Head to the fair

Virtual history exhibits

View historical documents, photographs, and artifacts online from the Texas State Historical Commission.

Browse archives and exhibits

Recreation for kids

Texas offers a wide arrange of events and activities for kids to explore the outdoors.

Check out events and activities

Official Texas flags

Order an official Texas flag from the Texas House of Representatives.

Order a Texas flag

Texas state symbols

Learn about the official state symbols of Texas, including the state bird and flower, from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.

View state symbols

Get a fishing and hunting license this season

Texas offers fishing and hunting licenses, tags, and permits online and at retailers. Whether you’re new to the sport, or a lifelong enthusiast, there are options for you. 

Learn about fishing and hunting licenses

Learn how our agencies can help you

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Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD)

  • Fishing and hunting
  • State parks
  • Boating
  • Wildlife
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Texas Historical Commission (THC)

  • Historic sites, trails, and landmarks
  • State preservation programs
  • State history education
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Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC)

  • Library services
  • Archives and manuscripts
  • Genealogy
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Texas A&M Forest Service (TFS)

  • Wildfires and disasters
  • Forests lands management
  • Urban forestry

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