Texas Vehicle Exhaust Noise Laws
State of Texas has laws governing the noise limit your vehicle can produce. Many car enthusiasts decide to modify their car’s exhaust system so it is crucial to be aware that exhaust noise laws exist.
Below we’re summarizing all relevant laws and legislation pertaining to car exhaust noise laws in Texas.
The following law excerpts are from Texas Transportation Code, § 547.604(a).
Sec. 547.604. MUFFLER REQUIRED.
(a) A motor vehicle shall be equipped with a muffler in good working condition that continually operates to prevent excessive or unusual noise.
(b) A person may not use a muffler cutout, bypass, or similar device on a motor vehicle.
Texas exhaust noise laws summary:
Any exhaust system modifications on vehicles registered in Texas must not produce “excessive or unusual” noise.
In essence this means many exhaust system modifications frequently done on sports or racing vehicles can be considered illegal. If you install aftermarket exhaust modifications you have to make sure it does not produce excessive noise.
Texas laws do not specify noise limit in decibels, therefore the law is open to interpretation. Exhaust noise is not checked during vehicle exhaust inspections.
Sources and more info:
- Texas Transportation Code § 547.604(a) (see in Subtitle C: Rules of the Road, Chapter 547: Vehicle Equipment, Subchapter K: Provisions relating to other vehicle equipment, Section 604: Muffler Required).
Please remember that state laws are subject to change. It is important to review the current statutes and regulations in Texas but also consult your local city or county to ensure accurate information.