Texas State Inspection Practice

Will a temporary spare tire pass inspection?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only if properly inflated

4. Depends on the tire brand

The correct answer is: No

A temporary spare tire, often referred to as a "donut" tire, is designed for short-term use and typically has limitations regarding speed and distance. In the context of Texas state inspections, the requirement is that all tires on a passenger vehicle must be in good condition and suitable for safe operation. A temporary spare is specifically not considered a full replacement and is generally not acceptable for ongoing use on a vehicle due to its size and design. During an inspection, the state requires that tires be in good condition and meet certain standards, such as adequate tread depth and not being excessively worn or damaged. The temporary spare tire does not meet these criteria for regular use because it is not intended to support the vehicle's full weight or provide the same level of safety as a regular tire. Therefore, a vehicle equipped with only a temporary spare would not pass inspection.