Need help registering my M38a1 in Texas...

[linx310]

Does my M38A1 require an inspection in Texas to be registered?

I know the TXDOT code says former military vehicles don't need an inspection, but I don't like the restrictions that the Former Military Vehicle status has.

A vehicle, including a trailer, regardless of the vehicle’s size, weight, or year of manufacture, that was
manufactured for use in any country’s military forces and is restored and maintained to accurately represent
its military design and markings. The vehicles may be used only for parades, club activities, exhibitions, and
other functions of public interest and will not be used for regular transportation.

Or do I stil fall under former military vehicle even with out being registered as one?

I want to drive it when ever I want. Should I register it as a "classic" instead?

The reason I am concerned is because in Texas you have 20 days to transfer a title over and register the vehicle.

But to register it you have to pass an inspection.

Since the wipers don't work, and the vehicle has no blinkers I have feeling the guys at the inspection station here would not pass it. And I don't think on my budget I could add blinkers and get the wiper motors fixed in that amount of time.

Any of you guys ever register it as a FMV and drive it when ever you want?

[wesk]

Actually you simply operate the wipers with your hand using the hand operation levers.

You can purchase a set of trailer tail lights and be in business for less than $40.

I believe Texas is like most states and only requires the second tail light, turn signals and such on vehicles that were shipped from the factory with them before about 1960.

[whydahdvr]

I don't know about other states but here in MA when I go to get my M38 inspected they go off of what the vehicle originally had and use that as the criteria for passing inspection. So, hand operated wipers and the existing tail lights without turn signals are not an issue. But, those are good things to have anyway.

[shotgun]

Get a Antigue tag for $50 for five years. you can buy a old tag the year of your jeep, it must be in good condition. No inspection required in Texas for cars 25years old. check with the local DMV. I have been doing it for years.

[TomM]

Do they have a special plate for MV's in Texas? Similar wording is common for antique vehicle plates.

Tom

[shotgun]

Yes, you can get a Antigue tag. I run they on all my old cars.

[Jim]

Arkansas doesn't have a Military Vehicle plate, but
the Antique one is cheap and doesn't require an
inspection, just a pledge to keep it original (I keep
a copy in the map box in case of Ossifer Fife) but
you have to have another regular licensed vehicle
for transportation, since there had been some abuse
of the Antique license being used for business.

Jim in Darkest Arkansas