(a) This section applies only to a vehicle:
(1) the most recent certificate of title for which or registration of which was issued in a county without a motor vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance program; and
(2) the ownership of which has changed and which has been the subject of a retail sale as defined by § 2301.002, Occupations Code.
(b) Notwithstanding Subsection (a), this section does not apply to a vehicle that is a 1996 or newer model that has less than 50,000 miles.

(c) A vehicle subject to this section is not eligible for a title receipt under § 501.024, a certificate of title under § 501.027, or registration under Chapter 502 in a county with a motor vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance program unless proof is presented with the application for certificate of title or registration, as appropriate, that the vehicle, not earlier than the 90th day before the date on which the new owner’s application for certificate of title or registration is filed with the county clerk or county assessor-collector, as appropriate, has passed an approved vehicle emissions test in the county in which it is to be titled or registered.
(d) The proof required by Subsection (c) may be in the form of a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) or other proof of program compliance as authorized by the department.