In 2026, the average annual salary for a Department of Transportation (DOT) Inspector in Texas is approximately $32,000 to $42,000 for entry-level roles, though experienced inspectors in major cities can earn significantly more. According to recent 2026 labor data, the median wage in the state is around $16.00 to $20.00 per hour. However, pay varies greatly by location; for example, inspectors in Midland and Odessa—hubs for the oil and gas industry—often command higher salaries, sometimes reaching $48,000 to $53,000 annually due to the high volume of heavy-duty commercial vehicle inspections required in those regions. In urban centers like Dallas, Austin, and Houston, salaries are also slightly above the state average, typically hovering around $36,000. It is important to distinguish between "Commercial Vehicle Enforcement" officers (who are often state troopers with higher pay scales) and civilian "DOT Inspectors" who focus on mechanical and compliance audits. Many of these roles offer excellent state benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans, which add significant "total compensation" value beyond the base hourly wage.