This is not any sort of defensive comment toward quicker sticker, but:
If they pass a vehicle that has defects, they get fined and can possibly lose their license. I've gone there for years and have had blades recommended once. The blade had a 1/4" year at the end. I told the guy I'd go replace them as soon as I left and he let it go.
The old "headlights need ajustment" wasn't a scam. When I ran a Monkey Wards Auto Center in Houston, at that time we were required to check the adjustment with a machine. If the lights were out of spec, either they got adjusted or the car failed. Sure, people got pissed off, but when they got to see the specs on the machine, they calmed down.
If you ever get failed, ask to see the part. If you think it should pass, discuss it with the inspector. If you still fail, and disagree, call the DPS field inspector. They are (or used to be) very quick to respond and resolve the issue.