Texas Car Registration Made Easy: Fees, Documents & Deadlines Explained
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If you live in and plan to own and operate a vehicle in the Lone Star State, then Texas car registration is essential. Registration is not only about proof of ownership; it's also about tax collection, insurance verification, and — most importantly — legal compliance.
This guide covers the registration process, discussing legal requirements, fees, and renewals. It teaches you everything you need to know to register your vehicle today.
Who Needs To Register a Vehicle in Texas?
Usually, anyone who owns and operates a vehicle in the state must obtain a Texas car registration from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The vehicle registration requirement also pertains to out-of-state residents who own vehicles garaged in and primarily operated on Texas roads.
There are some exceptions to the registration rule. For example, a vehicle mainly used off-road, such as a piece of farm equipment, doesn't require a license plate. If you have questions about the registration requirements for a specific vehicle, contact your local Texas DMV.
Required Documents for Texas Car Registration
To register your vehicle in Texas, you'll need several documents. The document list includes:
- Proof of ownership: You need a properly signed and completed title. You may also need a lender's information if financing the vehicle.
- Registration application: Form 130-U is the Application for a Texas Title and/or Registration. If necessary, a DMV representative can help you complete it.
- Proof of insurance: You must obtain minimum liability Texas car insurance before receiving a car registration in Texas. Evidence of the policy includes an insurance card or policy documents.
- Emissions test results: If you live in one of several counties, your vehicle must pass an emissions test before you can be granted a vehicle identification number or tag.
Beyond the above documents, vehicle owners must provide proof of identity with a current driver's license or identification card.
Registration Fees and Payment Methods
A Texas car registration includes several fees, including a base fee for your vehicle type and a $1 maintenance and operations fee for the Insurance Verification Project (TexasSure). For example, the cost for non-commercial vehicles, such as cars and light trucks, is $50.75 plus the $1 fee for TexasSure, bringing it to $51.75.
Depending on your location and vehicle type, you may also have to pay a local fee ranging from $0 to $31.50. You can pay all required fees using cash, check, money order, credit card, or debit card.
Before moving on from fees, it's important to note that if motor vehicle records show any outstanding penalties or fines, you'll likely need to pay them to register your car. You may also need to pay a reinstatement fee if your license was suspended.
How To Register a Car in Texas: Step-By-Step Process
The process for car registration in Texas is relatively straightforward. The county tax office handles vehicle registrations and other vehicle-related issues, such as title transfers. So, the first thing you need to do is find your local Tax Assessor-Collector office.
Then, follow these steps:
- Obtain a vehicle emissions test (if applicable).
- Gather necessary documents (application for a Texas title, proof of insurance, etc.).
- Submit documents in person at the proper tax office.
- Pay any applicable fees.
Once you complete these steps, you'll receive a vehicle registration certificate and temporary plates. Your permanent plates should arrive in the mail within two weeks.
Transferring an Out-of-State Registration
If you are new to Texas car registration, you may need to complete a safety and emissions inspection for the vehicle — it all depends on your county. Once you have proof of inspection, the documents required and the process for transferring an out-of-state registration are similar to those for a routine registration.
Visit your local county tax office with the proper documents, including:
- Vehicle inspection report (if applicable)
- Proof of insurance
- Original vehicle titles and proof of ownership
- An application for a Texas title transfer
Finally, be prepared to pay several fees. These include a registration fee, title application fee, state portion of the vehicle inspection fee, local county fee, applicable sales tax, insurance verification fee, and processing fee.
Texas Car Registration Renewal: Deadlines and Late Fees
Your Texas car registration is good for one year. You can find the vehicle registration expiration date printed on the registration sticker. The state DMV usually sends a registration renewal notice a few weeks before the expiration. That said, you're still responsible for the renewal whether or not you receive the notice.
The vehicle registration renewal deadline is the last day of the month shown on your sticker. For example, if your sticker says the expiration is July, you have until July 31 to renew without risking penalties.
You may drive your vehicle for up to five working days without penalty after your registration expires. After the five-day grace period, you may receive a citation of up to $200.
Emissions Testing and Vehicle Inspection Requirements
As of January 1, 2025, Texas no longer requires yearly vehicle safety inspections for non-commercial vehicles. That said, a vehicle inspection report is still necessary for out-of-state transfers or purchases.
Also, some counties still require emissions testing, which includes a visual inspection and an exhaust system check.
Get the Right Car Insurance for Your Registered Vehicle
Texas car registration is straightforward. As long as you have all the required documents in order, all you need to do is visit your local county tax office. Also, remember that insurance is essential to the registration process. Use the EverQuote comparison quote tool to compare several insurance quotes side-by-side and find the one that fits your budget and state requirements.