Texas Title Transfer: A Step-by-Step Guide for Buyers & Sellers
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Texas title transfer is a critical step when you are buying or selling a car in the Lone Star State. When it comes to title transfer in Texas, you need to organize the required documents, have proof of insurance and registration fees, and complete a vehicle title application. This guide will help you manage the entire title transfer and Texas car registration processes, including required documents, common pitfalls, and tips for handling various situations like private sales, gifted or inherited vehicles, and transfers from out-of-state.
Texas Vehicle Title Transfer Requirements
For car title transfer in Texas, you will need the following motor vehicle records:
A signed title that includes the date of sale and a recent odometer reading
A completed and signed Application for Texas Title and/or Registration Form 130-U
Proof of vehicle ownership
Proof of identity, including a government-issued photo ID
Proof of Texas liability car insurance
The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles offers additional details on completing the title application.
Title Transfer for Private Sales in Texas
If you buy or sell a vehicle through a private sale in Texas, you will need to complete a Texas Motor Vehicle Transfer Notification within 30 days. If there is a lien on the title, you must have a lien release letter that indicates you are the sole owner. During private Texas car title transfer, you should also keep track of the purchase price and sales price, the contact information for both the buyer and seller, and mileage. A licensed motor vehicle dealer will handle this for you.
In Texas, sellers have the option of transferring license plates or keeping them. If you opt not to do either, then you must dispose of the license plates.
Transferring a Title for a Gifted or Inherited Vehicle
If your vehicle title transfer is for a vehicle that has been gifted or inherited, there are some special considerations.
For gifted vehicles:
- Both the vehicle donor and recipient must sign the title application and Affidavit of Motor Vehicle Gift Transfer (Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Form.
- You must provide the signed title and Application for Texas Title and/or Registration Form to a county tax office.
For inherited vehicles:
- The executor of the estate can transfer the title to you or you can use the Affidavit of Heirship for a Motor Vehicle form.
- You may have to pay motor vehicle sales tax on the vehicle.
How to Handle Out-of-State Title Transfers in Texas
If you are bringing a car to Texas, you must register it within 30 days, and commercial vehicles must pass a safety inspection. Non-commercial vehicles must also pass a safety inspection in most Texas counties. Here are the 17 counties that require an emissions inspection but not a safety inspection: Brazoria, Collin, Dallas, Denton, El Paso, Ellis, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Johnson, Kaufman, Montgomery, Parker, Rockwall, Tarrant, Travis, and Williamson.
Here are the steps for handling out-of-state title transfer:
- Visit your local county tax office and bring proof of Inspection, proof of liability insurance, and the original title.
- Complete the Application for Texas Title and/or Registration.
- Pay applicable fees and taxes.
Dealing with Lienholders During a Title Transfer
During a Texas DMV title transfer, you must deal with any liens before you can complete the transfer. To do so, you can visit your local county tax office with the original vehicle title, a valid photo id, and a release of lien letter. You will also need a completed Application for Texas Title and/or Registration Form 130-U.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During a Texas Title Transfer
To ensure your Texas title transfer goes as smoothly as possible, do your best to avoid these common mistakes:
Missing signatures: Make sure that your title, applications, and other forms are signed and dated by all required parties.
Incomplete forms: Likewise, do a quick review to ensure that you have completed every field and that nothing is missing or illegible.
Incorrect fees: Fees can change regularly. Review the latest Texas registration fees before you write a check.
The more organized you are, the better. A little preparation can make this process a piece of cake.
What to Do If Your Texas Title Is Lost or Damaged
If you lose your Texas title or it becomes damaged, you can get a certified copy by mail or in person. You will need to complete an Application for a Certified Copy of Title form VTR-34, provide valid photo ID, and pay the associated fees.
To get a new copy by mail:
Send your completed Application for a Certified Copy of Title, a copy of your photo ID, and $2 via check, cashier's check, or money order payable to Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, 1601 Southwest Pkwy., Suite A, Wichita Falls, TX 76302.
To get a new title in person:
Make an appointment with your local Texas DMV service center.
Bring your application, photo ID, and $5.45 by check, cash, or money order at the time of your appointment.
Protect Your Investment with the Right Car Insurance
Texas car insurance is required when transferring titles and driving in the state. You can protect your investment with the right car insurance that meets your needs now and into the future. EverQuote offers free custom car insurance quotes, which give you the chance to compare offers and features side by side. Visit EverQuote today to find affordable car insurance.