Both parties are required to sign. The DMV recommends that both parties jointly visit a County Tax Office when the seller is signing over the vehicle’s title.^[1]

Any vehicle purchased by a Texas resident that will be driven on Texas roads must be registered. Purchases made at a dealership generally include the dealer submitting the necessary paperwork on a buyer’s behalf.

For purchases of vehicles done between private parties, the buyer has thirty (30) days to shift the title to his or her name and register the vehicle, tasks which are generally handled jointly. Registration of most vehicles lasts a year and, once registered, can be renewed online.

Where to Register

Application and documentation to register a vehicle may be submitted to the buyer’s nearest county tax office.

Required Documents

• A completed Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form 130-U)
• A bill of sale with an odometer disclosure
• Detailed information about the vehicle including the Vehicle Identification Numer
• Proof of auto insurance meeting the state’s minimum requirements
  • $30,000 for injuries per person
  • $60,000 for injuries per accident
  • $25,000 for property damage
• If more than one lien exists for the vehicle, an Additional Liens Statement
• If an agent is acting on the buyer’s behalf, a Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney
• If the vehicle was a gift, an Affidavit of Motor Vehicle Gift Transfer
• Driver’s license or state ID
• All registrations fee, as listed in this fee schedule