Transferring a car title in Texas requires several key documents, including the original title signed by the seller, a completed Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form 130-U), and proof of insurance. The buyer must also provide a valid government-issued ID and pay the necessary title transfer fee and any applicable taxes. If the vehicle was gifted, you may need to submit a notarized Gift Affidavit along with other supporting documents.
What Documents Are Needed to Transfer a Car Title in Texas?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Certified Title Application (Form 130-U) | The Certified Title Application (Form 130-U) is essential for transferring a car title in Texas, serving as the official document that initiates the title change process with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. This form must be accurately completed and submitted along with proof of vehicle ownership, valid identification, and any applicable fees to ensure a smooth and legal title transfer. |
| 2 | Odometer Disclosure Statement | Texas requires an Odometer Disclosure Statement for vehicle title transfers when the car is less than 10 years old to verify the accurate mileage at the time of sale. This document, mandated by federal and state law, protects buyers and sellers from odometer fraud and must be completed by both parties during the title transfer process. |
| 3 | Release of Lien Letter | A Release of Lien Letter is essential for transferring a car title in Texas as it proves the lien holder has cleared all financial claims on the vehicle. This document must be submitted along with the title and other required forms to ensure a smooth and legal title transfer process. |
| 4 | Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) | A Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) is required for transferring a car title in Texas to verify that the vehicle meets safety and emissions standards. This report must be issued by a certified Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) inspection station within 90 days prior to the title transfer. |
| 5 | Transfer Notification Receipt | The Transfer Notification Receipt is a vital document in the Texas car title transfer process, serving as proof that the seller informed the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) about the ownership transfer. This receipt helps protect the seller from future liability and must be submitted online or via mail within 30 days of the vehicle sale. |
| 6 | Affidavit of Heirship for a Motor Vehicle | The Affidavit of Heirship for a Motor Vehicle is required in Texas when transferring a car title if the vehicle owner passed away without a will and the estate is not being probated. This document, signed by disinterested parties, verifies the rightful heir to the vehicle, enabling the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to process the title transfer. |
| 7 | Texas Sale and Use Tax Computation Form | The Texas Sale and Use Tax Computation Form (Form 14-317) is required when transferring a car title to calculate and report the applicable sales tax based on the vehicle's sale price or standard presumptive value. This form must be submitted to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles along with the vehicle title, application for title, and proof of insurance to complete the transfer process. |
| 8 | Power of Attorney to Transfer Motor Vehicle (Form VTR-271) | The Power of Attorney to Transfer Motor Vehicle (Form VTR-271) grants a designated person the legal authority to handle the car title transfer on behalf of the owner in Texas. This document is essential when the owner cannot be present to sign the title transfer paperwork, ensuring a smooth and lawful transaction at the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. |
| 9 | Out-of-State Title Verification | Transferring a car title in Texas with an out-of-state title requires the original out-of-state title along with a completed Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form 130-U). The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles also mandates submitting proof of vehicle inspection, proof of insurance, and a valid government-issued ID to verify ownership and comply with Texas vehicle registration regulations. |
| 10 | eTitle Transfer Confirmation | The eTitle Transfer Confirmation in Texas requires the electronic submission of the vehicle title transfer through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) platform, including proof of vehicle ownership and the buyer's identification. Essential documents include the original title signed by the seller, a completed Form 130-U (Application for Texas Title), and payment of applicable transfer fees to finalize the electronic title transfer process. |
Introduction to Car Title Transfer in Texas
Transferring a car title in Texas requires specific documents to ensure the process is legal and smooth. Understanding these requirements helps avoid delays and complications.
- Original Title Certificate - This document proves ownership and must be signed by the seller.
- Application for Texas Title - Required to officially record the new owner with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.
- Proof of Insurance - Verifies the vehicle meets Texas's mandatory liability insurance requirements.
Your preparation with the correct documents will streamline the car title transfer process in Texas.
Essential Documents for Texas Title Transfer
Transferring a car title in Texas requires specific documents to ensure a smooth process. Essential documents include the original title certificate, signed by the seller, to prove ownership transfer.
A valid Texas Driver License or ID of the buyer is necessary for identification purposes. The Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form 130-U) must be completed and submitted to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.
Texas DMV Title Transfer Policies
Transferring a car title in Texas requires specific documents to comply with Texas DMV title transfer policies. The essential paperwork includes the signed title certificate, a completed Application for Texas Title, and a valid government-issued ID.
You must also provide a valid Vehicle Inspection Report and proof of insurance. If applicable, submit a bill of sale and payment for the required title transfer fees to complete the process.
Step-by-Step Title Transfer Procedures
Transferring a car title in Texas requires specific documents to ensure a smooth process. You must gather the necessary paperwork before visiting the local county tax office.
The primary documents include the original title signed by the seller, a completed Application for Texas Title (Form 130-U), and a valid government-issued ID. Proof of vehicle inspection and payment of title transfer fees are also mandatory. If applicable, submit a vehicle registration receipt and a lien release letter to complete the transfer successfully.
Identification and Proof of Ownership Requirements
| Document | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Valid Government-Issued Photo ID | Acceptable forms include a Texas driver's license, Texas ID card, U.S. passport, or military ID. | Used to verify the identity of the person transferring or receiving the title. |
| Original Vehicle Title | The official certificate of title that shows legal ownership of the vehicle. | Proof of ownership; must be signed by the seller and buyer to complete the transfer. |
| Application for Texas Title (Form 130-U) | A form provided by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to complete the title transfer. | Documents the transfer request and provides necessary vehicle and owner information. |
| Proof of Vehicle Inspection | A current Vehicle Safety Inspection Report issued by an authorized Texas inspection station. | Confirms the vehicle meets state safety requirements. |
| Proof of Insurance | Valid Texas auto insurance policy information. | Evidence of insurance coverage on the vehicle being transferred. |
Form 130-U: Application for Texas Title
Form 130-U: Application for Texas Title is a required document for transferring a car title in Texas. This form collects essential information about the vehicle, the buyer, and the seller to process the transfer legally. Submit a completed Form 130-U along with the current title and proof of insurance to complete the title transfer.
Vehicle Inspection and Insurance Documentation
Transferring a car title in Texas requires specific documents, including proof of vehicle inspection and valid insurance. These documents ensure the vehicle meets safety standards and is legally insured for operation.
- Vehicle Inspection Report - Demonstrates the car has passed the Texas Department of Public Safety safety inspection within the last 90 days.
- Proof of Insurance - Shows current liability insurance coverage complying with Texas state minimum requirements.
- Inspection Sticker - Must be displayed on the vehicle to confirm successful completion of the state-mandated inspection.
Power of Attorney and Lien Release Policies
To transfer a car title in Texas, you must provide a signed title, proof of insurance, and a completed Application for Texas Title and/or Registration. If someone else is handling the transfer on Your behalf, a valid Power of Attorney document is required to authorize the transaction legally. In cases where the vehicle has an outstanding loan, a lien release statement from the lender must be submitted to clear the title.
Fees and Payment Methods for Title Transfer
What fees are required to transfer a car title in Texas? The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles requires a title transfer fee, which typically ranges from $33 to $54 depending on the county. Other possible fees include vehicle inspection and local county charges.
What payment methods are accepted for title transfer fees in Texas? Payment can usually be made via cash, check, money order, or credit/debit card at the county tax office. Online title transfer services may also accept electronic payments through their portals.
What Documents Are Needed to Transfer a Car Title in Texas? Infographic
