How To Transfer A Car Title In Texas
The short answer
When you buy from a licensed Texas dealer, the dealer files the title application for you. When you buy from a private seller, you file it yourself at your county tax office within 30 days of the sale, or you may owe delinquent transfer penalties.
Buying from a dealer
TxDMV says plainly: "If you buy your vehicle from a dealer, the dealer is required to file the title application on your behalf." The dealer collects the sales tax, title and registration fees at the sale and handles the county paperwork. At Triple J Auto Investment we file it for you, and the papers you sign are shown to you first.
TxDMV asks you to allow at least 20 business days for the title application to be processed.
Buying from a private seller
You have 30 days from the date of sale to title the car in your name. Take these to your county tax office: the old title, signed over to you; Form 130-U (Application for Texas Title and/or Registration), signed, with the sales price shown; proof of liability insurance; and your photo ID.
On a private sale, the state figures the sales tax using the car's standard presumptive value (SPV), not only the price you paid.
In Harris County, title transfers need an appointment with the tax office.
Common mistakes
Taking a title that is not signed by the person named on it. Leaving the sales price blank. Waiting past 30 days. Buying a car with a lien still on the title without a release from the lender.
Questions buyers ask
How long do I have to transfer a title in Texas?
30 days from the date of sale on a private sale. After that you may owe delinquent transfer penalties. A dealer files it for you.
What is Form 130-U?
It is the Application for Texas Title and/or Registration. The buyer and seller sign it, and it shows the sales price.
Do I need insurance to transfer a title in Texas?
Yes. TxDMV requires proof of liability insurance when you title and register a vehicle.