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Texas

Updated

Transferring the title of a vehicle after selling it in Texas is an important step to ensure the car is legally registered to the new owner and that you, as the seller, are no longer responsible for the vehicle. Below is a step-by-step guide explaining what is needed to transfer the title after selling a car in Texas.

What You Need to Transfer the Title in Texas

Before you complete the title transfer, make sure you have the following documents and information:

  1. Vehicle Title (Certificate of Title):

    • The original title document in your name (not a copy). If the title is lost or damaged, you will need to request a duplicate title from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

  2. Bill of Sale (Optional but Recommended):

    • While not required by the Texas DMV, a bill of sale is a good practice for both the seller and buyer. It should include:
      • Vehicle information: Make, model, year, and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
      • Sale details: Date of sale, purchase price, and mileage.
      • Buyer’s and seller’s names and addresses.
      • Signatures of both parties.

  3. Odometer Disclosure:

    • If the vehicle is less than 10 years old, federal law requires you to provide an odometer disclosure statement to confirm the vehicle’s mileage at the time of sale. This is typically part of the title document.

  4. Proof of Insurance (for Buyer):

    • The buyer will need to show proof of insurance before they can register the vehicle in their name. Ensure that the buyer is prepared with this.

  5. Lien Release (If Applicable):

    • If you still owe money on the vehicle or have a lien, the lienholder must provide a lien release. This document verifies that the debt has been paid off and the lien is cleared before the title can be transferred to the new owner.

  6. Vehicle Inspection:

    • Some vehicles may require a valid inspection certificate if it is more than 2 years old. The vehicle must pass the required safety and emissions inspection before the title transfer can be processed.

Steps to Transfer the Title After Selling the Vehicle in Texas

1. Complete the Title Transfer Section

  • On the back of the title, you will find the Title Transfer section. As the seller, you must:
    • Sign your name as the seller.
    • Print the buyer’s name and address.
    • Enter the date of sale and the sale price.
    • Complete the odometer disclosure statement (if applicable).

2. Provide the Buyer with the Title and Documents

  • Give the buyer the signed title and any other required documents, such as the bill of sale and lien release (if applicable). You should also provide the buyer with the vehicle inspection certificate (if required).

3. Submit the Title Transfer to the Texas DMV

  • In Texas, you are not required to submit the title transfer to the DMV directly, but it is important to file a Notice of Sale with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). This will officially notify the DMV that you are no longer the owner of the vehicle.
    • You can submit the Notice of Sale online through the TxDMV website, or mail the Form to the DMV.

4. Buyer Registers the Vehicle

  • The buyer must take the signed title, proof of insurance, and any required documents (inspection certificate, lien release, etc.) to their local county tax assessor-collector’s office to register the vehicle in their name.
    • The buyer will also need to pay the appropriate fees and taxes for registration and title transfer.

5. Keep Copies for Your Records

  • After the sale, keep a copy of the bill of sale, the signed title, and any other relevant documents for your records. This can help protect you in case any issues arise after the sale.

Conclusion

Transferring the title after selling a car in Texas is a straightforward process when all the necessary steps are followed. Make sure you complete the title transfer section, submit the Notice of Sale to the TxDMV, and provide the buyer with the required documents. By doing so, you can ensure that the sale is legally completed, and you are no longer responsible for the vehicle. If you need assistance or have questions about the process, visit the Texas DMV website or contact their customer support for guidance.