How to Transfer a Car Title in Texas

Transferring a car title in Texas is a simple process.

If you buy or sell a car in Texas, you will need to transfer the car title to change the name listed on the car title from the original owner to that of the new owner. Transferring a car title in Texas is a simple process, but it does require a visit to the local county tax office. If you are giving the car to a family member, the process to transfer the car title in Texas is still the same.

Things You'll Need

• Vehicle title
• Form 130-U
• Registration receipt
• Title application fee

Instructions

1. Find your registration receipt or get a copy from your local county tax office (see Resources).

2. Record the odometer reading and the vehicle identification number (VIN).

3. Fill out Form 130-U, a title application that you can get at a local county tax office or on the Texas Department of Transportation website (see Resources). Necessary information includes the odometer reading, VIN, the name and address of the buyer and seller and the sales price. Both parties must sign the form.

4. Take the completed form 130-U, the registration receipt and the title to the local county tax office; both parties must go to the office. The buyer must have proof of insurance.

5. Pay the title fee (see Resources).

Tips & Warnings

• If you are giving the car to someone, put $0.00 for the sales price and select "Gift Tax $10.00" on the title application form.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Texas Dept. of Transportation: County Tax Offices
• Texas Dept. of Transportation: Title Your Vehicle