Out-of-State Car Title Transfer to Texas
Just moved to Texas? Here is exactly what you need to transfer your out-of-state vehicle title — deadline, documents, fees, and any inspections required.
New Texas residents have 90 days after establishing residency to register their vehicle and obtain a Texas title.
Transfer Quick Facts
Documents Required
- 1Out-of-state title or out-of-state registration if title is held by lienholder
- 2Proof of Texas insurance
- 3Completed Texas title application (Form 130-U)
- 4Valid Texas vehicle inspection report
- 5Payment for title, registration, and use tax
- 6Odometer disclosure statement (for vehicles under 10 years old)
Texas collects 6.25% motor vehicle use tax at time of registration. Credit is available if sales tax was paid to another state at or above 6.25%. For vehicles brought from low-tax states, the difference is collected.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to transfer an out-of-state title to Texas?
90 days. New Texas residents have 90 days after establishing residency to register their vehicle and obtain a Texas title.
What is the title fee to register an out-of-state vehicle in Texas?
$28–$33. Texas title fee is $28 without a lien, $33 with a lien. Paid to the county tax assessor-collector.
Does Texas require an inspection for out-of-state vehicle registration?
Yes. Texas requires a vehicle safety inspection before registration. For new residents, you must pass the Texas inspection within 90 days of establishing residency.
Do I owe sales or use tax when registering my out-of-state vehicle in Texas?
Yes. Texas charges 6.25% use tax (motor vehicle use tax) on the value of the vehicle at time of registration. If you paid sales tax in another state, you may receive credit for taxes paid — but only if the other state's tax rate was 6.25% or higher.
What documents do I need to transfer my title to Texas?
Required documents include: Out-of-state title or out-of-state registration if title is held by lienholder, Proof of Texas insurance, Completed Texas title application (Form 130-U), Valid Texas vehicle inspection report, Payment for title, registration, and use tax, Odometer disclosure statement (for vehicles under 10 years old).
Can I drive my out-of-state vehicle while waiting to register it in Texas?
Most states allow a grace period before requiring registration. 90 days is the deadline after establishing residency in Texas. You can typically drive on your current out-of-state registration during this window, but you should obtain Texas insurance immediately upon moving.