To register your car in Texas, you need to complete several steps and bring specific documents to your local county tax assessor-collector office. Here is what you need:
- Proof of vehicle ownership: This can be the vehicle title or the out-of-state registration if applicable. If there is a lienholder, you must provide their full details
- Proof of Texas vehicle insurance: Your insurance must meet Texas minimum liability coverage requirements: $30,000 per injured person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage
- Vehicle inspection report: If you live in one of the 17 Texas counties requiring emissions testing (such as Dallas, Harris, Travis, etc.), you must have a passing emissions inspection and bring the Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR)
- Completed Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form 130-U): This form is required for first-time registration in Texas and can be obtained online or at the tax office
- Valid government-issued photo ID: Acceptable IDs include a Texas driver's license, state ID, U.S. or foreign passport, military ID, or other approved identification
- Odometer disclosure statement and bill of sale: Required for vehicles 2011 model year or newer and when applicable, especially for private sales
- Payment for registration fees: Fees vary by vehicle type and county; check with your local tax office for exact amounts
If you are new to Texas and bringing an out-of-state vehicle, you must register your car within 30 days of establishing residency
. In summary, to register your car in Texas, gather your proof of ownership, proof of insurance, vehicle inspection report (if required), your ID, the completed registration form (130-U), and payment, then visit your county tax office to submit these documents and receive your Texas license plates and registration sticker
