Title Transfers

Need to transfer your auto title?

Auto title transfers in Texas refer to the legal process of transferring ownership of a motor vehicle from one person or entity to another. This transfer is documented by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) through a title certificate, which is an essential document proving ownership. Title transfers are required in various situations, including when buying or selling a vehicle, inheriting a vehicle, or gifting a vehicle. Here’s what you need to know about auto title transfers in Texas:

1. Buying or Selling a Vehicle: When you buy a used vehicle in Texas, the seller should provide you with a signed title certificate that includes the odometer reading and a sales price disclosure, if applicable. As the buyer, you must then complete the title transfer process within 30 days of the sale date. To do this, you will typically need to visit a local county tax office and submit the required paperwork, including the signed title and the Application for Texas Title (Form 130-U). You will also need to pay the title transfer fee and any applicable taxes.

2. Inheriting a Vehicle: If you inherit a vehicle in Texas, you may need to transfer the title into your name. The process for this can vary depending on whether or not the deceased person had a will, among other factors. Generally, you will need to complete the Affidavit of Heirship for a Motor Vehicle (Form VTR-262), a certified copy of the death certificate, and other required documents. You will also need to visit a county tax office and pay the necessary fees.

3. Gifting a Vehicle: If someone gives you a vehicle as a gift, you will also need to transfer the title into your name. This typically involves completing the Gift Tax Form 14-317 and presenting it, along with other required documents, at a county tax office. There may be title transfer fees and taxes associated with this process.

4. Out-of-State Transfers: If you’re moving to Texas from another state and bringing your vehicle with you, you will need to transfer the out-of-state title to a Texas title. This process involves submitting the out-of-state title, Form 130-U, and other required documents at a county tax office. You may also need to provide proof of a vehicle inspection if your vehicle is from out of state.

5. Fees and Taxes: Title transfer fees and taxes vary depending on factors such as the vehicle’s value, your county of residence, and the type of transfer (e.g., sale, gift). It’s important to check with your local county tax office or the TxDMV website for the most up-to-date information on fees and taxes.

6. Lienholder Information: If there is a lien on the vehicle (i.e., it’s financed), the lienholder’s information should be recorded on the title. The lienholder retains the title until the vehicle is paid off. Once the vehicle is paid off, the lienholder releases the lien, and the title can be transferred to the owner’s name.

It’s essential to follow the specific requirements and procedures outlined by the TxDMV and your local county tax office when conducting an auto title transfer in Texas. Failure to properly transfer the title can result in legal complications and difficulties when selling or registering the vehicle in the future.

Need more information? Feel free to email us at: TITLES@GETTIA.COM