Texas vehicle transaction center
Buying and Selling Vehicles in Texas
Choose the guide that matches your side of the transaction, or use the private-party guide for the full buyer-and-seller process.
Buying a Car in Texas
Verify the VIN, title, seller, liens, taxes, inspection status, insurance, and transfer documents before paying.
Open guide →Selling a Car in Texas
Assign the title correctly, verify payment, manage plates and insurance, keep records, and file the Vehicle Transfer Notification.
Open guide →Texas Private Party Vehicle Sales
Follow the complete buyer-and-seller transaction sequence, including Form 130-U, taxes, payment, title filing, and transit permits.
Open guide →Documents used in many Texas private sales
- Properly assigned original Texas title.
- Application for Texas Title and/or Registration, Form 130-U.
- Original lien release when a paid lien remains recorded.
- Bill of sale and payment record.
- Vehicle Transfer Notification filed by the seller.
- Proof of liability insurance for registration and lawful operation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the safest way to complete a Texas private vehicle sale?
When possible, buyer and seller should meet at the county tax assessor-collector office so title problems can be identified before the transaction is completed and the seller can confirm that the buyer filed the title application.
How long does the buyer have to apply for title?
The buyer generally has 30 calendar days from the date of sale to apply for title and avoid delinquent-transfer penalties.
What should the seller file after the sale?
The seller should file the TxDMV Vehicle Transfer Notification within 30 days and retain the confirmation with the transaction records.