Before listing the vehicle
- Locate the original title and confirm the owner names.
- Resolve recorded liens and obtain an original release when needed.
- Gather maintenance records and disclose known material problems honestly.
- Decide which payment methods you will accept and how funds will be verified.
- Remove personal data from infotainment, toll, garage, and connected-car systems.
At the sale
- Verify the buyer's identity and record contact information.
- Confirm cleared payment before releasing the title and vehicle.
- Complete the title assignment with the sale date and odometer reading when required.
- Sign Form 130-U and clearly report the actual sales price.
- Give the buyer required lien and supporting documents.
- Create a signed bill of sale and keep copies of everything.
Protect yourself after the sale
File the TxDMV Vehicle Transfer Notification within 30 days. The notification does not transfer ownership, but it updates the record to show the vehicle was sold and can protect you from certain later parking and toll claims. Keep the confirmation with your sale records.
Plates, sticker, toll tags, and insurance
Texas sellers may remove their plates. Retain eligible plates for a future transfer or deface them before disposal. Remove toll tags and delete the vehicle from toll accounts. Coordinate insurance cancellation only after the transaction is complete and the buyer has taken possession.
Records to keep
- Buyer name, address, phone, and identification details.
- VIN, plate number, mileage, price, sale date, and exact transfer time.
- Signed title, Form 130-U, bill of sale, and lien release copies.
- Proof and method of payment.
- Vehicle Transfer Notification confirmation.
- Messages and written disclosures about condition.
Frequently asked questions
Should I go to the tax office with the buyer?
TxDMV recommends accompanying the buyer when possible so you can confirm the title application is filed.
What is a Vehicle Transfer Notification?
It tells TxDMV that the vehicle was sold. Filing within 30 days helps protect the seller from qualifying parking-ticket and toll liability after the sale.
Can I keep my Texas license plates?
Yes. A seller may remove and retain eligible plates for later transfer, transfer them to another qualifying vehicle, or deface and dispose of them.
When should I cancel insurance?
Do not cancel coverage until payment, possession, keys, title documents, and responsibility have actually transferred. Coordinate the exact timing with your insurer.