How do I transfer a car title in Texas?

Reviewed 2026-09-29 · Source: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles

Ava's answer

For a private-party purchase, the buyer takes the signed title and Form 130-U to the county tax office to transfer ownership.

Starting fee$28 or $33 +

WhereOnline or in person

Steps4 steps

Get the signed original title: Have the seller complete the assignment; check whether lien release and odometer disclosure apply.
Complete Form 130-U: Use the Texas Application for Title and/or Registration and review the sales price and signatures.
Apply at the county tax office: Submit the title, form and supporting documents within 30 days of the sale; arrange insurance if also registering.
Pay applicable charges: The office determines your county title fee, motor vehicle sales tax and any registration or local charges.

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Fees

Title applicationDepends on county; confirm with your county tax office.	$28 or $33
Private-party motor vehicle sales taxGenerally based on purchase price or standard presumptive value, whichever is higher; exemptions may apply.	6.25%

Watch

Transferring a vehicle title in TexasThe Texas DMV's own walkthrough of what a title transfer involves and what to bring.From Texas DMV · reviewed 2026-10-01

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Source

Buying or Selling a Vehicle · Texas Department of Motor Vehicles · reviewed 2026-09-29

Limitations: Private-party purchase only. County title fees, sales tax, penalties, inspections and registration charges vary; confirm totals with your county tax office. Never enter a VIN or plate number here.

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