Buying or selling a vehicle privately in Texas involves a title transfer, and it has a deadline attached.
What the buyer needs
- The title, properly signed over by the seller.
- A completed application for title and registration.
- Proof of Texas insurance in the buyer's name.
- Valid identification.
- Proof of inspection, as applicable.
- Payment of the applicable tax and fees.
What the seller should do
- Sign the title exactly as the name appears on it.
- Record the odometer reading accurately.
- Keep a copy of everything.
- File a vehicle transfer notification, which is what protects you from liability for what happens to the vehicle afterward. This step is skipped constantly and it is the one that protects the seller.
What goes wrong
- The title is signed in the wrong place, or by someone whose name is not on it.
- There is a lien on the title that was never released.
- The title is lost.
- The odometer disclosure is missing or wrong.
- The buyer waits past the deadline and a penalty applies.
- The name on the identification does not match the title.
Do not accept an open title — one signed by the seller with the buyer section left blank. It creates real problems for both sides and it is worth insisting on doing it properly.
We handle title work
Title transfers and registration are part of our general services. Requirements change, so confirm current rules with the county tax office for your situation. Call (432) 257-7547 or come by 700 C Andrews Hwy in Midland. We work in English and Spanish.
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