What you need to do to change a car title in Texas

Changing a car title in Texas means transferring ownership from one name to another, updating the title document itself, or correcting information on an existing title. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles all title transfers and corrections. The process differs depending on whether you're buying or selling a vehicle, inheriting one, getting divorced, or fixing an error on the current title.

Most title changes require you to submit documents to the DMV in person, by mail, or through an authorized county tax assessor-collector's office. The specific forms, fees, and timeline depend on what kind of change you're making. Texas does not allow online title transfers for most situations, though you can check your process status online after you submit.

Key Takeaways

  • Title transfers in Texas are handled by the DMV or your county tax assessor-collector's office, not by a private company or online portal.
  • You will need the current title document, a completed process for Texas Title form (Form 130-U), and proof of identity to make most changes.
  • Fees vary by transaction type but typically range from $28 to $90, and processing takes two to four weeks by mail or one to three days in person.
  • If you're buying a vehicle, the seller must sign the title in the correct location, and you must submit it within 30 days of purchase to avoid penalties.
  • Correcting errors on a title (misspelled name, wrong VIN) requires a separate form and may need supporting documents like a birth certificate or court order.

Transferring a title when you buy or sell a vehicle

If you are buying a car in Texas, the seller must sign the title in the assignment section on the back. The seller should sign in front of a notary public or an authorized DMV representative — Texas requires a notarized signature for most title transfers. After the seller signs, you have 30 days to submit the title and your paperwork to the DMV or tax assessor-collector's office. If you miss this important date, you may face a penalty fee and your registration will be invalid.

To complete the transfer on your end, you will need to submit the signed title, a completed process for Texas Title (Form 130-U), proof of identity (driver's license or passport), and proof of Texas residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days). If the vehicle is financed, your lender's name and address must appear on the title. The fee for a title transfer is $28 for a standard passenger vehicle, though specialty vehicles may cost more.

You can submit these documents in person at any county tax assessor-collector's office or mail them to the DMV. In-person processing usually takes one to three days; by mail, expect two to four weeks. If you mail your documents, send them to the address listed on Form 130-U for your county.

Correcting errors or updating information on an existing title

If your title has a misspelled name, wrong vehicle identification number (VIN), incorrect odometer reading, or other factual error, you can request a correction without transferring ownership. You will need to submit Form 130-U along with supporting documents that prove the correct information. For a name change, bring a birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. For a VIN error, you may need a vehicle inspection report or the manufacturer's certificate of origin.

The fee for a title correction is $28. Processing takes the same timeframe as a transfer — one to three days in person, two to four weeks by mail. If the error was made by the DMV, you may not be charged a fee; contact your local tax assessor-collector's office to confirm.

Transferring a title after inheritance or death

If you inherit a vehicle, the process depends on whether the deceased person's estate went through probate. If probate was completed, you will need a certified copy of the probate order or a letter of testamentary from the court. If the estate was small enough to skip probate under Texas law, you may be able to use an Affidavit of Heirship or a small estate affidavit instead.

Submit the title, Form 130-U, the probate order or affidavit, your proof of identity, and proof of residency to the tax assessor-collector's office. The fee is $28. Some counties may require additional documentation, so call ahead to confirm what your county needs. Processing takes one to three days in person or two to four weeks by mail.

Updating a title after divorce

If you are awarded a vehicle in a divorce settlement, you will need a certified copy of the divorce decree that names you as the owner. Submit the current title, Form 130-U, the certified divorce decree, your proof of identity, and proof of residency. The fee is $28. If the title is currently in both names and you are keeping the vehicle, the other person must sign the title in the assignment section, or you must provide a court order removing their name.

If your ex-spouse refuses to sign or cooperate, you may need to file a motion with the court to compel the transfer. Contact a family law attorney or your local legal aid office for guidance on this step.

Where to submit your title change documents

You can change a title in Texas at any county tax assessor-collector's office. Find your county's office by visiting the Texas DMV website and searching for your county. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some offer limited Saturday hours. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment.

If you prefer to mail your documents, send them to the address listed on Form 130-U for your county. Include a check or money order for the fee (do not send cash). Keep a copy of everything you send for your records. The DMV will mail your new title to the address you provide on Form 130-U, usually within two to four weeks.

Fees and processing timelines

Title transfer and correction fees in Texas are set by state law and do not vary by county. A standard title transfer costs $28. A title correction costs $28. An inheritance transfer costs $28. A duplicate title (if yours is lost or damaged) costs $11. If you need expedited processing, some tax assessor-collector offices offer rush service for an additional fee, typically $10 to $25, though this is not available everywhere.

Processing times depend on how you submit your documents. In-person submissions at a tax assessor-collector's office are usually processed within one to three business days, and you may receive your new title the same day if the office has it in stock. Mail submissions take two to four weeks from the date the DMV receives your envelope. If you do not hear back within this timeframe, contact your county tax assessor-collector's office to check the status of your process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change a title online in Texas?

No. Texas does not offer online title transfers or corrections. You must submit documents in person at a county tax assessor-collector's office or by mail to the DMV. You can check the status of a title process online through the Texas DMV website if you have a confirmation number from your submission.

What happens if I don't transfer the title within 30 days of buying a vehicle?

You will owe a late fee in addition to the standard $28 transfer fee. The penalty increases the longer you wait. Your vehicle registration will also become invalid, and you cannot legally drive the vehicle. Contact your county tax assessor-collector's office when ready to submit your transfer and pay any penalties owed.

Do I need a notary to sign the title?

Yes, for most title transfers. The seller's signature on the back of the title must be notarized. You can have the title notarized at a bank, title company, or notary public's office. Some county tax assessor-collector offices have notaries on staff and can notarize the signature when you submit your transfer documents.

Can I change a title if the vehicle has a lien on it?

If the vehicle is financed, the lender's name appears on the title as a lienholder. You can transfer the title, but the lender's name will remain on it until the loan is paid off. Once you pay off the loan, the lender will release the lien, and you can request a corrected title showing you as the sole owner. Bring the lender's lien release letter to the tax assessor-collector's office.

What if the previous owner won't sign the title?

If you bought the vehicle but the seller refuses to sign the title, you have a legal dispute. Contact a small claims court or consult an attorney about your options. You cannot legally register or transfer the vehicle without the seller's signature on the title. If the vehicle was purchased at an auction or from a dealer, contact the seller's business directly to resolve the issue.