How to Get Your Car Title in Texas

Getting your replacement car title in Texas isn't an easy process. That's why we made this guide to help you in the process of getting a new title to your vehicle!

How to Get Your Title in Texas

If you’re a resident of the Lone Star state and can’t find your title, you’ll need to start the process of replacing it.

Although dealing with paperwork is never ideal, the Texas DMV has a streamlined process to help you apply for a duplicate title. Here’s a step by step guide on getting started:

First, you’ll need to fill out an Application for a Certified Copy of Title. Make sure you fill it out completely and read all the instructions before you begin.

Keep in mind that you’ll need original copies of any supplementary documents that go with your applications. This includes release of lien documents or any other court released documents pertaining to your title. Photo copies of these documents are not accepted, and they will reject your application if you send them.

If you’re mailing in your application, there is a $2.00 fee, and a $5.45 fee if you’re applying in person. This is payable via personal check, cashier’s check, or money order.

Once you’ve finished your application, you can either drop it off at your local Texas Department of Motor Vehicles Regional Service Center, or mail it to the following address:

Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
1601-A Southwest Parkway
Wichita Falls, TX 76302

If you follow all these steps, you’ll be on your way to getting a duplicate title to your vehicle!

Note: this information is subject to change and is for informational purposes only. Be sure to check with your local DMV to make sure that all processes are the same, or you can visit the Texas DMV page.

Category	Details
What Is a Car Title?	Legal document proving ownership; includes VIN, owner, lienholder (if any), make/model/year.
When Required	Title transfer must happen within 30 days of purchase or move to Texas.
Key Forms	- Form 130-U: Title application - VTR-130-SOF: Statement of Fact (bonded titles)
Title Transfer Requirements	- Signed original title - Form 130-U - Valid photo ID - Proof of insurance - Vehicle Inspection Report (if required) - Payment of fees & taxes
Fees & Taxes	- Sales tax: 6.25% (of sale price or presumptive value) - Title & registration fees vary by county - Late penalties if not transferred within 30 days
Out-of-State Vehicles	Additional inspection or forms may be required (depends on prior title, location, etc.)
Lost or No Title	- Can apply for duplicate title via TxDMV - If no title is available, go through bonded title process
Bonded Title Requirements	- VIN inspection (if needed) - Statement of Fact - Bond for 1.5× value of vehicle - Must show effort to locate seller
Information on Title	- Owner’s name & address - VIN - Year/make/body style - Odometer (if required) - Lienholder info (if any)
Recent Changes (2025)	- As of July 1, 2025: Dealers must issue metal plates, not paper temp tags (HB 718)