A vehicle title is used by state governments to verify the owner of a vehicle. Whether you are buying or selling a vehicle, or trying to apply for a title loan as a resident of Texas, understanding the title transfer process is essential. Learn how to transfer a car title in Texas today! If you have a qualifying vehicle title in your name, it is possible to apply for a title loan.5
How to Transfer a Car Title in Texas When Buying or Selling a Vehicle
The exact process to transfer your car title in Texas depends on whether you are:
- Buying or Selling at a Dealership
- Buying or Selling With a Private Party
When purchasing or selling a car to a dealership, they are licensed and responsible for processing your title documents. Additionally, after a vehicle is sold at their location, a dealership is legally obligated to handle the registration process as well on your behalf.
In the case of a private party, whether you are buying or selling, you and the other party are responsible for the transaction. Therefore, a little bit more work is involved at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Both the buyer and seller are required to fill out the title and provide the correct VIN, date of the sale, and the contact information for each party. Additionally, providing the sale price and odometer reading is required. Texas does not require the parties to have a notary present at the time of the signing. Once your vehicle title is in the right shape, you can visit your local DMV to complete the process to transfer a car title in Texas.
Regardless of whether you are working with a private party or a dealership, you must have the title signed and transferred to the buyer’s name within 30 days of the sale.
Steps to Transfer a Car Title in Texas
Before you can learn how to transfer a car title in Texas, understand that you will not be able to if any liens are present on the title. If you have recently paid off your vehicle and are trying to transfer it to a new owner, you will need a document called an original release of lien letter to complete this process.
With your signed vehicle title in hand, your next step is to complete a vehicle title transfer application form through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. A completed form must contain the original signature of the buyer. Detailed instructions for completing this form are located in the Detailed Instructions for Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form VTR-130-UIF) or on the Texas Title Transfer website.
Besides these documents, to successfully transfer a vehicle’s title, both the seller and purchaser of the vehicle must show paperwork, including:
- A notarized bill of sale in some cases, or a power of attorney form
- Acceptable form of payment for all applicable fees
- Lien release (if applicable)
- Proof of insurance and inspection if none are on record for the vehicle
Once these documents are received and approved at the DMV, the transfer process is complete.
What if I Am Missing My Car’s Title in Texas?
You can apply for a duplicate vehicle title if you are missing your vehicle’s title. It’s possible to apply by mail or at a local regional service center in your county. Keep in mind that receiving a duplicate title will take a few weeks and it is not an overnight process. To complete this application, you will need proof of identity, proof of ownership through the VIN or an original release of lien letter. Additionally, you will need a completed VTR-34 form. You can find this form online or visit your loan DMV office to fill out the form in person.
My Car Title Was Signed But Never Transferred- What Now?
When a vehicle’s title is signed but not transferred, the vehicle’s seller didn’t transfer ownership or register the vehicle. The buyer’s information was not included on the title, which can be an issue. When a vehicle’s title is not transferred it is considered an open title. When transferring the title to your name after it has been signed over, you will likely need to pay a late fee, as you may have missed the 30 day window to transfer a car title in Texas.
How To Apply For An Auto Title Loan Once Your Texas Title is Transferred
In most cases, an applicant needs to have a car title in their name to apply for a Texas title loan. By law, you cannot use an asset as collateral for a loan if you are not the rightful owner. If you are still financing your vehicle, you may be able to secure a title loan if your car has enough positive equity.5
Once you have transferred the title to your name, you can conveniently apply for a title loan and access a portion of your vehicle’s value! When an individual is interested in applying for an auto title loan, the amount and the type of loan depend on how much their vehicle is worth.1 Max Cash Title Loans strives to make the approval process as simple as possible. It is just three easy steps for your convenience:2 5
- Firstly, begin the inquiry process about our loan application in Texas. You can reach out to us via phone or through our website. We will ask you about the loan amount you desire, specifics on your vehicle, and what your income is.
- Secondly, once in contact, a loan agent will explain things a little further and talk to you about your qualifications/pre-approval. If you meet the basic requirements for a title loan, the search for the right lender will begin.5
- Lastly, find out if you are approved! If you are, you can easily pick up your funds at one of the locations closest to you! Or, choose a direct deposit to your bank account.
Why Wait? Call Us Now! Learn How to Transfer a Car Title in Texas
It is reassuring to know that Max Cash Title Loans is here to help you get the cash you need! We will guide you and answer any questions you may have at no cost to you! Filling out an application only takes a few moments of your time. Apply now or give us a call! Why wait to see if you qualify for a car title loan in Texas?5