What Documents Do You Need to Sell a Car in Texas?

Selling a car in Texas requires specific paperwork to legally transfer ownership. Missing even one document can delay your sale or create legal problems down the road.

This guide covers every document you need, what to do if you're missing something, and how to make the process as smooth as possible.

Required Documents Checklist

1. Vehicle Title

When signing over your title in Texas:

• Sign in the correct spot - Sign where it says "Signature of Seller" (not the buyer section)
• Print your name - Also print your name where indicated
• Use the exact name on the title - If the title says "John A. Smith," don't sign "John Smith"
• Add the buyer's name - Fill in their legal name as it appears on their ID
• Record the odometer reading - Write the exact mileage at time of sale
• Date the sale - Use the actual date of the transaction

What If You Lost Your Title?

If you've lost your title, you have several options:

1. Apply for a duplicate title - Submit Form VTR-34 to your county tax office ($5.45 fee)
2. Sell to a licensed dealer - Dealers like Crescent Motors can process title paperwork for you
3. Use a bonded title - For titles that can't be obtained through normal channels

Getting a duplicate title typically takes 2-4 weeks by mail. Licensed dealers can often expedite this process.

What If There's a Lien on the Title?

If you still owe money on your car, the lienholder (bank or credit union) holds your title. You'll need to:

1. Pay off the loan balance
2. Request a lien release from your lender
3. Wait for the clear title (can take 10-30 days)

Selling with a loan: Many dealers can handle payoff directly with your lender, getting you a check for the difference if you have equity.

2. Valid Photo ID

Your ID must:

• Be current (not expired)
• Match the name on the title
• Include your photo and signature

3. Odometer Disclosure

Federal law requires an odometer disclosure for vehicles less than 20 years old. This protects buyers from odometer fraud.

In Texas, the odometer reading is recorded on:

• The title itself (in the designated section)
• Form VTR-41-A (if title space is insufficient)

The disclosure must include:

• The exact odometer reading
• Whether the reading reflects actual mileage
• If the odometer has rolled over (exceeded its limit)
• If the reading is known to be incorrect

4. Bill of Sale

While not legally required in Texas, a bill of sale protects both parties by documenting:

• The agreed-upon price
• The date ownership transferred
• "As-is" status (if applicable)
• Any warranties or guarantees

Keep a copy for your records - it's useful for tax purposes and resolving any disputes.

5. Release of Liability (Form VTR-310)

This is critically important and often overlooked. The Release of Liability notifies TxDMV that you've sold the vehicle.

How to file:

• Online: Submit at TxDMV eTAG (recommended - instant confirmation)
• By mail: Send Form VTR-310 to TxDMV
• In person: File at your county tax office

File this within 30 days of the sale to protect yourself.

Optional But Helpful Documents

Vehicle History Report

A Carfax or AutoCheck report builds trust with private buyers. Dealers will run their own reports.

Maintenance Records

Documentation of regular maintenance (oil changes, repairs, inspections) can increase your car's value by demonstrating good care.

Warranty Documentation

If any manufacturer or aftermarket warranties are still active and transferable, include this information.

Emission Test Results

In certain Texas counties, vehicles must pass emissions testing. Having recent test results can save the buyer time.

Selling to a Dealer vs. Private Party

Private Sale Requirements

You'll need all documents listed above, plus you're responsible for:

• Removing your license plates
• Filing the Release of Liability yourself
• Ensuring payment clears before signing over title

Selling to a Licensed Dealer

Dealers handle most paperwork for you:

• They process title transfers
• They file the Release of Liability
• They can work with your lienholder if you have a loan
• They can obtain duplicate titles

This is why many sellers prefer dealers - less paperwork, less hassle, and less risk of something going wrong.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Signing the title wrong - Sign exactly as your name appears, in the correct section
2. Forgetting to remove plates - Texas plates stay with you, not the vehicle
3. Not filing Release of Liability - Do this immediately after the sale
4. Accepting personal checks - Use cash, cashier's check, or verified bank transfer
5. Not keeping copies - Photograph or copy all documents before handing them over

Quick Reference: Document Checklist

The Bottom Line

Selling a car in Texas requires the title, valid ID, odometer disclosure, and Release of Liability at minimum. A bill of sale is strongly recommended.

If you want to skip the paperwork complexity, selling to a licensed dealer means they handle the documentation - you just need your title and ID to get paid.

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