Purchasing a vehicle from out of state can be a savvy move, potentially saving you money or offering access to a wider selection of cars. However, if you’re planning to register and drive that vehicle in Texas, there are specific steps you’ll need to follow to ensure a smooth process. This guide will walk you through the essential requirements for registering your out-of-state vehicle in the Lone Star State.
Step 1: Ensure Your Vehicle Meets Federal and State Requirements
Before you get too far into the registration process, it’s crucial to confirm that your newly acquired vehicle complies with all necessary federal and Texas state regulations. For vehicles originating from outside the U.S., this involves meeting the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. You can find detailed information regarding importation on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website. While this is primarily for international imports, understanding these standards is a good starting point, even for vehicles from other US states, as it highlights the importance of vehicle safety and compliance.
Step 2: Obtain a Texas Vehicle Inspection
Once you’ve brought your out-of-state vehicle into Texas, your next step is to get it inspected. Texas law mandates a vehicle safety inspection at any official state inspection station within your county of residence. For commercial vehicles, this is a standard procedure.
Furthermore, if you reside in one of the Texas counties with emissions requirements, you’ll also need to pass a vehicle emissions test. These counties include: Brazoria, Collin, Dallas, Denton, El Paso, Ellis, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Johnson, Kaufman, Montgomery, Parker, Rockwall, Tarrant, Travis, and Williamson. Remember to bring proof of vehicle insurance with you to the inspection station. You can locate a certified Safety Inspection Station near you for this process. After the inspection, you will receive a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) as proof of completion.
Step 3: Undergo a VIN Inspection
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection is another mandatory step to register your out-of-state vehicle in Texas. This inspection must be performed by a trained auto theft investigator, who is typically a law enforcement officer in Texas or a political subdivision of the state. Contact your local law enforcement agency to inquire if they have a trained investigator available. Alternatively, you can reach out to a Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority Grantee to find a qualified investigator. It’s worth noting that authorized personnel from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) are also permitted to conduct VIN inspections. Upon completion, you will be provided with a Law Enforcement Identification Number Inspection (Form VTR-68-A).
Step 4: Apply for Your Texas Title and Registration
With federal and state requirements met, inspections passed, and forms in hand, you’re ready to apply for a Texas title and registration. Gather the following documents and head to your county tax office:
- U.S. Department of Transportation Form HS-7 (if applicable, mainly for vehicles from outside the US) or documentation confirming customs entry and federal safety standards compliance or exemption.
- If applicable, an original bond release letter from the U.S. Department of Transportation if the vehicle was imported under bond.
- Your Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR).
- The completed inspection report section on Form VTR-68-A from your VIN inspection (unless exempt, such as for military personnel returning to Texas bases – see Military Packet for details).
- A filled out Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form 130-U).
- The vehicle’s odometer reading, if required for your vehicle’s age.
- Your vehicle ownership document. Ensure any documents not in English are accompanied by a certified English translation.
- Proof of vehicle insurance.
By completing these steps and providing the necessary documentation, you’ll be well on your way to legally driving your out-of-state vehicle in Texas. Remember to contact your local county tax office for any specific questions or additional requirements they may have.
