Texas vehicle title transfer in Austin

Short answer

For a Texas private purchase, the buyer files the title application through a county tax office. TxDMV says the vehicle must be titled in the buyer’s name within 30 days of the sale. Prepare the signed title, Form 130-U, proof of insurance, and any transaction-specific records before the visit.

Who this is for

Austin-area vehicle buyers, sellers, and gift recipients preparing a Texas title change through a county tax office.

Next steps

1. Identify whether the transaction is a private sale, gift, new-to-Texas transfer, lien release, or title-only request.
2. Compare the VIN and names on the title, then gather Form 130-U, insurance, and any lien or gift documents that apply.
3. File with the appropriate county tax office within the current official window; TxDMV states 30 days from the sale date for the buyer.
4. If you sold the vehicle, file a Vehicle Transfer Notification and keep its confirmation with the sale record.

Have this ready

• The signed Texas title with the sale date and required odometer information
• A completed Application for Texas Title and/or Registration, Form 130-U
• Proof of liability insurance plus any lien release or transaction-specific document
• A written record of the sale and the vehicle identification number

Common mistakes to avoid

• Leaving a private sale without a properly signed title
• Assuming an online registration renewal completes a title transfer
• Missing the 30-day buyer title window
• Failing to file a seller Vehicle Transfer Notification or keep the confirmation

Key facts

• In a Texas private purchase, the buyer files the title application at a county tax office within 30 days of the sale.
• Missing the 30-day window adds a late transfer penalty on top of the title fee.
• Travis County title work goes through the Travis County Tax Office, not Texas DPS.

Checked August 10, 2026 against the official source.

Common questions

What do I bring to the tax office?

The signed title, the completed 130-U application, proof of insurance, ID, and payment for the title fee and sales tax. A bill of sale helps when the price on the title looks off.

Official sources

• Travis County Tax Office vehicle title transfers
• TxDMV buying or selling a vehicle
• TxDMV Form 130-U

Last reviewed August 10, 2026 against the official source.

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